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Nacho Sloppy Joes Recipe

Unleash the flavor fiesta with this unorthodox twist on a classic American dish. The Nacho Sloppy Joes recipe is an exciting fusion of the hearty, sweet, and tangy Sloppy Joes with the spicy, cheesy goodness of nachos. It's easy to make and is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

Nacho Sloppy Joes Recipe
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Photos of Nacho Sloppy Joes Recipe

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The ingredients for this recipe are mostly staples that can be found in any average kitchen. However, the nacho cheese sauce may be a bit uncommon. It's typically found in the condiments or international foods aisle of most supermarkets. If you can't find it, you can substitute it with any canned cheese sauce or even make your own homemade version. The pickled jalapeno slices are another ingredient to look out for. They are usually located in the pickles and olives section.

Nacho Sloppy Joes Ingredients

Olive oil: Used for sautéing the onion and browning the ground beef. It helps lock in the flavors and keep the meat juicy.

Onion: Adds a sweet and tangy flavor that complements the robust taste of the meat.

Ground beef: The main protein in this recipe. It's hearty, flavorful, and absorbs the flavors of the seasonings well.

Taco seasoning: Gives the meat a spicy, smoky, and slightly sweet flavor that's characteristic of Mexican cuisine.

Tomato sauce: Adds a savory, tangy, and slightly sweet flavor. It also helps keep the meat moist.

Nacho cheese sauce: Adds a creamy, cheesy, and slightly spicy flavor. It's what gives this recipe its 'nacho' twist.

Pickled jalapeno slices: Adds heat and a tangy flavor that cuts through the richness of the other ingredients.

Hamburger buns: The vessel for the Sloppy Joe mixture. They're soft, slightly sweet, and perfect for holding all the ingredients together.

One reader, Jerrilyn Brink says:

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This nacho sloppy joes recipe is a game-changer! The combination of savory ground beef, zesty taco seasoning, and gooey nacho cheese sauce is simply irresistible. The pickled jalapeno slices add the perfect kick. It's a fun twist on a classic dish that's sure to impress your taste buds!

Jerrilyn Brink

Techniques Required for Making Nacho Sloppy Joes

How to cook ground beef: In a large pan over medium heat, add the ground beef and cook for 5 to 6 minutes, breaking up the meat with a spatula into smaller pieces.

How to simmer the sauce: After adding the taco seasoning and tomato sauce to the ground beef, bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 3 to 4 minutes.

How to assemble the nacho sloppy joes: Divide the cooked meat between the bottom buns, then top each sandwich with nacho cheese sauce and a few jalapeno slices. Finally, place the top bun on each sandwich before serving.

How To Make Nacho Sloppy Joes

Craving for sloppy joe and nachos? This sloppy joe recipe combines ground beef, nacho cheese sauce, and jalapeno in toasted buns for a unique dinner.

Preparation: 10 minutes
Cooking: 15 minutes
Total: 25 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

  • 2tspsolive oil
  • ½cuponionfinely diced
  • 1lbground beefpreferably 90% lean
  • 2tbspstaco seasoning
  • 8ozcanned tomato sauce
  • ½cupnacho cheese sauce
  • ¼cuppickled jalapeno slices
  • 4pcshamburger buns(toasted)

Instructions

  1. Heat the oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes or until translucent.

  2. Add the ground beef to the pan and cook for 5 to 6 minutes, breaking up the meat with a spatula into smaller pieces.

  3. Stir in the taco seasoning and tomato sauce and bring to a simmer. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes.

  4. Divide the meat between the bottom buns, then top each sandwich with nacho cheese sauce and a few jalapeno slices. Place the top bun on each sandwich then serve immediately.

Nutrition

  • Calories: 528.68kcal
  • Fat: 32.30g
  • Saturated Fat: 12.51g
  • Trans Fat: 1.53g
  • Monounsaturated Fat: 13.47g
  • Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.81g
  • Carbohydrates: 29.01g
  • Fiber: 2.80g
  • Sugar: 6.28g
  • Protein: 28.73g
  • Cholesterol: 97.34mg
  • Sodium: 968.80mg
  • Calcium: 217.68mg
  • Potassium: 626.37mg
  • Iron: 4.59mg
  • Vitamin A: 63.44µg
  • Vitamin C: 12.67mg

Pro Tip for Perfecting Nacho Sloppy Joes

To ensure your nacho sloppy joes have a rich and deep flavor, consider browning the ground beef thoroughly before adding the taco seasoning and tomato sauce. This process, known as the Maillard reaction, will give your meat a deliciously caramelized exterior and enhance the overall taste of your dish. Also, if you prefer a spicier kick, don't hesitate to add more pickled jalapeno slices or even a dash of hot sauce.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Nacho Sloppy Joes Recipe

Plan ahead: Prep your ingredients and measure out your spices and sauces before starting to cook. This will save time and make the cooking process smoother.

Use pre-made ingredients: Consider using pre-made taco seasoning and nacho cheese sauce to cut down on prep time and simplify the recipe.

One-pan cooking: Opt for a single pan to cook the meat and sauce together, reducing the number of dishes to clean and streamlining the cooking process.

Batch cooking: Make a larger portion and store the leftovers for future quick and easy meals. This can save time on busy days.

Substitute Ingredients For Nacho Sloppy Joes Recipe

  • olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a similar smoke point and mild flavor, making it a suitable substitute for olive oil in this recipe.

  • onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots have a milder and sweeter flavor compared to onions, adding a subtle sweetness to the dish.

  • ground beef - Substitute with ground turkey: Ground turkey is a leaner alternative to beef and will work well with the other flavors in the recipe.

  • taco seasoning - Substitute with homemade taco seasoning: Making your own taco seasoning allows you to control the spice level and avoid any unwanted additives.

  • canned tomato sauce - Substitute with diced tomatoes: Diced tomatoes can be used as a chunkier alternative to tomato sauce, adding texture to the dish.

  • nacho cheese sauce - Substitute with queso fresco: Queso fresco can be crumbled over the sloppy joes for a lighter, tangy, and less processed cheese flavor.

  • pickled jalapeno slices - Substitute with fresh jalapenos: Fresh jalapenos can be diced and added for a spicier and more vibrant flavor profile.

  • hamburger buns - Substitute with pretzel buns: Pretzel buns add a unique texture and flavor to the dish, enhancing the overall eating experience.

Presenting Nacho Sloppy Joes for Maximum Appeal

  1. Elevate the plating: When presenting the nacho sloppy joes, focus on creating an elegant and visually appealing plate. Use clean lines and minimalistic plating to showcase the vibrant colors and textures of the dish.

  2. Incorporate garnishes: Add a touch of sophistication by incorporating fresh cilantro leaves or microgreens as a delicate garnish. This adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness to the dish, elevating its visual appeal.

  3. Focus on precision: Pay attention to the placement of each component on the plate. Ensure that the nacho sloppy joes are neatly assembled, and the nacho cheese sauce is drizzled with precision to create an artful presentation.

  4. Emphasize contrast: Create visual interest by incorporating contrasting elements. Consider serving the nacho sloppy joes on sleek, modern dinnerware to juxtapose the rustic nature of the dish.

  5. Highlight the textures: Showcase the different textures of the dish by layering the ingredients thoughtfully. The soft bun, savory beef, and creamy cheese sauce should be presented in a way that highlights their individual textures.

  6. Consider the plate shape: Choose a plate that complements the colors of the dish and allows the nacho sloppy joes to take center stage. Opt for a plate with a wide rim to frame the dish beautifully.

  7. Use negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space to allow the dish to breathe on the plate. Avoid overcrowding and let the nacho sloppy joes stand out as the focal point of the presentation.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Nacho Sloppy Joes

  • Chef's knife: A versatile tool used for chopping, slicing, and dicing ingredients with precision.

  • Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for cutting and preparing ingredients without damaging countertops or knives.

  • Skillet: A versatile pan used for browning, sautéing, and simmering ingredients.

Storing and Freezing Nacho Sloppy Joes for Later

  • To store leftover nacho sloppy joes, allow them to cool completely to room temperature before placing them in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.

  • If you want to freeze the sloppy joe mixture, cook it according to the recipe instructions and let it cool completely. Transfer the mixture to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing. Label the container with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

  • To reheat frozen sloppy joe mixture, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. Once thawed, transfer the mixture to a saucepan and heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Add a splash of water or broth if the mixture seems too thick.

  • It's not recommended to freeze the assembled nacho sloppy joe sandwiches, as the buns may become soggy and the nacho cheese sauce may not reheat well. Instead, freeze the sloppy joe mixture separately and assemble the sandwiches with fresh buns, nacho cheese sauce, and jalapeno slices when ready to serve.

How To Reheat Leftover Nacho Sloppy Joes

  • The best way to reheat leftover nacho sloppy joes is to use a skillet or pan on the stovetop. Place the leftover mixture in the pan and heat it over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it's heated through. This method allows you to control the temperature and prevents the buns from getting soggy.

  • If you prefer to use the microwave, place the leftover sloppy joe mixture in a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat it in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until it's heated through. Microwave the buns separately for about 15-20 seconds to warm them up without making them soggy.

  • For a crispy twist, you can also reheat the sloppy joe mixture in the oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the mixture in an oven-safe dish and cover it with foil. Heat it for about 15-20 minutes, or until it's heated through. Toast the buns separately in the oven for a few minutes to crisp them up.

  • If you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat your leftover nacho sloppy joes. Place the mixture in an air fryer-safe dish and heat it at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until it's heated through. You can also place the buns in the air fryer for a minute or two to warm them up and give them a slight crisp.

  • Regardless of the reheating method you choose, be sure to add a fresh sprinkle of shredded cheese and a few jalapeno slices on top of the reheated sloppy joe mixture before serving. This will help to revive the flavors and textures of the dish.

Interesting Trivia About Nacho Sloppy Joes

The Nacho Sloppy Joes recipe is a fusion of Mexican and American cuisines, combining the flavors of nachos with the classic sloppy joe. This dish offers a unique twist on the traditional sloppy joe, adding a spicy kick with the addition of nacho cheese sauce and pickled jalapeno slices. It's a delicious and creative way to enjoy a classic comfort food with a Tex-Mex twist.

Is the Nacho Sloppy Joes Recipe Budget-Friendly for Home Cooking?

This nacho sloppy joes recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, such as ground beef, onion, and hamburger buns, are affordable and easily accessible. The addition of nacho cheese sauce and pickled jalapeno slices adds a flavorful twist without breaking the bank. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $15-$20. Overall, I would rate this recipe a solid 8 for its affordability and delicious flavors.

Are Nacho Sloppy Joes Healthy or Unhealthy?

The nacho sloppy joes recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. Here's why:

  • Ground beef is high in saturated fat, which can contribute to heart disease and other health issues when consumed in excess.
  • Taco seasoning often contains high levels of sodium, which can lead to high blood pressure and other health problems.
  • Nacho cheese sauce is typically high in calories, fat, and sodium, making it an unhealthy addition to the dish.
  • Pickled jalapeno slices, while adding flavor, are also high in sodium.
  • White hamburger buns are made from refined flour, which lacks the nutrients and fiber found in whole grain alternatives.

However, with a few tweaks, this recipe can be made healthier without sacrificing taste:

  • Swap the ground beef for lean ground turkey or a plant-based alternative like crumbled tofu or lentils. These options are lower in saturated fat and can still provide a satisfying texture and flavor.
  • Make your own taco seasoning using a blend of spices like chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and paprika. This allows you to control the sodium content and avoid any unwanted additives.
  • Replace the nacho cheese sauce with a homemade version using pureed vegetables like carrots or butternut squash as a base. This adds nutrients and reduces the fat and sodium content.
  • Use whole wheat or sprouted grain hamburger buns to increase the fiber and nutrient content of the dish.
  • Add more vegetables to the sloppy joe mixture, such as diced bell peppers, grated zucchini, or chopped spinach. This boosts the nutritional value and adds volume to the dish, making it more filling and satisfying.

Editor's Opinion on the Nacho Sloppy Joes Recipe

This nacho sloppy joes recipe combines the comforting flavors of classic sloppy joes with a zesty nacho twist. The combination of savory ground beef, tangy tomato sauce, and spicy jalapenos, all topped with creamy nacho cheese sauce, creates a deliciously indulgent dish. The recipe is simple to prepare and offers a fun and flavorful take on a family favorite. It's a great option for a casual weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing party dish.

Enhance Your Nacho Sloppy Joes Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears roasted to perfection and topped with a savory garlic parmesan seasoning.
Honey Sriracha Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts coated in a sweet and spicy honey sriracha glaze for a burst of flavor.
Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers: Spicy jalapeno peppers stuffed with cream cheese, wrapped in crispy bacon, and baked to perfection for a delicious appetizer or side dish.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Love Nacho Sloppy Joes

Spicy Beef Tacos: These spicy beef tacos are a perfect weeknight meal that the whole family will love. The combination of flavorful beef, fresh vegetables, and zesty toppings make for a delicious and satisfying dinner.
Cheesy Bacon Potato Casserole: This cheesy bacon potato casserole is the ultimate comfort food. Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with crispy bacon, it's the perfect side dish for any meal.
Mango Coconut Popsicles: These refreshing mango coconut popsicles are the perfect way to cool off on a hot summer day. Made with fresh mango and creamy coconut milk, they're a healthy and delicious treat for kids and adults alike.

Appetizers and Desserts That Complement Nacho Sloppy Joes

Appetizers:
Spinach and Artichoke Dip: Combine creamy spinach and artichoke dip with crispy tortilla chips for a perfect blend of flavors and textures. This appetizer is sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory mushrooms stuffed with a flavorful mixture of cheese, herbs, and breadcrumbs, then baked to perfection. These bite-sized delights are a crowd-pleaser and a great way to start any meal.
Desserts:
Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in a decadent, rich chocolate lava cake that oozes with warm, gooey chocolate from the center. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect balance of sweetness and richness.
Apple Crisp: Savor the warm, comforting flavors of a homemade apple crisp, with tender, cinnamon-spiced apples and a crispy, buttery oat topping. Top it off with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of caramel swirl ice cream for a delightful treat.

Why trust this Nacho Sloppy Joes Recipe:

This recipe guarantees a flavorful twist on a classic dish, combining the savory goodness of ground beef with the zesty kick of taco seasoning and the richness of nacho cheese sauce. The addition of pickled jalapeno slices adds a perfect balance of heat and tang. Trust the combination of these quality ingredients to elevate your sloppy joe experience to a whole new level. With the perfect blend of flavors and textures, this recipe promises to satisfy your cravings and impress your taste buds.

Share your thoughts on the Nacho Sloppy Joes Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum section and let us know if you made any tasty modifications!
FAQ:
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Yes, you can definitely use ground turkey as a healthier alternative to ground beef. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as ground turkey may cook faster than ground beef.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sloppy joe mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you're ready to serve, simply reheat the mixture and assemble the sandwiches with the nacho cheese sauce and jalapeno slices.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Of course! You can substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or crumbled tofu for a vegetarian version. Additionally, you can use a vegetarian-friendly nacho cheese sauce to maintain the delicious flavors.
Can I adjust the level of spiciness in this recipe?
Definitely! You can control the spiciness by adjusting the amount of pickled jalapeno slices added to the sloppy joes. If you prefer a milder flavor, simply reduce the amount of jalapenos or omit them altogether.
Can I use homemade taco seasoning instead of store-bought?
Absolutely! Using homemade taco seasoning can add a unique and personalized flavor to the sloppy joes. Just ensure that the seasoning is well-balanced and adjust the quantity according to your taste preferences.

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