Slow Cooker French Dip Sloppy Joes

Slow Cooker French Dip Sloppy Joes might just become your new favorite comfort food! This dish combines the savory flavors of a classic French dip sandwich with the ease of sloppy joes, all made effortlessly in your slow cooker. Perfect for family dinners, game day gatherings, or any occasion where you crave something hearty and satisfying, these sloppy joes are sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With minimal prep time and easy instructions, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of beef broth and onion soup mix creates a deliciously savory filling that everyone will love.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Great for serving a group, these sloppy joes are sure to satisfy both kids and adults alike.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve on brioche buns or as sliders for parties; the choice is yours!
• Slow Cooker Convenience: Set it and forget it! Just let your slow cooker do the work while you enjoy your day.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Slow Cooker French Dip Sloppy Joes, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools that will help simplify the cooking process.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Slow cooker
• Large skillet
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups

Why These Tools Matter

• Slow cooker: This tool allows for hands-off cooking, letting flavors meld beautifully over time without constant monitoring.
• Large skillet: Perfect for browning meat and sautéing onions before they go into the slow cooker, enhancing flavor.
• Measuring cups: Ensuring accurate ingredient measurements is key to achieving the best taste in your dish.

Ingredients

Here are the ingredients you’ll need to prepare these delicious Slow Cooker French Dip Sloppy Joes:

For the Meat Mixture

• 2 pounds lean ground beef
• 1 large onion (sliced thin)
• ½ cup quick cooking oatmeal
• 1 1/3 cups beef broth
• 1 ounce onion soup mix (1 packet)
• 1 Tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

For Serving

• 6 slices provolone cheese
• 6 buns

How to Make Slow Cooker French Dip Sloppy Joes

Step 1: Brown the Meat

In a large skillet, add your ground beef and thinly sliced onion. Sauté over medium heat until the beef is cooked through.

Step 2: Prepare for Slow Cooking

Drain any excess grease from the skillet. Transfer the meat and onion mixture into your slow cooker.

Step 3: Mix in Remaining Ingredients

Add the quick cooking oatmeal, beef broth, onion soup mix, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and black pepper to the slow cooker. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly.

Step 4: Slow Cook

Cover your slow cooker and cook on low for 3-4 hours. This allows all flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 5: Add Cheese

Right before serving, place slices of provolone cheese on top of the meat mixture. Cover again for about 5 minutes until the cheese is melty.

Step 6: Serve

Scoop generous portions onto brioche buns or slider buns. Enjoy your delicious Slow Cooker French Dip Sloppy Joes with family and friends!

How to Serve Slow Cooker French Dip Sloppy Joes

Slow Cooker French Dip Sloppy Joes are deliciously messy and perfect for casual gatherings or family dinners. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Pairing with Classic Sides

• Potato Chips – Crunchy and salty, they provide a perfect contrast to the savory sloppy joes.
• Coleslaw – A refreshing side that adds a nice crunch and balances out the flavors.
• Pickles – Tangy pickles can cut through the richness of the beef, adding a zesty touch.

Creative Toppings

• Sautéed Mushrooms – Add depth with earthy mushrooms cooked in garlic for extra flavor.
• Fresh Herbs – Sprinkle chopped parsley or basil on top for a pop of color and freshness.
• Hot Sauce – For those who like it spicy, a drizzle of hot sauce can kick up the heat.

Serving Styles

• Open-Faced Sandwiches – Instead of using buns, serve the mixture on toasted bread for a unique twist.
• Sliders – Make smaller versions using slider buns for an easy appetizer at parties.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker French Dip Sloppy Joes

Making Slow Cooker French Dip Sloppy Joes is simple, but a few tips can take your dish to the next level.

• Bold flavors – Use high-quality beef broth for richer taste and depth in your sloppy joes.
• Texture matters – Incorporate finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers for added texture and sweetness.
• Layering cheese – Use a mix of cheeses such as mozzarella or cheddar along with provolone for more flavor complexity.
• Rest before serving – Let the mixture sit for 10 minutes after cooking to enhance the flavors before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker French Dip Sloppy Joes

When serving Slow Cooker French Dip Sloppy Joes, complement them with delightful side dishes that enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. French Fries – Crispy fries are always a hit and make for an indulgent pairing with sloppy joes.
2. Corn on the Cob – Grilled or boiled corn adds sweetness and is perfect for summer meals.
3. Mixed Green Salad – A light salad with vinaigrette balances out the heaviness of the sandwich.
4. Baked Beans – Sweet and smoky beans create a comforting side that pairs beautifully with beef dishes.
5. Roasted Vegetables – Seasoned roasted veggies offer both color and nutrition to your plate.
6. Macaroni Salad – Creamy and tangy, this classic dish complements the rich flavors of sloppy joes nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Slow Cooker French Dip Sloppy Joes can be simple, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using the wrong meat: Ensure you use lean ground beef for the best flavor and texture. Other meats might not provide the same juicy result.
• Neglecting to drain grease: Always drain excess grease after cooking the beef. This helps maintain a healthier dish and prevents it from becoming too greasy.
• Not seasoning enough: Be generous with your seasonings. Missing key flavors can make your sloppy joes bland, so don’t skip the Worcestershire sauce or spices.
• Overcooking or undercooking: Stick to the suggested cooking time in the recipe. Overcooked meat can become dry, while undercooked meat may not be safe to eat.
• Forgetting to melt the cheese: Don’t skip melting the provolone on top right before serving. It adds a creamy texture that enhances the overall taste.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Slow Cooker French Dip Sloppy Joes

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags for storage.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Slow Cooker French Dip Sloppy Joes

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish for 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Slow Cooker French Dip Sloppy Joes different from regular sloppy joes?

Slow Cooker French Dip Sloppy Joes combine classic flavors of a French dip sandwich with the messy delight of sloppy joes. The beef is simmered with savory broth and spices, creating a rich taste.

Can I customize my Slow Cooker French Dip Sloppy Joes?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor. You can also try different cheeses based on your preference.

How do I serve Slow Cooker French Dip Sloppy Joes?

Serve them on brioche buns or slider buns for a delicious meal. You can also offer side dishes like fries or a salad for a complete dinner.

What sides pair well with Slow Cooker French Dip Sloppy Joes?

Consider pairing these sloppy joes with crispy potato wedges, coleslaw, or a refreshing garden salad for balance.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker French Dip Sloppy Joes are not only easy to make but also full of flavor and comfort. This recipe allows for plenty of customization—add your favorite toppings or sides! Don’t hesitate to give it a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!

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