Sloppy Joe Cheese Fries are the ultimate comfort food—crispy fries smothered in savory sloppy joe filling and gooey melted cheese. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or party treat!
Ingredients:
For the Fries:
- 1 lb (450 g) frozen or homemade French fries
- 1 tbsp olive oil (if baking fries)
- Salt, to taste
For the Sloppy Joe Mixture:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 small bell pepper, finely chopped (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¾ cup (180 ml) ketchup
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp chili powder (optional, for a spicy kick)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Cheese Sauce:
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1½ cups (360 ml) milk
- 1½ cups (150 g) shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Cook the Fries:
- Prepare the fries according to package instructions (bake, fry, or air fry) until crispy.
- If baking, toss fries in olive oil and sprinkle with salt before cooking.
- Make the Sloppy Joe Mixture:
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
- Add the onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté until softened (about 3-4 minutes).
- Stir in ketchup, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, smoked paprika, and chili powder.
- Simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Prepare the Cheese Sauce:
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
- Gradually whisk in milk, ensuring no lumps form. Cook until the mixture thickens (about 3-5 minutes).
- Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Assemble the Sloppy Joe Cheese Fries:
- Arrange the cooked fries on a large serving platter or baking sheet.
- Spoon the sloppy joe mixture evenly over the fries.
- Drizzle with cheese sauce and sprinkle with additional shredded cheese, if desired.
- Serve:
- Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions for a fresh touch.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips:
- For loaded fries, add toppings like diced jalapeños, sour cream, or crispy bacon bits.
- Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based crumbles for a variation.
- If you prefer a shortcut, use store-bought sloppy joe mix and cheese sauce.
This indulgent dish is perfect for game nights, parties, or anytime you need a hearty treat!