Bacon Beer Cheese Sloppy Joes

Why Make This Recipe

Bacon Beer Cheese Sloppy Joes are the ultimate comfort food. This tasty twist on the classic sloppy joe combines juicy ground beef, crispy bacon, and gooey cheddar cheese, all brought together with the rich flavors of beer. It’s perfect for game day, family dinners, or any time you want a delicious, hearty meal that is easy to make and sure to please everyone.

How to Make Bacon Beer Cheese Sloppy Joes

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
• 8 slices bacon, chopped
• 1/2 yellow onion, chopped
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 cup beer (Guinness)
• 1/2 cup beef broth
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, cubed
• 6 brioche buns

Directions

1. In a large skillet, cook the bacon on medium-high heat for 2–3 minutes until crispy but still bendable.
2. Remove the bacon from the pan and drain all but two tablespoons of the fat. Add the chopped onions and cook for 4–5 minutes until softened.
3. Add the ground beef to the pan, reduce the heat to medium, and cook, breaking it apart but keeping some chunks the size of a raspberry or small grape. Cook for 5–6 minutes until well browned.
4. Stir in the ketchup, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, beer, and beef broth. Cook for 5–6 minutes until the sauce starts to evaporate and becomes ‘sloppy.’
5. Reduce the mixture to a consistency where spoonfuls hold their shape without spreading more than half an inch when stacked.
6. Add cheddar cheese cubes and cooked bacon crumbles to the mixture a minute before serving. Stir slightly to create melted pockets of cheese.
7. Toast the brioche buns. Spoon the sloppy joe mixture onto the buns and top with additional bacon, if desired.

How to Serve Bacon Beer Cheese Sloppy Joes

Serve these delicious sloppy joes on toasted brioche buns with a side of crispy fries or a fresh salad. They are perfect for a casual gathering or a quick weeknight dinner. You can add pickles, jalapeños, or extra cheese on top if you like some added flavor.

How to Store Bacon Beer Cheese Sloppy Joes

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm them in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. If you want to freeze them, place the mixture in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Tips to Make Bacon Beer Cheese Sloppy Joes

• For a spicier kick, add some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture.
• Use different types of cheese like pepper jack for a bit more heat or Gouda for a smoky flavor.
• If you want to make this dish healthier, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef.

Variation

You can easily change the flavors by using different types of beer or adding more vegetables, like bell peppers or mushrooms, for extra texture and taste.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of this recipe.

What type of beer is best for this recipe?
Guinness is recommended for its rich flavor, but you can use any stout or ale that you enjoy.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Use plant-based ground meat and substitute the bacon with vegetarian bacon or omit it altogether. You can also add more veggies for extra flavor.