Sloppy Joe Grilled Cheese on Texas Toast

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this recipe turns two nostalgic favorites into one epic meal. The sloppy joe filling is rich and tangy with a sweet kick, while the thick Texas Toast holds it all together and gets beautifully crisp on the griddle. With melted cheese layered in every bite, it’s a satisfying, hearty dinner that I can pull together in just 30 minutes.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1 small onion, diced

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 tablespoon BBQ seasoning (or any rub you like)

• 1 teaspoon each salt, pepper, and garlic blend

• 1/2 cup ketchup

• 2 tablespoons yellow mustard

• 2 tablespoons brown sugar

• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

• 1 package frozen garlic Texas Toast (8 slices)

• 8 slices American cheese (or cheddar)

Directions

1. I heat olive oil on a griddle or large skillet over medium heat, then add the diced onions and season with a little salt, pepper, and garlic powder. I cook them until soft and fragrant.

2. I add the ground beef directly over the onions, sprinkle in the BBQ seasoning, and cook until browned. I break up the meat as it cooks and mix it all together once it’s done.

3. To make it sloppy, I stir in the ketchup, mustard, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce. I let it simmer for about 5–7 minutes until the mixture thickens up and gets rich and sticky.

4. While the filling simmers, I place the frozen garlic Texas Toast slices on the griddle. I toast them for 2–3 minutes per side until they’re golden and crisp.

5. To build the sandwiches, I place a slice of cheese on each piece of toast. I spoon a generous amount of the sloppy joe mixture on half of them, then top with another slice of cheese and the remaining toast.

6. I grill each sandwich for another 1–2 minutes per side on low heat, just until the cheese is melted and everything is hot.

7. I serve them warm, sliced in half for easier handling—and yes, I always have napkins nearby!

Servings and timing

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4 sandwiches

Variations

When I want to switch things up, I use shredded cheddar or pepper jack instead of American cheese for a sharper flavor. I’ve also added sliced pickles or jalapeños for a little crunch or heat. If I want a smoky twist, I use smoked paprika or chipotle ketchup in the filling. For a leaner option, I sometimes substitute ground turkey or plant-based meat.

Storage/Reheating

Leftover sloppy joe filling can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. I reheat it in a skillet or microwave before building a fresh sandwich. Assembled sandwiches don’t store well, so I only grill what I plan to eat right away to keep the toast from getting soggy.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, I often make the sloppy joe filling ahead and store it in the fridge. Then I just toast the bread and assemble the sandwiches when I’m ready to eat.

What kind of cheese melts best?

American cheese gives that classic gooey melt, but cheddar, Colby Jack, or mozzarella also work great depending on the flavor I want.

Can I use regular bread instead of Texas Toast?

I can, but Texas Toast adds a thick, buttery crunch that holds up better to the sloppy filling. If using regular bread, I toast it first to avoid sogginess.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

I don’t freeze the assembled sandwiches, but I can freeze the sloppy joe filling for up to 2 months. I thaw and reheat it before using.

What should I serve with these?

I usually pair them with fries, coleslaw, or a simple green salad. Chips and pickles on the side also make it feel like a diner-style meal.

Conclusion

Sloppy Joe Grilled Cheese on Texas Toast is the ultimate comfort sandwich. With crispy garlic toast, cheesy layers, and a saucy beef filling, it hits every craving all at once. Whether I’m feeding the family or treating myself to something extra satisfying, this recipe always delivers on flavor and nostalgia.