Iron Pier Smoky Sloppy Joe Melts

Ingredients

Smoky Sloppy Joe Filling

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 small onion, finely diced
• 1/2 bell pepper, finely diced, optional
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3/4 cup ketchup
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar or maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon yellow mustard or Dijon mustard
• 1 to 1 1/2 teaspoons Iron Pier No. 2
• 1/4 cup water or beef broth, as needed

Melts

• 4 hamburger buns, brioche buns, or thick slices of sandwich bread
• 1 cup shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella cheese
• 2 tablespoons butter, softened
• Optional: pickles for serving
• Optional: extra Iron Pier No. 2 for finishing

Directions

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
2. Drain excess grease if needed.
3. Add diced onion and bell pepper if using, then cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened.
4. Stir in garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
5. Add ketchup, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar or maple syrup, mustard, Iron Pier No. 2, and water or broth.
6. Stir until the sauce is smooth and the beef is fully coated.
7. Simmer for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the filling is thick, saucy, and glossy.
8. Preheat the broiler or oven to 400°F.
9. Place buns or bread on a baking sheet and lightly butter the cut sides.
10. Toast for 3 to 5 minutes, just until lightly golden.
11. Spoon the smoky Sloppy Joe filling over the toasted buns.
12. Top with shredded cheese.
13. Bake or broil until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
14. Finish with pickles or a tiny extra sprinkle of Iron Pier No. 2 if desired.
15. Serve warm.

Serve With

Serve with potato chips, fries, pickles, coleslaw, macaroni salad, roasted potatoes, or a simple veggie tray for an easy family dinner that feels fun, familiar, and full of flavor.