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35-Minute French Onion Sloppy Joes Your Family Will Devour

French onion sloppy joes

A twist on classic sloppy joes with caramelized onions and melted provolone for a French onion-inspired flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
  • 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tbsp ketchup (optional)
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 tsp dried thyme
  • 1/2 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 4 brioche buns, split and toasted
  • 4 slices provolone cheese
  • Optional garnish: fresh thyme leaves

Instructions

  1. Caramelize the onions: In a large skillet over medium to medium-low heat, melt butter with olive oil. Add sliced onions and cook, stirring often, until deeply golden and jammy, about 15–20 minutes. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds.
  2. Brown the beef: Push onions to one side of the skillet. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess grease if needed.
  3. Thicken the base: Sprinkle flour over the beef-onion mixture and stir for 1 minute.
  4. Simmer the sauce: Pour in beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup (if using), Dijon, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well and simmer 5–7 minutes, until thick, glossy, and spoonable.
  5. Assemble: Spoon the French onion beef mixture onto toasted buns.
  6. Melt the cheese: Top each with a slice of provolone. Cover the skillet for 1–2 minutes to melt (or place sandwiches under a quick broil).
  7. Serve: Finish with a sprinkle of thyme and serve hot.

Notes

  • For extra French onion depth, add 1–2 tbsp extra broth and a pinch more thyme.
  • Store leftover filling in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Freeze filling for up to 2 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: French onion sloppy joes, caramelized onion sloppy joes, easy weeknight dinner