Take everything you love about a gourmet steakhouse burger and turn it into the juiciest, most savory weeknight dinner—that’s what you get with these Steakhouse Burger Sloppy Joes. The rich ground beef mixture is simmered in a bold, tangy sauce and stacked on a buttery brioche bun with melted cheese and crisp toppings. It’s comfort food with upscale vibes, and ready in under 30 minutes.

Perfect for busy nights or backyard gatherings, these sloppy joes ditch the plain for something irresistibly meaty and flavorful. Imagine that deeply seasoned burger flavor with hints of Worcestershire, garlic, and a splash of steak sauce, all soaking into a toasted bun—it’s messy in the best way.

Why You’ll Love This Steakhouse Burger Sloppy Joes

Weeknight friendly: Quick to make and full of bold flavors.
Gourmet taste: Brings steakhouse-style richness right into your kitchen.
Crowd-pleaser: Kids and adults alike love the saucy, cheesy combination.
Customizable: Add bacon, caramelized onions, or a slice of tomato to make it your own.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To make your Steakhouse Burger Sloppy Joes a breeze, gather these essential tools:

Large Skillet: A non-stick or cast iron skillet helps evenly brown the beef and reduce the sauce without sticking.
Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Ideal for breaking apart the beef and stirring the sauce into every nook and cranny.
Sharp Knife and Cutting Board: For prepping onions, lettuce, and optional burger toppings.
Toaster or Oven: Toasting the buns helps them hold up to the juicy filling and adds texture.
Cheese Grater (if using block cheese): Freshly grated cheese melts better and offers richer flavor.

Ingredients for the Steakhouse Burger Sloppy Joes

Ground Beef (85/15 or 90/10): The core of this recipe, offering rich, meaty flavor.
Yellow Onion: Adds sweetness and a slight crunch to balance the saucy beef.
Garlic: Infuses the meat with a savory, aromatic depth.
Worcestershire Sauce: Brings that classic steakhouse umami.
Steak Sauce (like A1): Gives the sauce its signature tangy kick.
Ketchup: Adds sweetness and body to the sloppy joe mix.
Brown Sugar: A touch of molasses-like sweetness rounds out the savory flavors.
Beef Broth: Helps create a rich, smooth sauce.
Cheddar Cheese: Melts into the hot beef mixture or over the bun for that gooey finish.
Brioche Buns: Soft, buttery, and sturdy enough to hold the filling.
Optional Toppings: Lettuce, tomato slices, crispy bacon, or pickles.

How To Make the Steakhouse Burger Sloppy Joes

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of oil and sauté diced onions until translucent. Add minced garlic and stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until no longer pink, draining excess fat if needed.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

Stir in ketchup, steak sauce, Worcestershire, brown sugar, and beef broth. Mix well, letting it simmer for 5-7 minutes until thickened to a rich consistency.

Step 4: Add the Cheese

Turn off the heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy throughout the beef mixture.

Step 5: Toast and Assemble

Lightly toast brioche buns. Spoon generous portions of the sloppy joe mixture onto the bottom bun, top with optional toppings, and close with the bun top.

How to Serve and Store Steakhouse Burger Sloppy Joes

Serving Suggestions: Serve these sloppy joes hot off the skillet, piled high on toasted brioche buns. Add toppings like crispy lettuce, pickles, or a fried egg for extra indulgence. Pair with classic steak fries, onion rings, or a crisp coleslaw for a well-rounded plate.

Storing Leftovers: Let the beef mixture cool completely before storing. Keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to maintain the saucy texture. Assemble fresh with toasted buns when ready to serve.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey works well and lightens up the dish. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning for depth.

What’s the best bun for sloppy joes?

Brioche buns are ideal for their buttery flavor and sturdy texture. Potato buns are a great alternative.

Can I make the filling ahead of time?

Yes, the beef mixture can be made up to 2 days in advance. Reheat and assemble just before serving.

How can I make this spicier?

Add a few dashes of hot sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce while it simmers.

Are there low-carb options for serving?

You can serve the sloppy joe mixture over a grilled portobello mushroom cap or in lettuce wraps for a low-carb twist.

What cheese works best besides cheddar?

Provolone or pepper jack are excellent options for a melty, flavorful variation.

Want More Ground Beef Ideas?

If you love these Steakhouse Burger Sloppy Joes, here are more comforting and creative meals to try:

Sloppy Joe Casserole for a baked version of your favorite messy sandwich.
French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole for a hearty, cheesy weeknight dinner.
Garlic Butter Beef Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with creamy richness and bold garlic flavor.
Cheesesteak Tortellini Bliss when you want steakhouse flair in pasta form.
Bang Bang Chicken Recipe if you’re looking for a little heat and creamy kick.

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Let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add crispy onions or go full steakhouse with mushrooms and Swiss? I love hearing your twists and tweaks. Questions are welcome too—let’s make dinner delicious together.