Save A hearty crowd-pleasing dip that brings all the classic flavors of a Sloppy Joe, making it a perfect addition to parties, game days, or casual gatherings.
I first made this dip for a weekend get-together and it was gone in minutes. Everyone loved dunking bread and chips into the cheesy, saucy goodness and asked for the recipe afterward.
Ingredients
- Ground beef: 1 lb (450 g), 80/20 recommended
- Yellow onion: 1 small, finely diced
- Green bell pepper: 1 small, finely diced
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Tomato sauce: 1 cup (240 ml)
- Tomato paste: 2 tbsp
- Worcestershire sauce: 1 tbsp
- Yellow mustard: 1 tbsp
- Light brown sugar: 2 tbsp
- Smoked paprika: 1 tsp
- Chili powder: 1/2 tsp
- Kosher salt: 1/2 tsp
- Ground black pepper: 1/4 tsp
- Shredded sharp cheddar cheese: 1 1/2 cups (170 g), divided
- Pickled jalapeños: Sliced, optional
- Chopped scallions: Optional
- Toasted slider buns, baguette slices or sturdy tortilla chips: For serving
Instructions
- Brown the beef:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Sauté vegetables:
- Add diced onion and green bell pepper. Sauté for about 3 to 4 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook 1 minute more.
- Combine sauces and seasoning:
- Stir in tomato sauce, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, brown sugar, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt and black pepper. Mix well.
- Simmer:
- Let the mixture simmer for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened and saucy. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Add cheese:
- Remove from heat, then stir in 1 cup (115 g) of shredded cheddar cheese until melted and combined.
- Top and broil:
- Transfer mixture to a serving dish or oven-safe skillet and sprinkle remaining 1/2 cup (55 g) cheddar evenly on top.
- Broil:
- Optional: Broil for 2 to 3 minutes, until cheese is bubbly and lightly golden.
- Garnish and serve:
- Garnish with pickled jalapeños and chopped scallions if desired. Serve warm with toasted slider buns, baguette slices or tortilla chips.
Save This dip instantly reminds me of cozy family movie nights where everyone gathered around for snacks and laughs. It's always the first dish to disappear at home gatherings.
Pairings & Serving Ideas
Pair this dip with a crisp lager or root beer for classic diner vibes. For dipping, toasted slider buns, hearty chips, or baguette slices work best to scoop up the saucy goodness.
Allergen Information
This appetizer contains dairy due to cheese and may contain gluten depending on your choice of bread or chips. Worcestershire sauce contains soy so check labels for allergies.
Required Tools
You'll need a large skillet, wooden spoon or spatula, a knife and cutting board for prepping, and an oven-safe serving dish if broiling.
Save Enjoy this dip piping hot straight from the oven. It’s sure to become a regular favorite for gatherings!
Cooking Questions
- → Can I use a different meat besides beef?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for beef for a lighter option.
- → How can I make this dip spicier?
Add a pinch of cayenne or extra pickled jalapeños to boost the heat.
- → What are the best serving options?
Serve with toasted slider buns, baguette slices, or sturdy tortilla chips for dipping.
- → Can I prepare this dip ahead of time?
The mixture can be made in advance, then reheated and topped with cheese before serving.
- → Are there allergen concerns?
Contains dairy and possibly gluten or soy. Check all ingredient labels for allergens.
- → How long does this dish take to make?
Total time is about 35 minutes, including prep and cooking.