Get ready to fall in love with comfort food all over again with this irresistible Smokey Sloppy Joe and Provolone recipe! Imagine a hearty, saucy beef filling warmly spiced and just the right amount of smokey, loaded onto a toasted bun and hugged by gooey, melty provolone cheese. Every bite brings together sweet, savory, and smokey notes with tender meat, all wrapped in a soft yet toasty sandwich bun. Whether you’re making a weeknight dinner or looking to impress friends at your next casual gathering, this recipe promises to become the ultimate crowd-pleaser. The best part? It’s quick, simple, and incredibly satisfying. Let’s dive into the delicious world of Smokey Sloppy Joe and Provolone!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
Smokey Sloppy Joe and Provolone relies on a handful of everyday ingredients, each playing a key role in its perfect balance of flavors and melty texture. These ingredients aren’t just staples — they elevate the dish with bold tastes, rich color, and that all-important smokey comfort.
- Ground beef: Provides the hearty, juicy base for the sloppy joe filling; opt for 80/20 for best flavor and moisture.
- Onion (finely chopped): Adds subtle sweetness and depth, melding into the sauce for that classic homemade taste.
- Green bell pepper (chopped): Brings pops of color and a hint of fresh, earthy flavor.
- Garlic (minced): Infuses savory bites and a lovely aroma to enhance the beef mixture.
- Ketchup: Delivers tangy sweetness while forming the backbone of the sauce.
- Tomato paste: Concentrates rich tomato flavor, helping to thicken and intensify the sauce.
- Worcestershire sauce: Contributes umami depth and a slightly tangy kick.
- Smoked paprika: The signature spice that creates the smoky warmth in every bite.
- Chili powder: Gives a gentle heat and complexity, encouraging a comforting spice profile.
- Salt: Brings all the flavors into perfect harmony.
- Black pepper: Adds a mild sharpness and subtle spice.
- Provolone cheese (slices): Melts beautifully over the filling, providing creamy, mellow richness with a slight smokey touch of its own.
- Sandwich buns (toasted): Toasting the buns prevents sogginess and imparts a delightful crunch.
- Olive oil: Sautéing in olive oil brings out the sweetness in the onions and peppers while keeping the beef luscious and flavorful.
How to Make Smokey Sloppy Joe and Provolone
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Begin by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add your chopped onion and green bell pepper. Sauté them together for 3–4 minutes, stirring frequently until they’re softened and glossy, releasing that inviting aroma that signals the start of something delicious. These two are foundational, setting the savory, slightly sweet stage for what’s to come.
Step 2: Add Garlic for Flavor
Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for just 30 seconds more. Garlic burns quickly, so keep a close eye. This brief burst unlocks its fragrance and excitement, layering in those bold undertones without overpowering the whole mix.
Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef
Now’s the time for the ground beef to shine. Crumble it into the skillet with your softened aromatics. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to break it up as it cooks. Let it brown and sizzle for about 6–8 minutes, until there’s no more pink and the meat develops those little golden bits. If your skillet has a lot of excess grease, drain it off for a less oily finish.
Step 4: Create the Smokey Sloppy Joe and Provolone Sauce
With the beef cooked through, stir in ketchup, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Reduce the heat to low and let everything simmer for 5–10 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll watch as the sauce thickens, blending the meaty juices and rich, bold flavors into one harmonious, smokey, and slightly tangy filling. This is the magic moment where Smokey Sloppy Joe and Provolone truly comes together!
Step 5: Assemble the Sandwiches with Provolone
Time for the melty, happy ending. Spoon the hot, saucy sloppy joe mixture generously onto the bottom halves of your toasted buns. Top each with a slice of provolone cheese. The heat from the meat will begin to melt the cheese right away — if you want it extra oozy and bubbly, place the open-faced sandwiches under your broiler for a minute or two. Cap off each sandwich with the top bun, and serve warm so the cheese stays luscious.
How to Serve Smokey Sloppy Joe and Provolone
Garnishes
Add a little flair and crunch by sprinkling chopped green onions, fresh parsley, or even a few sliced jalapeños on top before serving. A crisp dill pickle spear on the side adds welcome contrast and brightness. If you want to take the smokey theme even further, a pinch of extra smoked paprika over the cheese makes each sandwich look irresistible.
Side Dishes
Smokey Sloppy Joe and Provolone are pure comfort, but they play even better with a few classic or creative sidekicks. Think tangy coleslaw, zesty pickled vegetables, or crispy sweet potato fries. A handful of kettle chips or a light salad with a lemony dressing also balances out the meal, letting the rich, saucy sandwiches take center stage.
Creative Ways to Present
Hosting a party? Try serving the mixture as sliders on small brioche buns, or spoon it over crispy garlic toast for a fun, open-faced twist. For weeknight dinners, stuff the filling into baked potatoes or use as a topping for nachos with provolone sprinkled all over. Each method captures the spirit of Smokey Sloppy Joe and Provolone in a whole new way!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Smokey Sloppy Joe and Provolone filling stores beautifully in the refrigerator. Simply transfer any cooled, unused filling to an airtight container and keep it for up to three days. Store buns and provolone slices separately to maintain the best texture when reheating.
Freezing
Want to make double and stash some away for a rainy day? Go for it! The beef mixture freezes very well. Let it cool completely, portion it into freezer bags or containers, and freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Keep the buns and cheese out of the freezer for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, scoop the desired amount of sloppy joe mixture into a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring until warmed through. If it thickened a lot in the fridge, add a tablespoon or two of water. Alternatively, microwave in a covered container for 1–2 minutes, stirring once. Then assemble with fresh toasted buns and provolone to enjoy all over again.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Both ground turkey and ground chicken work well in place of beef if you’re looking for a lighter version. Just keep an eye on moisture, as leaner meats can dry out faster—add a splash of extra ketchup if needed.
What other cheeses can I use for the Smokey Sloppy Joe and Provolone sandwich?
While provolone adds the perfect melt and subtle smoky note, you can swap it for cheddar, mozzarella, or even smoked gouda for a bigger flavor twist. Each option gives the sandwich its own unique character.
How can I make the filling spicier?
Turn up the heat by adding a pinch of cayenne, extra chili powder, diced jalapeños, or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the sauce. Taste as you go, so you hit your ideal spice level without overpowering the classic Smokey Sloppy Joe and Provolone flavor.
Can I prepare the Smokey Sloppy Joe and Provolone mixture in advance?
Yes! This filling tastes even better after sitting for a day in the fridge, letting flavors deepen and meld. It’s perfect for meal prep or making ahead for parties—just reheat and assemble when you’re ready to eat.
Do I need to toast the buns?
Yes, toasting the buns is highly recommended! It not only adds a welcome crunch but also shields the bread from getting soggy under the saucy filling. If you’re short on time, you can toast them quickly under the broiler or in a hot skillet.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving big flavor and cozy nostalgia, you owe it to yourself to whip up this Smokey Sloppy Joe and Provolone. It’s warm, hearty, and just downright fun to eat. Gather your favorite people, bring out plenty of napkins, and get ready for a comfort food experience that just might become a new favorite in your kitchen. Don’t wait—give Smokey Sloppy Joe and Provolone a try and savor every single bite!
Print
Smokey Sloppy Joe and Provolone Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 sandwiches
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the rich and savory flavors of our Smokey Sloppy Joe and Provolone sandwich. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal that the whole family will love.
Ingredients
Ground Beef Mixture:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 green bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Assembly:
- 4 slices provolone cheese
- 4 sandwich buns, toasted
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare Ground Beef Mixture: Heat olive oil in a skillet. Sauté onion and pepper, then add garlic. Cook ground beef until browned. Stir in ketchup, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Simmer until thickened.
- Assemble Sandwiches: Spoon beef mixture onto toasted buns. Top with provolone cheese. Serve warm.
Notes
- Enhance smoky flavor with liquid smoke or smoked provolone.
- Pair with coleslaw or sweet potato fries.
- Broil sandwiches for a melty, crispy finish.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 510
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 740mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
