Description
These Mexican Sloppy Joes are a flavorful twist on the classic sandwich, featuring seasoned ground beef cooked with taco-inspired spices, tomato sauce, and salsa, topped with melted cheddar cheese. Quick and easy to prepare, this family-friendly recipe delivers a deliciously messy meal perfect for dinner.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tbsp homemade)
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- ½ cup salsa
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 hamburger buns
Optional Garnishes
- Sliced jalapeños
- Cilantro
Instructions
- Heat olive oil: Place a skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil, allowing it to warm up for about a minute.
- Sauté onions: Add the diced onion to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent, approximately 3 minutes.
- Brown the beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until fully browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Add seasonings and liquids: Stir in the taco seasoning, tomato sauce, and salsa until well combined with the beef mixture.
- Simmer mixture: Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to a sloppy joe consistency.
- Incorporate cheese: Mix in half of the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and evenly distributed throughout the beef mixture.
- Assemble sandwiches: Spoon the beef mixture generously onto the bottom halves of the hamburger buns.
- Add toppings: Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top of the beef mixture, add sliced jalapeños and cilantro if desired, then cover with the top halves of the buns.
- Serve immediately: Serve the Mexican Sloppy Joes while hot for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- Add black beans or corn to the beef mixture for extra texture and nutrition.
- Use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a spicier flavor.
- Leftover filling is perfect for making tacos or burritos the next day.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired