Slow Cooker French Dip Sloppy Joes

Slow Cooker French Dip Sloppy Joes might just become your new go-to meal! This recipe combines the rich, savory flavors of a classic French dip sandwich with the comfort of sloppy joes, all cooked effortlessly in a slow cooker. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, these delightful sandwiches are sure to please everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: Simply brown the beef and onions, then let your slow cooker do all the work.
• Flavorful Combination: Enjoy the delicious blend of beef broth and seasonings that elevate this dish beyond traditional sloppy joes.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner or game day, these sandwiches are satisfying and crowd-pleasing.
• Cheesy Goodness: Melty provolone cheese adds a creamy texture that complements the savory filling perfectly.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve on brioche or slider buns; they can also be enjoyed over rice for a hearty meal.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Slow Cooker French Dip Sloppy Joes, having the right tools will simplify your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow Cooker
• Large Skillet
• Cutting Board
• Sharp Knife
• Wooden Spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow Cooker: Allows for low and slow cooking, resulting in tender meat infused with flavor.
• Large Skillet: Perfect for browning meat and sautéing vegetables before transferring to the slow cooker.
• Cutting Board: Provides a safe surface for slicing onions and other ingredients efficiently.

Ingredients

I love making sloppy joes in the slow cooker, and these Slow Cooker French Dip Sloppy Joes might be our new favorite! All the flavors of a classic French dip but in sloppy joe form and right from the slow cooker!

For the Meat Mixture

• 2 pounds lean ground beef
• 1 large onion (sliced thin)
• ½ cup quick cooking oatmeal

For the Flavor Base

• 1 1/3 cups beef broth
• 1 ounce onion soup mix (1 packet)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

Seasonings

• 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: Prepare the Beef and Onions

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

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

Add the meat and onion mix to your slow cooker. To it, add:
1. Quick cooking oatmeal
2. Beef broth
3. Onion soup mix
4. Worcestershire sauce
5. Garlic powder
6. Black pepper

Stir to combine all ingredients well.

Step 3: Cook to Perfection

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

Step 4: Add Cheese Before Serving

Right before serving, place slices of provolone cheese on top of the mixture in the slow cooker. Cover for about 5 minutes until the cheese melts.

Step 5: Assemble Your Sandwiches

Serve your flavorful mixture on brioche buns or slider buns for an enjoyable meal!

Enjoy your homemade Slow Cooker French Dip Sloppy Joes—it’s an easy recipe that brings comfort food to life!

How to Serve Slow Cooker French Dip Sloppy Joes

These Slow Cooker French Dip Sloppy Joes are not only delicious but also versatile! Here are some creative ways to serve them that enhance their rich flavors.

Classic Serving

• Serve the sloppy joes on toasted brioche buns for a traditional yet delightful experience. The buttery flavor pairs perfectly with the savory beef.

Cheese Lover’s Delight

• Add extra cheese, like mozzarella or cheddar, for an even cheesier bite. Melting the cheese directly on top before serving can elevate your meal.

Gourmet Touch

• Top with sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions for a gourmet twist. These toppings add depth and richness that complement the beef.

Kid-Friendly Version

• Create mini sliders using smaller buns for kid-friendly portions. This makes them easier to handle and perfect for little hands.

Side Sauce

• Serve alongside a small bowl of warm beef broth. This acts as a dipping sauce and enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

Fresh Greens

• Add a side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette. It balances the meal with freshness and crunch.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker French Dip Sloppy Joes

To make your Slow Cooker French Dip Sloppy Joes truly exceptional, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose Quality Meat: Use lean ground beef for a healthier option that still delivers on flavor.
• Customize Your Seasoning: Feel free to add additional spices like paprika or cayenne pepper for more heat.
• Monitor Cooking Time: Cooking on low for 3-4 hours allows flavors to meld beautifully; avoid overcooking.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh onions and garlic instead of powders for a bolder taste.
• Add Veggies: Incorporate chopped bell peppers or carrots into the mix for added nutrition and flavor.
• Toast Your Buns: Lightly toast your buns just before serving to prevent sogginess and add texture.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker French Dip Sloppy Joes

Pair these scrumptious Slow Cooker French Dip Sloppy Joes with complementary side dishes to create a well-rounded meal. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Sweet Potato Fries – Crispy sweet potato fries add sweetness and crunch, making for a perfect contrast to the savory sloppy joes.
2. Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw provides freshness and crunch, balancing out the richness of the beef.
3. Garlic Bread – Warm garlic bread is ideal for soaking up any leftover juices from your plate.
4. Vegetable Chips – Crunchy vegetable chips offer a healthy alternative to traditional potato chips with added flavor.
5. Corn on the Cob – Grilled corn adds sweetness and is easy to prepare alongside your main dish.
6. Roasted Brussels Sprouts – These provide a slight bitterness that complements the richness of the sloppy joes perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Slow Cooker French Dip Sloppy Joes, there are a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.

• Overcooking the beef – Cooking the ground beef too long in the skillet can make it tough. Aim to sauté just until browned before transferring it to the slow cooker.

• Ignoring seasoning – Not seasoning your mixture properly can lead to bland flavors. Be sure to add garlic powder, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce for a flavorful punch.

• Using the wrong broth – Using low-quality or unsalted beef broth can result in a less tasty dish. Opt for a good-quality beef broth for deeper flavor.

• Skipping the cheese – Neglecting to add cheese at the end misses out on that melty goodness. Always add provolone right before serving for a creamy finish.

• Not stirring enough – Failing to stir the mixture adequately can lead to uneven cooking. Ensure all ingredients are well combined before covering it up.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will keep well for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Slow Cooker French Dip Sloppy Joes

• Allow the sloppy joes to cool completely before freezing.
• Place them in freezer-safe bags or containers, where they will last for about 2-3 months.

Reheating Slow Cooker French Dip Sloppy Joes

• Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish covered with foil for about 20 minutes or until heated through.

• Microwave – Place individual portions in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until hot.

• Stovetop – Heat on medium-low in a skillet, stirring occasionally until warm throughout, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Slow Cooker French Dip Sloppy Joes that might help enhance your cooking experience.

Can I use another type of meat for Slow Cooker French Dip Sloppy Joes?

You can certainly substitute lean ground turkey or lamb for ground beef if desired. Just adjust cooking times as needed.

What cheese works best for Slow Cooker French Dip Sloppy Joes?

Provolone is classic, but you can also use mozzarella or cheddar for different flavor profiles and textures.

How do I customize my Slow Cooker French Dip Sloppy Joes?

Feel free to add diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or even spices like paprika and cayenne pepper for added depth of flavor.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare everything beforehand and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook. Just remember that cooking time might vary slightly when starting from cold ingredients.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker French Dip Sloppy Joes offer a delightful twist on traditional flavors while being incredibly easy to prepare. This recipe is versatile; customize it with your favorite toppings or side dishes. Give it a try, and enjoy a comforting meal that’s perfect any night of the week!