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French onion beef sloppy joes topped with melted cheese, served on toasted buns with caramelized onions and savory beef filling, garnished with parsley.

Comforting French Onion Beef Sloppy Joes with Melted Cheese Recipe – Easy Comfort Food Dinner Idea

This comforting French onion beef sloppy joes recipe is a savory and cheesy dish made with caramelized onions, seasoned beef, and melted cheese served on toasted buns. Perfect for family dinners, weeknight meals, or anytime you crave cozy comfort food.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Comfort Food, Main Course
Cuisine American, Fusion
Servings 6 sandwiches
Calories 400 kcal

Equipment

  • Cast iron skillet or heavy pan
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Sharp knife and cutting board
  • Toaster or oven for buns

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
  • 2 large onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 tbsp butter or olive oil
  • ½ cup beef broth
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp fresh thyme (or ½ tsp dried)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 4–6 sandwich buns, toasted
  • 4–6 sandwich buns, toasted
  • Optional garnish: fresh parsley or thyme sprigs

Instructions
 

  • Caramelize Onions: Heat butter in skillet over medium-low. Add onions and cook slowly for 20–25 minutes until golden and sweet.
  • Brown Beef: Push onions aside, add ground beef, and cook until browned. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme.
  • Deglaze: Pour in beef broth and Worcestershire, scraping up browned bits. Simmer briefly.
  • Combine: Mix onions and beef together, letting flavors meld.
  • Melt Cheese: Sprinkle cheese over mixture, cover pan briefly until melted.
  • Assemble: Spoon filling onto toasted buns. Garnish with herbs if desired. Serve hot.

Notes

  • Onion Tip: Don’t rush caramelization—it’s the flavor foundation.
  • Cheese Choices: Gruyère for authentic French onion flair, mozzarella for stretch.
  • Bun Tip: Toast buns to prevent sogginess. Brioche adds richness.
  • Make Ahead: Filling can be refrigerated for 2 days or frozen up to 2 months. Reheat and assemble fresh.
  • Variation: Swap beef for turkey, chicken, or mushrooms for lighter or vegetarian options.
Keyword caramelized onion beef, cheesy sloppy joes, comfort food sandwich, French onion sloppy joes