Smokey Sloppy Joe and Provolone

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Get ready for a flavor-packed twist on a classic favorite! These Smokey Sloppy Joes with Provolone are a delicious and satisfying dish perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. The rich, smoky ground beef mixture is served over toasted bread and topped with gooey melted provolone, creating an irresistible combination that’s easy to make and even easier to devour.

The Ultimate Comfort Food

Smokey Sloppy Joes take the nostalgic flavors we all love and elevate them with a smoky, savory kick. The hearty, saucy beef mixture is loaded with barbecue-inspired spices and sauces, while the provolone cheese melts into a creamy, tangy topping that brings everything together.

Whether you’re looking for a fun dinner idea for the family or a dish that’s great for game day, these Sloppy Joes will hit the spot. Serve them open-faced for a rustic presentation or sandwich-style for a classic approach. Either way, it’s a meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

Ingredients for Smokey Sloppy Joe and Provolone

To make this rich and flavorful dish, you’ll need a few simple ingredients that combine to create a comforting, smoky, and cheesy masterpiece.

• Ground Beef – The hearty base of the dish. Choose lean ground beef for a rich flavor without excess grease.
• Sloppy Joe Sauce – A mixture of ketchup, barbecue sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and spices gives the meat its signature sweet, tangy, and smoky flavor.
• Smoked Paprika – Adds a hint of smokiness that takes the flavor profile to the next level.
• Garlic and Onion – Sautéed for a flavorful base to enhance the meat mixture.
• Thick Slices of Bread – Use sturdy bread like French or Italian loaf slices to hold up to the saucy topping. Toasting them adds structure and a satisfying crunch.
• Provolone Cheese – The perfect cheese for melting, adding a creamy and tangy finish.
• Butter (optional) – Use for toasting the bread for extra richness.

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How to Make Smokey Sloppy Joe and Provolone

Follow these simple steps to create a delicious meal that’s bursting with smoky, cheesy goodness.

Step 1:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.

Step 2:
In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant and softened (about 2-3 minutes).

Step 3:
Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon or spatula as it cooks. Cook until browned and fully cooked through. Drain any excess grease.

Step 4:
Stir in the ketchup, barbecue sauce, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together and thicken slightly.

Step 5:
Meanwhile, lightly butter both sides of your bread slices (if desired) and toast them under the broiler or in a skillet until golden brown. Arrange the toasted bread slices on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 6:
Spoon the smoky Sloppy Joe mixture generously onto each slice of bread. Be sure to cover the surface with the saucy goodness.

Step 7:
Top each loaded slice with a generous amount of shredded provolone cheese.

Step 8:
Bake the prepared slices in the preheated oven for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.

Step 9:
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Serve warm and enjoy the irresistible combination of smoky, cheesy, and savory flavors!

How Long to Bake Smokey Sloppy Joe and Provolone

The baking time for this dish is quick and straightforward, as the goal is to melt the cheese to gooey perfection while slightly crisping the edges.

Melt and Brown Cheese – Bake for 5-7 minutes in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C). Keep an eye on it to ensure the cheese melts evenly and gets slightly golden without overcooking.

If you’re using a broiler to achieve a more golden top, monitor it closely, as it can brown within 1-2 minutes.

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How to Store Leftovers

Got leftovers? Don’t worry—they store beautifully and are easy to reheat for another indulgent meal.

• Refrigerator – Place the leftover Sloppy Joe slices in an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating – Reheat in the oven at a low temperature (around 325°F/160°C) until warmed through, or use a toaster oven for added crispiness.
• Freezer – Freeze the cooked Sloppy Joe topping in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating and assembling fresh slices with cheese.

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Tips for Perfect Smokey Sloppy Joe and Provolone

Here are some helpful tips to ensure your dish turns out amazing every time:

• Choose Sturdy Bread – Opt for bread like French baguette or sourdough to hold up to the saucy filling. Avoid soft sandwich bread, which may become soggy.
• Adjust the Smokiness – Increase the smoked paprika or add a dash of liquid smoke for a bolder smoky flavor.
• Make It Your Own – Add toppings like sliced pickles, jalapeños, or crispy fried onions for extra texture and flavor.
• Cheese Options – If provolone isn’t available, mozzarella or Monterey Jack make great substitutes for their melty consistency.
• Serve Fresh – For the best experience, enjoy the Sloppy Joes fresh out of the oven while the cheese is hot and melty!

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