There’s something nostalgic and soul-soothing about a good sloppy joe. It reminds me of carefree childhood dinners—quick, warm, and incredibly satisfying.
These BBQ Sloppy Joe Sandwiches hit all the right notes: sweet from grape jelly, smoky from BBQ sauce, and satisfyingly messy. The crispy fried onions on top take them to the next level.
Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun game day bite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The sweet and savory combo of grape jelly and BBQ sauce is unexpectedly addictive
It’s a budget-friendly crowd-pleaser that comes together in under 30 minutes
The crispy fried onions on top add an irresistible crunch
It’s a fun twist on traditional sloppy joes—bold, sticky, and ultra satisfying
Toasted buns soak up all the juicy flavor—no boring bites here!
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Ground beef: Lean, juicy, and cooks fast.
Grape jelly: Surprising, but magical for sweetness and shine.
BBQ sauce: Adds tang and smokiness—go for your favorite brand.
French’s fried onions: Crunchy topping that adds bold flavor and texture.
Hamburger buns: Toasted for extra structure and warmth.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Don’t skip toasting the buns—it keeps them from getting soggy.
Let the meat simmer in the sauce so it absorbs all that delicious flavor.
Add cheese if you want an extra indulgent bite!
How to Make BBQ Sloppy Joe Sandwiches
Step 1: Prep the buns
Preheat your oven to 400°F so you can toast the buns while the meat cooks.
Step 2: Brown the beef
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef with a dab of butter.
Add the diced onion and sauté until the meat is browned and the onions are soft.
Step 3: Drain the fat
Once cooked through, drain off any excess grease to keep the dish from getting greasy.
Step 4: Make it saucy
Reduce the heat to medium-low. Stir in the salt, pepper, grape jelly, and barbecue sauce.
Mix until everything is evenly coated.
Step 5: Simmer to perfection
Let the beef mixture simmer for 10 minutes.
This helps the sauce thicken and the flavors meld together.
Step 6: Toast the buns
While the meat simmers, place the buns cut-side up on a baking sheet.
Toast in the preheated oven for 4–5 minutes until golden and slightly crisp.
Step 7: Build your sandwiches
Spoon the warm sloppy joe mixture onto the bottom buns.
Top with a generous sprinkle of fried onions, then close with the top buns.
What to Serve It With
These sloppy joes pair wonderfully with coleslaw, sweet potato fries, or a crisp pickle on the side.
For drinks? Root beer or iced tea are always a hit.
Variations / Substitutions
Ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
Use honey BBQ sauce or chipotle BBQ for a smoky kick.
Top with shredded cheddar for a cheesy version.
Storage & Leftovers
Store leftover meat in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.
Assemble sandwiches fresh each time for best texture.
FAQs
Can I use homemade BBQ sauce?
Absolutely! Use your favorite homemade blend for a personal touch.
Is grape jelly really necessary?
Yes! It adds sweetness and shine. You can swap for apple jelly or honey in a pinch.
Can I freeze the meat mixture?
Yes—let it cool, then freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months.
What’s the best bun to use?
Soft hamburger buns work best. Brioche adds a buttery touch.
Can I make it spicier?
Add cayenne, chili flakes, or a splash of hot sauce to the meat mix.
What if I don’t have fried onions?
Use crispy bacon bits or skip the topping entirely—still delicious!
Can I prep this ahead of time?
Yes! Make the meat mixture in advance and reheat before serving.
Final Thoughts
These BBQ Sloppy Joe Sandwiches are my go-to when I want something fast, flavorful, and comforting.
Every bite is sweet, savory, and just a little messy—in the best way.
They’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, whether you’re feeding kids or hosting friends!
BBQ Sloppy Joe Sandwiches
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat oven to 400°F for toasting the buns.
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook ground beef with a dab of butter.
- Add diced onions and sauté until beef is browned and onions are soft.
- Drain excess fat from the pan.
- Reduce heat to medium-low. Add salt, pepper, grape jelly, and BBQ sauce. Stir well.
- Let the meat simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Meanwhile, place buns on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for 4–5 minutes.
- See full steps with tips & photos → https://theboatshedcafe.com/bbq-sloppy-joe-sandwiches/
Notes
- For a spicier kick, consider using a chipotle-flavored barbecue sauce.
- Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative to beef.
- Adding a slice of cheddar cheese before serving can enhance the flavor.
My name is Isabella, and this space was born from years of stirring sauces at sunset, baking cookies while the kids played on the porch, and finding comfort in a homemade meal after long, busy days. Here you’ll find delicious, reliable recipes made with simple ingredients, plus easy step-by-step photos and videos to help you cook confidently at home.