Mac and Cheese Manwich Sloppy Joes Recipe

Name: Mac and Cheese Manwich Sloppy Joes
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 can Manwich Sloppy Joe sauce; 2 cupa cooked macaroni and cheese; 4 large hamburger buns

KrystelMarch 21, 2024

DifficultyEasy

Total time15 minutes

Servings4

Mac & Cheese Manwich Sloppy Joes: a Family Favorite

Introduction

Hey there! I’m thrilled to share with you a kitchen experiment that turned out to be an absolute crowd-pleaser at my table - Mac and Cheese Manwich Sloppy Joes. Combining the heartiness of classic sloppy joes with the creamy, comforting bliss of mac and cheese, this dish is a fun and delicious twist that brings smiles all around. Whether you’re a fan of the tang and zest of Manwich, or the gooey goodness of mac and cheese, this recipe marries them in a way that has everyone asking for seconds.

Now, imagine getting the best of both worlds in one bite; the savoury, rich flavour of the meat mixture, perfectly seasoned with spices like chili powder and a hint of sweetness, hugged by a generous layer of creamy mac and cheese, all cradled between the soft embrace of a toasted hamburger bun. It's a match made in culinary heaven that not only gratifies your hunger but also brings a delightful twist to family dinners, game day recipes, or simply when you're in the mood for a comforting, easy meal. Trust me, the whole family will adore diving into these!

Key Takeaways:

Combines classic sloppy joes and mac and cheese into one irresistible sandwich.
Perfect meal for the whole family, satisfying both kids and adults alike.
Ideal for various occasions, from casual family dinners to game day gatherings.

The Origin of Sloppy Joes

Mac and Cheese Manwich Sloppy Joes Recipe

Like many great recipes, the origins of the Sloppy Joe stir up a bit of a delicious mystery. Some say this classic beef sandwich started in a café in Sioux City, Iowa, where a cook named Joe added a "sloppy" tomato-based sauce to his loose meat sandwiches. Others claim its roots dive deeper into the culinary melting pot of American cafeteria food. As time marched on, Sloppy Joes have diverged into various forms, embracing spicy Sloppy Joes with a dash of liquid smoke or the subtle sweetness of the sauce reflecting a more sweeter side.

Now, imagine taking this all-American classic and twirling it into a modern love letter to comfort food by combining it with creamy, cheesy goodness. Yes, melding mac and cheese with the hearty, tomato-rich Sloppy Joe filling evolves this dish into a delicious way to satiate cravings, proving that sometimes, the most flavorful creations are those that honor their robust history while boldly embracing new twists.

Ingredients List

Hamburger buns or Brioche buns for that extra fluffiness.
Lean ground beef or lean ground turkey, as a healthier twist.
A can of Manwich to bring in the classic Sloppy Joe flavor we all adore.
Cheddar cheese and Mozzarella cheese, because the more cheese, the merrier, right?
Mac and Cheese - use my Outback Steakhouse Copycat recipe, grab the deli macaroni and cheese from the grocery store, or Stouffer's mac and cheese works wonders too!
Tomato sauce, Tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce to deepen those rich, tangy flavors.
Green peppers and Red bell peppers, finely diced for a sweet, crunchy contrast.
Seasonings: Black pepper, Red pepper flakes for a kick, and a tablespoon of Brown sugar to balance the acidity.

Cooking the Perfect Mac and Cheese

Outback Steakhouse Mac and Cheese Recipe

The choice is yours – go homemade or grab a store-bought version. If time's on your side and you're up for a little adventure in the kitchen, starting from scratch with my Outback Steakhouse Copycat Macaroni and Cheese recipe can add that special touch to your dish. Cheddar cheese melted into a creamy sauce, perfectly coating each elbow macaroni, brings a comforting, homemade feel to every bite.

But hey, if life's got you running, grabbing a deli macaroni and cheese or a box of Stouffer's mac and cheese from the grocery store is just as good. Here's a little tip to elevate those convenient options: sprinkle a dash of worcestershire sauce or stir in a bit of smoked paprika for an easy but flavorful kick. It's all about making it yours, in the easiest, tastiest way possible.

Preparing the Sloppy Joe Meat Mixture

Alright, folks, let's dive into the heart of our Mac and Cheese Manwich Sloppy Joes - the meat mixture. Now, I know what you're thinking, "Lean ground beef and Manwich sauce, how can I mess this up?" But stick with me; there's an art to getting it just right. You’ll want to grab your large skillet and get it warmed up over medium-high heat. This is where the magic happens. Toss that lean ground beef into the skillet with a drizzle of olive oil, and let's get to work.

Now, breaking the beef apart is key to ensuring every nook and cranny grabs onto that Manwich sauce goodness. Once it's browned to perfection - and by that, I mean no pink left - it's time to introduce our star player: the can of Manwich. Pour it over your beautifully crumbled beef and let the two become acquainted on a simmer. It’s during this slow dance that the sauce thickens and clings to the beef, creating that iconic sloppy joe meat mixture we all love. So, whether you’re going for that classic beef sandwich vibe or aiming to hit all the right notes for game day recipes, getting your meat mixture spot on with Manwich sauce is the key to a crowd-pleaser.

Assembling Your Mac and Cheese Manwich Sloppy Joes

Alright, let's dive into making these delectable Mac and Cheese Manwich Sloppy Joes. Over the years, I've found joy in the simple things, and combining two of my favorite comfort foods into one is a kind of kitchen alchemy that brings a smile to my face. First, you want to grab your hamburger buns and toast them till they're just crispy enough. There's something about that crunch that really elevates the whole experience.

Next up, let's get that sloppy joe meat mixture ready. You've simmered it to perfection; it's hearty, it's flavorful, and it's about to get snuggly with our buns. Spoon a generous amount onto the bottom bun, the rich aroma wafting up to greet you. Now, for the crowning glory – the mac and cheese. Whether you've opted for the homemade route or taken a shortcut with a high-quality store-bought version, scoop it onto the meat, letting those creamy, cheesy noodles mingle with the savory beef.

There you have it, my friends. Pop the top bun on, and you're ready to dive into a sandwich that's not just a meal, but a hug for your taste buds. Whether on a rainy day, for a cozy family dinner, or when you just need that unmatched comfort food fix, these Mac and Cheese Manwich Sloppy Joes hit the spot every single time.

Customization Ideas

Spice it up: For those of you who love a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to your meat mixture. It's a simple way to bring the spice level up a notch.
Cheese Variations: While cheddar cheese is a traditional favorite, feel free to experiment with mozzarella for a stretchier texture or even a sprinkle of parmesan for a sharper taste.
Extra Veggies: Sneak in some hidden veggies by incorporating finely chopped green peppers or red bell peppers into your meat mixture. It’s a delicious way to add a nutritional boost.
Sweeter Side: If you're on the sweeter side of the fence, adding a tablespoon of brown sugar to your sloppy joe mix can subtly enhance the flavors, creating that perfect sweet and savory balance.
Go Smoky: Liquid smoke or a pinch of chipotle chiles can add a smoky depth to your Manwich sloppy joes, taking the taste to the next level with minimal effort.

Serving Suggestions

Classic French Fries: Nothing beats the crispy, golden delight of classic french fries served alongside the hearty and savory flavors of Mac and Cheese Manwich Sloppy Joes. They add a wonderful crunch and a great way to scoop up any cheesy goodness that might escape your sandwich.
Green Salad: For a lighter side, a fresh green salad with a simple vinaigrette can cut through the richness of the sandwich, offering a refreshing contrast with each bite and catering to those on a medically restrictive diet or watching their calorie intake.
Barbecue Chips: Amplify the smokey flavors in your Sloppy Joes by serving them with a side of barbecue potato chips. The subtle sweetness and smokiness of the chips make them a perfect companion, turning your meal into a delightful taste experience.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Alright, fellow food lovers, let's talk about keeping those Mac and Cheese Manwich Sloppy Joes just as delicious the second time around. If you find yourself with leftovers (a rare occurrence in my house!), here’s what you need to know to keep them tasting great. First things first, storing them properly is key. Transfer any leftover meat mixture and mac and cheese into separate airtight containers.

They’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to three days. When it comes to reheating, the microwave isn’t your only friend. For the meat mixture, simmering it on medium-low heat in a large skillet helps retain that perfect sloppy joe texture. As for the mac and cheese, a few minutes in the oven can help bring back its creamy goodness. Just cover it with aluminum foil to avoid drying out. These simple steps will ensure your leftovers are just as mouthwatering as when they were first made!

Fun Facts About Sloppy Joes

The Origins of the Sloppy Joe: While the exact beginnings are debated, it’s beloved as an American cafeteria classic, evolving from loose meat sandwiches and gaining popularity for its ease of preparation and hearty flavor.
Manwich Sloppy Joes: Manwich, a brand of canned sloppy joe sauce introduced in the 1960s, brought a convenient tomato-based sauce to households, making the sloppy joe an even easier and quicker meal for families.
Adaptability is Key: From being served on hamburger buns, brioche buns, to even hot dog buns; the sloppy joe adapts to your pantry. It’s all about what you’ve got on hand and your personal taste.
Sloppy Joe Day: Yes, it’s a thing! March 18th is dedicated to celebrating this messy yet delicious sandwich, marking a perfect occasion for fans to indulge in their favorite variation.
A Global Twist: The sloppy joe has inspired interpretations worldwide, from the addition of chipotle chiles for a smoky flavor to incorporating unique ingredients like apple cider vinegar for a tang, showcasing its versatility beyond the classic American recipe.

As you present this beautiful creation, your loved ones will be drawn in by the irresistible flavors and eye-catching presentation.
Krystel’s Cooking

A Delicious End to a Sloppy Journey

What a ride it's been, blending the savory world of classic beef sandwiches with the creamy bliss of mac and cheese. This journey through the culinary landscape, from assembling these Mac and Cheese Manwich Sloppy Joes to taking that first, mouth-watering bite, has been nothing short of a flavorful adventure. To think, all it took was a can of manwich, some lovingly cooked lean ground beef, and a scoop of luscious mac and cheese sandwiched between two soft hamburger buns. And let's not forget the option to jazz things up with barbecue sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for those who lean towards the sweeter side or crave that extra kick.

I urge you to dive into this delicious way to savor an American classic, transforming a simple meal into an experience that brings the whole family together. Whether you choose to go the extra mile with homemade sloppy joes recipe or opt for the ease of canned sloppy joe sauce, this dish is guaranteed to wrap up any day on a note of comfort, satisfaction, and a delightful messiness that's best shared with loved ones. So, why not take this recipe for a spin? It's the perfect excuse to get a little sloppy.

If you love oven roasted chicken check out my Whole Roasted Chicken Recipe!