Sloppy Joe Meatball Bake

This Sloppy Joe Meatball Bake gives all the saucy comfort of classic sloppy Joes but turns it into cheesy, tender meatballs nestled under a melty, golden blanket. It is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner, game day, or even for making irresistible meatball subs. The best part is that you can serve these however you like and they come together in just under an hour.

I first made this dish for a potluck with friends and everyone asked for the recipe before even leaving the table. It has become my go-to comfort food, especially when company shows up on short notice.

Ingredients

• Lean ground beef: adds savoriness without being greasy look for meat that is around 85 percent lean for best flavor and texture
• Large egg: binds everything together for tender meatballs choose fresh eggs with firm shells
• Panko bread crumbs: lend lightness and keep the meatballs juicy try to use Japanese-style panko for extra crunch
• Whole milk: adds extra richness use full fat for best results
• Yellow onion: gives sweetness and depth finely chop for even cooking and a milder flavor
• Worcestershire sauce: brings umami and complexity this makes the meatballs taste like true sloppy Joes choose quality brands for best results
• Kosher salt and black pepper: essential for seasoning grind your black pepper fresh for better aroma
• Extra-virgin olive oil: helps to develop a crisp crust on the meatballs select a good oil for better browning and flavor
• Red bell pepper: adds brightness and sweetness pick a crisp and glossy pepper for maximum flavor
• Garlic: punches up the savory notes always use fresh garlic and mince it fine for best results
• Tomato sauce: forms the base for a classic sloppy Joe flavor use a good quality canned sauce or homemade if you have time
• Ketchup: offers a sweet tang taste before adding so you can adjust seasoning as needed
• Water: helps thin the sauce to the right consistency filtered water is always best
• Apple cider vinegar: adds a bright tang that lifts the rich flavors choose unfiltered for more complex taste
• Light brown sugar: rounds out the acidity with sweetness pack it to get the correct measure
• Yellow mustard: adds zing and the true signature taste of a sloppy Joe stick with classic yellow mustard for nostalgia
• Shredded mozzarella: melts perfectly for a stretchy cheesy topping buy whole milk mozzarella if possible for better melt and flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Mix and Form the Meatballs:

In a large bowl thoroughly combine ground beef egg panko milk one quarter cup chopped onion one teaspoon Worcestershire sauce kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Mix gently until everything is just combined. Scoop out portions and roll into about thirty three meatballs the size of ping pong balls for even cooking. Set aside on a plate.

Sear the Meatballs:

Heat two tablespoons olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium high heat until shimmering. Arrange meatballs in the pot in a single layer. Brown the meatballs on all sides turning gently so they do not break apart. This process should take seven to nine minutes and is crucial for locking in flavor and holding their shape. When browned transfer meatballs to a plate and discard excess grease.

Sauté the Vegetables:

Return pot to medium heat and add one tablespoon olive oil then toss in the chopped red bell pepper garlic and remaining onion. Stir and cook about eight to ten minutes until the vegetables are very soft and aromatic. This step creates a rich flavorful base for your sauce.

Build the Sloppy Joe Sauce:

Pour in tomato sauce ketchup water apple cider vinegar brown sugar yellow mustard and the remaining Worcestershire sauce. Stir thoroughly using a wooden spoon to scrape any flavorful browned bits off the bottom of the pot so nothing is lost. Let the mixture come to a gentle simmer.

Simmer the Meatballs:

Return the seared meatballs and any collected juices to the pot. Spoon sauce over the tops so they are all bathed in flavor. Simmer gently four to six minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and the meatballs are just cooked through.

Add Cheese and Broil:

Remove the pot from heat and scatter shredded mozzarella over the top of the meatballs. Place the pot under your oven broiler for about two minutes. Watch closely until the cheese bubbles and turns golden brown with little browned spots for a perfect finish.

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My favorite part is the cheesy broiled top and how everyone tries to get the corner scoop. The mozzarella gets so golden and stretchy it is always the highlight when I pull it from the oven. My kids love dunking crusty bread straight into the bubbling sauce.

Storage Tips

Let the meatball bake cool to room temperature before covering and storing in an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage freeze the cooled meatballs and sauce in a freezer safe container up to two months. Reheat in a covered oven safe dish at three hundred fifty degrees until hot and bubbly add fresh cheese on top before reheating for extra melt.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap ground turkey or even plant based meat for the beef just adjust cooking time as needed. Use gluten free bread crumbs if desired and substitute any good melting cheese like cheddar Monterey Jack or even provolone. If you are out of fresh bell pepper try jarred roasted pepper for sweet depth.

Serving Suggestions

Spoon the meatballs over toasted hoagie rolls for a classic meatball sub. For a family style meal serve straight from the skillet with a crisp green salad or roasted broccoli. They also make fun party appetizers just spear them with toothpicks and set out extra sauce on the side.

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The Sloppy Joe Connection

Sloppy Joe sandwiches have been a beloved American staple since the early nineteen hundreds known for their sweet tangy filling and easy prep. This bake honors the same saucy spirit but with bite sized meatballs packed with flavor and finished with a golden broiled top.

Commonly Asked Questions

→ How do I keep the meatballs from falling apart?

Use a binding mix of egg and panko crumbs, and be careful not to overwork the ground beef. Searing the meatballs before simmering them in the sauce also helps them hold their shape.

→ Can other cheeses be used besides mozzarella?

Absolutely! Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper Jack all melt nicely and add different flavors. Mix and match your favorites for a unique twist.

→ What’s the best way to serve this dish?

Enjoy these meatballs directly from the skillet, serve in toasted hoagie rolls for meaty sandwiches, or pair with fresh vegetables as a hearty main course.

→ How can I ensure the meatballs are fully cooked?

Sear the meatballs on all sides first, then finish cooking them by simmering in the sauce and a quick broil with cheese to ensure they're cooked through and flavorful.

→ Is it possible to prepare this dish in advance?

You can prep and sear the meatballs ahead of time, then finish by cooking in the sauce and broiling with cheese just before serving for best texture and freshness.