Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it into small pieces. Drain excess fat.
Step 2: Sauté Onions & Garlic
- Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet. Cook until softened (~5 minutes).
Step 3: Make the Sloppy Joe Sauce
- Stir in ketchup , tomato sauce , brown sugar , Worcestershire , mustard powder , smoked paprika , and garlic powder .
- Season with salt and pepper . Simmer for 10–12 minutes , stirring occasionally, until thickened.
- Taste and adjust sweetness/spice as needed.
Step 4: Prep the Texas Toast
- Butter both sides of each bread slice with melted butter.
- Toast the bread :
- Oven method : Place on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 5–7 minutes until golden.
- Skillet method : Cook in a greased skillet over medium heat until crispy and toasted.
Step 5: Assemble the Sandwiches
- Spread a thin layer of mayonnaise or mustard on the toasted bread (optional).
- Divide the Sloppy Joe filling between the bread slices.
- Add cheese slices if using—cover and let melt for 1–2 minutes.
- Top with pickles or coleslaw, then close the sandwich.
Step 6: Serve Hot
- Let the sandwiches rest for 1–2 minutes to meld flavors.
- Serve immediately with a side of fries , coleslaw , or baked beans .
Customization Ideas
- Cheesy Goodness : Add cheddar, pepper jack, or mozzarella cheese.
- Spicy Kick : Stir in a dash of hot sauce or diced jalapeños.
- BBQ Twist : Use BBQ sauce instead of ketchup for a smoky flavor.
- Veggie-Lover’s : Add sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers to the filling.
Tips for Success
- Thick Bread Matters : Use at least 1-inch-thick slices to prevent sogginess.
- Adjust the Sauce : For a tangier flavor, add a splash of vinegar.
- Let It Simmer : Simmer the sauce longer for deeper flavors.
- Keep Warm : If prepping in advance, keep the filling warm in a slow cooker.
Nutrition (Per Serving)
- Calories : ~600
- Fat : 35g
- Carbs : 40g
- Protein : 30g
Why It’s a Winner
These Texas Toast Sloppy Joes elevate the classic diner sandwich with a hearty, buttery bread base that soaks up every last drop of the savory filling. The combination of crispy bread and gooey cheese is pure comfort food magic!
Pro Secrets
- Double the Sauce : Freeze extra Sloppy Joe filling for later.
- Fried Texas Toast : Dip the buttered bread in egg wash and fry in oil for extra crunch.
- Make It Keto : Use cauliflower crust bread or lettuce wraps.
Final Touches
- Garnish : Sprinkle with chopped green onions or a drizzle of honey mustard.
- Serving Hack : Serve in a paper bag like diner-style for extra authenticity!
Your New Favorite Comfort Food! These sandwiches are the ultimate mashup of Southern classics—perfect for feeding a crowd or treating yourself.
Let us know if you try this—tag us in your photos! 🍔✨
Enjoy! 🍳