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Homemade French Onion Sloppy Joes recipe photo

French Onion Sloppy Joes

These French Onion Sloppy Joes are a delicious twist on a classic, featuring caramelized onions, melted Swiss cheese, and savory ground beef for ultimate comfort food.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American, French
Servings 4 servings

Equipment

  • Large Skillet
  • Broiler or Oven
  • Toaster or Pan for Toasting Buns

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 medium onion thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon thyme
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 4 hamburger buns
  • 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
  • turkey bacon cooked and crumbled (optional)

Instructions
 

Caramelize the Onions

  • Start by melting the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and cook slowly, stirring occasionally, for about 15-20 minutes or until the onions are golden brown and caramelized.

Cook the Ground Beef

  • Push the onions to the side of the skillet and add the ground beef. Break it up with a spoon and cook until browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat if necessary.

Add Garlic, Thyme, and Seasonings

  • Stir in the minced garlic and thyme, cooking for another minute until fragrant. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Simmer with Broth and Worcestershire Sauce

  • Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and coats the beef and onions.

Prepare the Buns and Cheese

  • While the beef mixture simmers, toast the hamburger buns lightly to add crunch and prevent sogginess.

Assemble the French Onion Sloppy Joes

  • Spoon a generous amount of the meat and onion mixture onto the bottom half of each bun. Top each with shredded Swiss cheese and, if using, sprinkle with crumbled turkey bacon.

Melt the Cheese

  • Place the assembled sandwiches under a broiler or in a hot oven for a few minutes until the Swiss cheese melts and bubbles.

Serve and Enjoy

  • Top with the bun lids and serve immediately while warm. Pairs wonderfully with fries or a fresh side salad.

Notes

  • Cook onions slowly to achieve perfect caramelization for deep flavor.
  • Toast buns to prevent sogginess from the juicy filling.
  • Store leftover beef mixture separately and reheat gently before assembling new sandwiches.
Keyword Cheesy, Comfort Food, Easy, Ground Beef