Quick & Easy Sloppy Joe Sliders
These Sloppy Joe Sliders bring all the flavor of a traditional Sloppy Joe in a bite-sized, party-perfect format. Sweet rolls are layered with savory beef, melty cheese, crispy onions, and brushed with seasoned butter for a golden finish.Simple to prep and impossible to resist!
Equipment
- 1 Stove/Oven
- 1 Cast Iron Skillet or Frying Pan
- 1 (9x13-inch) baking dish
- 1 Silicone Basting Brush
- 1 Serrated Bread Knife
- 1 Cheese Grater (if using block cheese)
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 medium yellow onion finely chopped
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 –2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce adjust to taste
- 1 8-ounce can tomato sauce
- ¼ cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 2 tablespoons barbecue sauce
- 1 12-count package King’s Hawaiian Sweet Rolls
- 6 slices American cheese
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup crispy fried onions such as French’s
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
Instructions
- Sauté the Beef and Onions: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and chopped onions. Season with salt, pepper, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Cook for 6–8 minutes, breaking up the meat as it browns, until the beef is fully cooked and onions are soft. Drain excess grease.
- Build the Sloppy Joe Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium-low.Stir in the minced garlic and Worcestershire sauce, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the tomato sauce, ketchup, mustard, and barbecue sauce. Mix thoroughly, then let the mixture simmer uncovered for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.
- Prepare the Roll Base: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Using a serrated bread knife, carefully slice the Hawaiian rolls horizontally to create a top and bottom layer. Place the bottom half in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Layer the Sliders: Lay slices of American cheese evenly over the bottom buns. Spoon the warm sloppy joe mixture on top, spreading it out to cover all the rolls.Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the meat, then top with crispy fried onions for extra crunch and flavor.
- Butter the Tops and Bake: Place the top half of the rolls over the filling. In a small bowl, melt the butter in the microwave. Stir in garlic powder and onion powder. Use a silicone brush to evenly coat the tops of the rolls with the seasoned butter. Finish by sprinkling sesame seeds over the tops.
- Bake and Serve: Bake in the preheated oven for 10–15 minutes, or until the tops are golden and slightly crisp.Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving warm.
Notes
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the meat mixture a day in advance and refrigerate it. Reheat slightly before assembling.
- Cheese Options: Swap American cheese with mozzarella or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
- Customize It: Add jalapeños, diced pickles, or even bacon bits between the layers for extra flair.
- Leftovers: Store leftover sliders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 325°F to maintain texture.
- Feeding a Crowd? Double the recipe and use a larger sheet pan—perfect for parties or potlucks.
