Sloppy Joe Sliders

Sloppy Joe sliders are a fun, flavorful twist on the classic American sandwich. Made with seasoned ground beef simmered in a tangy tomato-based sauce and served on soft slider buns, these bite-sized sandwiches are perfect for parties, potlucks, game day, or easy weeknight dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect for feeding a crowd or serving as an appetizer
• Quick and easy to prepare with minimal ingredients
• Fun, handheld size that appeals to both kids and adults
• Classic comfort food flavor in a convenient form
• Easily adaptable with different cheeses, buns, and toppings

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ground beef
• Yellow onion, finely chopped
• Garlic, minced
• Tomato sauce or ketchup
• Tomato paste
• Brown sugar
• Yellow mustard
• Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and black pepper
• Slider buns (such as Hawaiian rolls or mini sesame buns)
• Cheese slices (American, cheddar, or provolone)
• Butter (for brushing buns)
• Optional: chopped bell peppers, pickles, or fresh parsley for garnish

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking dish with parchment or lightly grease it.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess grease.
3. Add chopped onion and garlic to the skillet. Cook until softened, about 3–4 minutes.
4. Stir in tomato sauce or ketchup, tomato paste, brown sugar, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 8–10 minutes until thickened.
5. Slice the slider buns in half horizontally, keeping the tops and bottoms intact.
6. Place the bottom halves of the buns into the prepared baking dish.
7. Spoon the sloppy joe mixture evenly over the buns. Top with cheese slices.
8. Add the top halves of the buns. Brush the tops with melted butter.
9. Cover with foil and bake for 15–20 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 5–7 minutes until tops are golden brown.
10. Remove from oven, slice into individual sliders, and serve warm.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 12 sliders
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Spicy version: Add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of chili flakes to the beef mixture
• Tex-Mex style: Use taco seasoning and pepper jack cheese
• Vegetarian version: Substitute ground beef with plant-based meat or lentils
• Open-faced sliders: Serve on toasted baguette slices without the top bun
• Kid-friendly: Skip onions or finely grate them to keep the texture smooth
• Mini sloppy joe cups: Use biscuit dough pressed into muffin tins for single-serve portions

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days
• Freeze: Store the meat mixture separately in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months
• Reheat: Microwave individual sliders or warm in a 300°F oven for 10–15 minutes
• Tip: Keep extra filling separate to assemble fresh sliders as needed

FAQs

What type of buns work best for sliders?

Soft rolls like Hawaiian buns or mini brioche buns work well because they hold together and soak up flavor without falling apart.

Can I prepare the meat mixture ahead of time?

Yes. The sloppy joe filling can be made 1–2 days ahead and stored in the refrigerator until ready to assemble and bake.

Is it necessary to bake the sliders?

Baking helps meld the flavors and melt the cheese, but you can also serve them freshly assembled if preferred.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, by using gluten-free buns and checking that your sauces (especially Worcestershire) are gluten-free.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. Use a larger baking dish or prepare two batches if serving a crowd.

What’s the best cheese to use?

American, cheddar, provolone, or Monterey Jack all melt well and pair nicely with the meat mixture.

How do I keep the buns from getting soggy?

Allow the meat to thicken fully, and toast the bottom buns lightly before assembly if needed.

Can I freeze assembled sliders?

It is not recommended as the buns may become soggy. Freeze only the meat mixture.

Are sloppy joe sliders suitable for kids?

Yes. The sweet and tangy flavor is generally well-loved by children. Reduce spice if needed.

What sides go well with these sliders?

Serve with potato chips, coleslaw, baked beans, or a simple green salad.

Conclusion

Sloppy Joe sliders are a playful, satisfying take on a comfort food favorite. With their bold flavor, tender beef filling, and soft, golden buns, they’re sure to be a hit at any gathering or dinner table. Easy to customize and make ahead, this recipe will quickly become a go-to for family meals and entertaining alike.

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