Crispy toasted brioche, a symphony of sweet and savory caramelized onions, and juicy ground beef melding with melted Gruyère – these French Onion Beef Sloppy Joes offer a comforting yet elevated take on a childhood favorite. The key to success lies in the slow caramelization of the onions, which provides a deep, sweet base that complements the savory beef. The Gruyère adds a nutty richness that elevates the dish to a gourmet experience.
This recipe works so well because it balances familiar flavors with a touch of sophistication. It’s a satisfying meal perfect for a casual weeknight dinner, a fun weekend gathering, or even a hearty lunch.
Why you’ll love this French Onion Beef Sloppy Joes with French Onion Sloppy Joes
- This recipe transforms basic ground beef into a flavor-packed experience.
- The caramelized onions provide a sweetness that perfectly balances the savory beef.
- It’s a quick and easy meal that comes together in under an hour.
- The Gruyère cheese adds a touch of elegance and gooey goodness.
- These french onion sloppy joes are a crowd-pleaser, perfect for parties or family dinners.
- Easily customizable to your liking with different cheeses or toppings.
Ingredients & Substitutions
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 6 brioche buns, split
- 6 slices Gruyère cheese
French onion sloppy joes makes every moment feel energetic. Substitution Tips: For a vegetarian option, substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground. If you don’t have Gruyère cheese, provolone or Swiss cheese can be used as substitutes. For a gluten-free version, ensure your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free and use gluten-free buns.
How to make French Onion Beef Sloppy Joes
Step 1: Caramelize the Onions
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced onions and sugar, and cook, stirring occasionally, until onions are deeply caramelized and golden brown, about 20-25 minutes. Reduce heat if necessary to prevent burning.
Chef’s Tip: Patience is key! Don’t rush the caramelization process. Low and slow is the way to go for the best flavor.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Add ground beef to the skillet with the caramelized onions. Season with salt and pepper. Cook, breaking up the beef with a spoon, until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain off any excess grease.
Step 3: Thicken the Sauce
Sprinkle flour over the beef and onions, and stir to coat. Cook for 1 minute.
Step 4: Simmer the Mixture
Gradually pour in beef broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Add Worcestershire sauce and Dijon mustard. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
Step 5: Prepare the Buns
While the beef mixture is simmering, lightly toast the brioche buns.
Step 6: Assemble and Serve
Spoon the French onion beef mixture onto the bottom buns. Top with a slice of Gruyère cheese. Place the top buns over the cheese. Serve immediately.
Tips for Success
- Use a heavy-bottomed skillet for even caramelization of the onions.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when browning the ground beef; work in batches if necessary.
- Toast the brioche buns just before serving to prevent them from getting soggy.
- For an even richer flavor, try using bone broth instead of regular beef broth.
Serving Suggestions
These French Onion Beef Sloppy Joes pair perfectly with a side of crispy fries or a refreshing coleslaw. A simple green salad also complements the richness of the dish. For a complete meal, consider serving with a side of roasted vegetables. To complement the savory flavors, try serving with a crisp apple cider or a light vegetable broth.
You could even try serving these with some homemade apple fritters for dessert!
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover French onion beef mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the mixture in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between, to prevent overheating. Assemble the sloppy joes with fresh toasted buns and cheese just before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze this?
Yes, the French onion beef mixture can be frozen for up to 2 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Is this recipe spicy?
No, this recipe is not spicy. The Dijon mustard adds a touch of tang, but it’s not overpowering. You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the beef mixture for a little heat if desired.
Can I use a different type of bun?
Yes, while brioche buns are recommended for their richness and texture, you can use other types of buns, such as potato buns or even crusty rolls. Adjust toasting time accordingly.
These french onion sloppy joes are an incredible culinary mashup! The deep, savory flavor of French onion soup in a fun, handheld format, makes for an unforgettable experience. This is sure to be a family favorite. Let us know what you think in the comments below!
French Onion Beef Sloppy Joes
Dive into these French Onion Beef Sloppy Joes, a delightful twist on a classic comfort food! Savory ground beef simmers in a rich, caramelized onion and beef broth sauce, topped with melted Gruyère cheese and served on toasted brioche buns. Perfect for a crowd or a quick weeknight dinner, these sloppy joes are bursting with flavor and sure to become a new family favorite. The combination of sweet onions, tender beef, and gooey cheese makes every bite an unforgettable experience. Get ready for a flavor explosion in every bite!
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 6 brioche buns, split
- 6 slices Gruyère cheese
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced onions and sugar, and cook, stirring occasionally, until onions are deeply caramelized and golden brown, about 20-25 minutes. Reduce heat if necessary to prevent burning.
- Add ground beef to the skillet with the caramelized onions. Season with salt and pepper. Cook, breaking up the beef with a spoon, until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain off any excess grease.
- Sprinkle flour over the beef and onions, and stir to coat. Cook for 1 minute.
- Gradually pour in beef broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Add Worcestershire sauce and Dijon mustard. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
- While the beef mixture is simmering, lightly toast the brioche buns.
- Spoon the French onion beef mixture onto the bottom buns. Top with a slice of Gruyère cheese. Place the top buns over the cheese. Serve immediately.
Notes
For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar to the onions while they are caramelizing. You can also use other types of cheese like provolone or Swiss. These are best served immediately but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sloppy joe
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 90mg