Introduction
ultra-satisfying sandwich vibe—but with the bold, savory flavors you’d expect from a great steakhouse burger: Worcestershire depth, garlic and onion,
a touch of smoky sweetness, and the option to finish with melty cheddar, Swiss, or provolone.This recipe is fast enough for busy weeknights and fun enough for game day. It’s also incredibly flexible: make it smoky with bacon, tangy with pickles,
spicy with jalapeños, or “loaded” with sautéed mushrooms and onions like a deluxe burger. Serve it on toasted brioche buns, pretzel buns, or even over fries
for a fork-and-knife situation that tastes like your favorite burger spot at home.
Ingredients
For the steakhouse sloppy joe filling
- 1 1/2 lb (680 g) ground beef (80/20 for best flavor, or 90/10 for leaner)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, only if using very lean beef)
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 1/2 green bell pepper, finely diced (optional but classic)
- 3–4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth (low-sodium recommended)
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste (adds richness)
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce (steakhouse must-have)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional; adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust after tasting)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Pinch of chili flakes or hot sauce (optional)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water (optional slurry for thicker sauce)
For serving
- 6 burger buns (brioche, potato rolls, pretzel buns, or toasted sandwich buns)
- Cheese slices (cheddar, Swiss, provolone, or pepper jack)
- Butter (for toasting buns, optional)
- Pickles, sliced (highly recommended)
- Red onion or crispy onions (optional)