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Cozy Smash Burger Sloppy Joes Sandwiches

smash burger sloppy joes sandwich - featured image

A comforting and satisfying sandwich combining crispy smash burger patties with tangy sloppy joe sauce, perfect for quick and cozy meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450 g) ground beef (80/20 blend)
  • 1/2 pound (225 g) ground beef for sloppy joe sauce
  • 1 yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup (240 ml) tomato sauce
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 4 burger buns (potato buns preferred)
  • 4 cheese slices (optional, American or cheddar)
  • Butter, for toasting buns

Instructions

  1. Prepare the sloppy joe sauce: In a medium bowl, combine tomato sauce, ketchup, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until combined and set aside.
  2. Cook onions and garlic: Heat butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  3. Add ground beef for sauce: Add 1/2 pound ground beef to the skillet with onions and garlic. Break apart gently and cook until browned but still chunky, about 4-5 minutes. Pour in sloppy joe sauce mixture and stir. Simmer on low for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  4. Prepare smash burger patties: Divide 1 pound ground beef into 4 equal balls. Heat cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until very hot. Place one ball on skillet and smash down firmly to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cook without moving for 2-3 minutes until edges are crispy and brown. Flip and cook another 1-2 minutes. Repeat with remaining balls.
  5. Add cheese (optional): Place a slice of cheese on each patty after flipping to melt.
  6. Toast buns: Spread butter on cut sides of buns and toast in skillet until golden and crisp, about 1-2 minutes.
  7. Assemble sandwiches: Spoon a generous amount of sloppy joe mixture onto bottom bun, place smash burger patty on top, then add top bun.
  8. Serve immediately while hot.

Notes

Keep beef cold before smashing for best crust. Do not overcrowd skillet to maintain heat and crispiness. Toast buns with butter to prevent sogginess. Simmer sloppy joe sauce gently to develop flavor without burning sugars. Can make sauce ahead and refrigerate. For gluten-free, use gluten-free buns; for dairy-free, omit cheese or use plant-based alternative.

Nutrition

Keywords: smash burger, sloppy joes, sandwich, comfort food, quick dinner, easy recipe, ground beef, cozy meal