What is the difference between Sloppy Joes and Sloppy Janes?

Sloppy Joes typically use lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef, and often have a slightly sweeter or lighter flavor profile. These French Onion Beef Sloppy Joes lean fully into rich, savory territory.

What exactly is a sloppy joe?

It’s a saucy ground meat sandwich, usually beef, mixed with tomato or savory sauce and served on a bun. This recipe gives it a French onion twist for a next-level upgrade.

Is French onion like sour cream and onion?

Not really. French onion is built on caramelized onions and savory beef broth, while sour cream and onion is more tangy and creamy—different vibes!

What gives Sloppy Joes their flavor?

Traditionally, it’s a mix of ketchup, mustard, and Worcestershire. In French Onion Beef Sloppy Joes, it’s all about onions, beef broth, Worcestershire, and cheese.

Is a sloppy joe just Bolognese?

Not quite. Bolognese is a slow-cooked Italian meat sauce served with pasta. Sloppy Joes are quicker, saucier, and served on a bun—plus, this one brings in French flavors!

What is the fancy name for Sloppy Joes?

Some like to call them “braised beef sandwiches” or “gourmet joes,” but we’re sticking with French Onion Beef Sloppy Joes because they speak for themselves!

Irresistible French Onion Beef Sloppy Joes

Description

These French Onion Beef Sloppy Joes combine caramelized onions, savory ground beef, and melty cheese on toasted buns for a rich and comforting meal.

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb ground beef (80/20)
2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
2 tbsp butter
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1/4 cup beef broth (or French onion soup)
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp black pepper
Salt, to taste
4 brioche or Kaiser rolls
4 slices provolone, Swiss, or Gruyère cheese

Instructions

Heat a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add butter and olive oil, then the sliced onions. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt and cook for 25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden-brown.
Push onions to the side and add ground beef. Break it apart and brown it fully. Mix onions back in once beef is cooked.
Add Worcestershire sauce, beef broth, garlic powder, pepper, and salt. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until slightly thickened.
Reduce heat and place cheese slices on top. Cover and let melt for 2–3 minutes.
Toast buns in a dry skillet or under the broiler for 1–2 minutes. Pile the beef mixture onto the buns and serve immediately.

Notes

Caramelize the onions slowly for best flavor. Use high-quality cheese and consider garlic butter for toasted buns. The mixture can be made ahead and stored for easy reheating.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 sandwich
Calories: 530
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 680mg
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Unsaturated Fat: 16g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 28g
Cholesterol: 95mg

Keywords: French Onion Sloppy Joes, beef, caramelized onions, cheese, comfort food