Slow Cooker Chili Cheese Sloppy Joes Recipe

This recipe is my go-to comfort food because it transforms classic sloppy joes into a cheesy, flavor-packed delight that’s super easy to throw together in a slow cooker. Plus, the combination of tender beef and melty cheddar on a toasted bun is absolutely irresistible and perfect for sharing with friends at a casual get-together!

Creating thoughtful comfort food brings me a lot of joy, and my Slow Cooker Chili Cheese Sloppy Joes are a prime example of that. By simmering ground beef with chopped onions, green bell pepper, and chili beans, you make a hearty, homey meal that almost begs for a burger bun.

I think the touch of chili powder and cumin adds depth, while shredded cheddar cheese makes it indulgent and delightful (and if it falls out the sides of the bun, that’s just more cheesy goodness to go around).

Ingredients

Beef that is ground: This is a protein powerhouse—adds a rich, beefy flavor.

The onion furnishes the dish with both sweetness and depth.

Bell pepper, green: Brings crunch and bright color.

Garlic: Imparts fragrant and piquant tones.

Beans chilies: Source of protein, fiber, and heat.

Sauce made from tomatoes: Bestows tangy richness, unites flavors.

Ketchup: Tangy and sweet, balances spices.

Chili powder: Provides spiciness and smoky depth.

Cheddar cheese, when in shredded form, can be a creamy topper that may melt easily and beautifully.

Ingredient Quantities

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• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 cup onion, chopped
• 1 cup green bell pepper, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 ounces) chili beans, undrained
• 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 hamburger buns
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

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Instructions

1. In a skillet set to medium heat, brown the ground beef. Drain excess fats.

2. Chopped onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic are added to the skillet containing the beef. The recipe calls for cooking these ingredients together for 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

3. Move the mixture of beef and vegetables into a slow cooker.

4. Place the following into the slow cooker: the undrained chili beans, tomato sauce, ketchup, chili powder, ground cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.

5. Place the slow cooker cover over the cooker and set it to cook on low heat for 4-6 hours or on high heat for 2-3 hours, remembering to stir it occasionally.

6. Toast the hamburger buns lightly, if you wish, about 15 minutes before serving.

7. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese into the slow cooker and mix until melted and well combined.

8. Taste and, if necessary, adjust the seasoning by adding more salt and pepper.

9. On the bottom halves of the hamburger buns, spoon the chili cheese mixture.

10. Serve promptly and relish the delightful, chaotic experience that is the Slow Cooker Chili Cheese Sloppy Joes topped with the last half of the bun!

Equipment Needed

1. Skillet
2. Stirring spoon
3. Cutting board
4. Chef’s knife
5. Garlic press (optional, for mincing garlic)
6. Slow cooker
7. Can opener
8. Measuring cups
9. Measuring spoons
10. Ladle or serving spoon
11. Toaster or oven (for toasting buns)

FAQ

• Q: Can I use a different type of meat?
  A: Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for ground beef if you prefer a leaner option.
• Q: How can I make this recipe spicier?
  A: Add chopped jalapeños or increase the amount of chili powder to suit your taste.
• Q: Is there a vegetarian version possible?
  A: Yes, you can use a plant-based ground meat substitute and add more beans or vegetables.
• Q: Can I prepare this in advance?
  A: Absolutely! You can cook the mixture the day before and store it in the fridge. Reheat it in the slow cooker before serving.
• Q: What sides go well with this dish?
  A: Coleslaw, potato salad, or corn on the cob complement the Sloppy Joes perfectly.
• Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
  A: Yes, store in an airtight container for up to three months. Thaw and reheat before serving.

Substitutions and Variations

Ground turkey or ground chicken can take the place of ground beef.
Shallots or leeks can replace onion for a milder flavor.
Red or yellow bell pepper can take the place of green bell pepper, with the advantage of being sweeter.
Black beans or kidney beans can be used in place of chili beans. Either can be used undrained.
A blend of cayenne pepper and paprika can replace chili powder for a different heat profile.

Pro Tips

1. Sauté the Vegetables Before adding the onion, green bell pepper, and garlic to the ground beef, consider sautéing them separately for a few minutes in a bit of olive oil. This can enhance their natural sweetness and flavor, adding more depth to the dish.

2. Spice Enhancement For more robust flavor, toast the chili powder, cumin, and paprika for a minute in a dry skillet before adding them to the slow cooker. This can help release their essential oils, intensifying their flavors.

3. Add a Smoky Twist Consider adding a dash of smoked paprika or a few drops of liquid smoke when you put the spices into the slow cooker. This will give your Sloppy Joes a subtle smokiness, complementing the chili and cumin.

4. Cheese Variations For a creamier texture, mix half of the cheddar with a bit of cream cheese before stirring it into the slow cooker. This extra step adds a rich, tangy flavor to the dish.

5. Garnishing Options When serving, offer options like sliced jalapeños, chopped cilantro, or pickled onions as toppings. These can provide fresh, vibrant flavors and a contrasting crunch to the soft buns and chili mixture.