Description
These Best French Onion Beef Sloppy Joes combine the rich, caramelized sweetness of slowly cooked onions with savory ground beef, melted Gruyère cheese, and a flavorful blend of Worcestershire sauce and thyme. Served on toasted brioche buns, this comforting sandwich offers a gourmet twist on a classic favorite, perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20)
- 2 large sweet onions, thinly sliced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese
- 4 brioche buns
- 2 tablespoons butter (plus more for toasting buns)
- Salt, to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Caramelize the Onions: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced sweet onions along with a pinch of salt. Cook slowly, stirring occasionally, for 20–25 minutes until the onions are soft, caramelized, and golden brown.
- Cook the Ground Beef: Push the caramelized onions to one side of the skillet. Add the ground beef to the empty side and cook over medium heat for about 6–8 minutes, breaking the meat apart as it browns. Once cooked, mix the beef and onions together evenly.
- Add Flavorings and Simmer: Stir in the minced garlic, dried thyme, Worcestershire sauce, and beef broth. Combine all ingredients well and let the mixture simmer for 5–7 minutes, allowing the liquid to reduce and the flavors to meld into a thick, savory base.
- Melt the Cheese: Reduce the heat to low. Add the shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese to the skillet and stir continuously until the cheese is fully melted and incorporated into the beef and onion mixture.
- Toast the Buns: Butter the brioche buns generously on the cut sides. Toast them in a hot skillet or griddle until they develop a golden-brown crust, adding extra flavor and texture to the sandwich.
- Assemble and Serve: Spoon the cheesy French onion beef mixture onto the bottom halves of the toasted buns. Place the top halves over the filling, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve immediately for the best taste experience.
Notes
- Caramelizing the onions slowly is key to developing the rich, sweet flavor that defines this recipe.
- Using Gruyère cheese adds a nutty depth, but Swiss cheese is a great alternative.
- Make sure to toast the brioche buns well to prevent sogginess and enhance flavor.
- For a spicier option, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes with the garlic.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
