Mac & Cheese Sloppy Joes are the ultimate comfort food mash-up, combining the classic flavors of Sloppy Joes with creamy, cheesy mac & cheese. This hearty dish starts with seasoned ground beef cooked with onions and green bell peppers, then mixed with ketchup, barbecue sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and brown sugar for that signature Sloppy Joe flavor. The addition of shredded cheddar cheese and cooked macaroni takes this dish to the next level, making it rich, creamy, and utterly satisfying. Serve these Mac & Cheese Sloppy Joes on toasted hamburger buns for a meal that's perfect for cozy dinners, game day gatherings, or anytime you're craving something deliciously indulgent.
Mac & Cheese Sloppy Joes are the ultimate comfort food mash-up, combining the classic flavors of Sloppy Joes with creamy, cheesy mac & cheese. This hearty dish starts with seasoned ground beef cooked with onions and green bell peppers, then mixed with ketchup, barbecue sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and brown sugar for that signature Sloppy Joe flavor.
INGREDIENTS
- Ground beef: 1 lb, cooked and browned, forming the savory base of the Sloppy Joes.
- Chopped onion: ½ cup, for a mild, sweet flavor.
- Chopped green bell pepper: ½ cup, adding a slight crunch and freshness.
- Ketchup: 1 cup, for tangy, sweet flavor.
- Barbecue sauce: ¼ cup, adding a smoky depth to the sauce.
- Worcestershire sauce: 1 tbsp, for a savory, umami kick.
- Brown sugar: 1 tbsp, balancing the tanginess of the sauce with a hint of sweetness.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: 1 cup, for a rich, cheesy finish.
- Cooked macaroni: 1 cup, adding creaminess and texture.
- Hamburger buns: 4, serving as the perfect vessel for the Sloppy Joe mixture.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- In a large skillet, brown 1 lb of ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
- Step 2:
- Add ½ cup chopped onion and ½ cup chopped green bell pepper to the skillet. Cook until softened.
- Step 3:
- Stir in 1 cup ketchup, ¼ cup barbecue sauce, 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce, and 1 tbsp brown sugar. Mix well.
- Step 4:
- Sprinkle in 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted and combined.
- Step 5:
- Fold in 1 cup cooked macaroni, ensuring it's well coated with the cheesy beef mixture.
- Step 6:
- Spoon the mixture onto 4 hamburger buns and serve hot. Enjoy!
Serving and Storage Tips
- These Sloppy Joes are best served hot and fresh. They're perfect for a cozy dinner or a game day feast.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave or a skillet before serving.
Helpful Notes
- You can customize this recipe by adding different cheeses, such as pepper jack or mozzarella, for a unique twist.
- For a lighter version, use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Chef Guy Fieri suggests adding a splash of hot sauce to the mixture for a spicy kick.
- Chef Rachael Ray recommends toasting the hamburger buns in butter for extra flavor and crunch.