Best Toppings for Sloppy Joes: Up Your Sandwich Game
Sloppy Joes are a classic comfort food enjoyed by many. The hearty, messy, and delicious nature of this sandwich makes it a favorite for kids and adults alike. While Sloppy Joes are satisfying on their own, there are several toppings that can take them to the next level. In this article, we will explore the ultimate list of the best toppings for Sloppy Joes, providing you with ideas to enhance the flavor and texture of this beloved dish.
Pickle Slices: Spicy and Crunchy
Pickles are a fantastic topping for Sloppy Joes, offering a balance of tang and saltiness. Their tart nature complements the sweet and savory flavors of the Sloppy Joe mix. Pickles also add a satisfying crunch to the sandwich’s typically soft texture. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can opt for sweeter pickles that still pair well with Sloppy Joes.
Avocado: Creamy and Flavorful
Adding sliced avocado to your Sloppy Joe brings a creamy and buttery element to the dish. The mild flavor of avocado blends harmoniously with the rich flavors of the Sloppy Joe, creating a well-rounded and satisfying combination. The softness of the avocado also enhances the ease of biting into the sandwich, adding a fresh and creamy dimension to every bite.
Fried egg: Perfect Harmony
Sloppy Joes and fried eggs are a match made in culinary heaven. For best results, we recommend using over easy eggs, where the yolk is still runny but not overly messy. The neutral flavor of the egg white complements the Sloppy Joe, while the creamy yolk blends with the ground beef for a delightful combination of flavors and textures.
Coleslaw: Creamy and Crunchy
Coleslaw is a classic side dish, often served with Sloppy Joes, but it can also be used as a topping. The creamy, fresh and crunchy nature of coleslaw complements the rich and savory flavors of Sloppy Joes. By adding a tablespoon of coleslaw to your sandwich, you create a creamy and delicious mix of textures that enhances the overall dining experience.
Red Onion Slices: Simple and zesty
Sometimes simplicity is the key. Thinly sliced red onion can be a great option when you prefer a simple topping. The red onion adds a slight crunch and tang to the Sloppy Joe without overpowering the flavor. For a bolder flavor, you can soak the red onion slices in white wine vinegar before adding them to the sandwich.
Thick tomato slices: Acid and Crunch
A thick slice of tomato adds a burst of acidity and freshness to the Sloppy Joe. It also adds a satisfying crunch to the overall texture of the sandwich. Sprinkling a little salt and pepper on the tomato slice enhances its flavor and gives it an extra kick. While beefsteak tomatoes are a popular choice because of their size and meatiness, you can use any type of tomato available.
Cooked bacon strips: A Savory Delight
If you’re a fan of both Sloppy Joes and bacon, combining the two is a match made in culinary heaven. Crispy fried bacon adds an extra layer of savory and salty goodness to the sandwich. Streaky bacon is the preferred choice, although you can opt for back bacon if you prefer a leaner option. For those seeking a touch of sweetness, maple bacon pairs well with the sweet and savory notes of the Sloppy Joe.
Cheese: Melty and Indulgent
A slice of melty cheese on a Sloppy Joe is an indulgent treat. As the cheese softens and melts, it adds a creamy and rich element to the sandwich. Cheddar, Gouda, Swiss, or Colby are all excellent options for this gooey topping. Alternatively, you can use grated cheese, which adds a burst of flavor even if it doesn’t fully melt.
Barbecue Sauce: Flavorful Moisture
While Sloppy Joes are already saucy, adding barbecue sauce can add flavor and moisture. You can choose from a variety of barbecue sauces, from sweet and smoky to savory, depending on your preferences. Flavored barbecue sauces can also be used to add depth and complexity to the overall sloppy joe flavor profile.
Sour Cream: Cool and Fresh
Sour cream is a popular topping choice for Sloppy Joes, and for good reason. Its cool, fresh flavor balances the richness of the meat mixture. To add a touch of freshness, sprinkle chopped chives on top of the sour cream as a garnish. The combination of creamy sour cream and aromatic chives adds a delightful contrast to the Sloppy Joe.
Jalapenos: Spicy Kick
For those who like a little heat, jalapenos are an excellent topping option. Sliced jalapenos add a spicy kick to the Sloppy Joe and elevate the flavor profile. You can adjust the amount of jalapenos based on your heat tolerance, ensuring that each bite has just the right amount of heat.
Crushed Potato Chips: Crunchy texture
If you’re looking to add some crunch to your Sloppy Joe, crushed potato chips are a creative and tasty choice. Sprinkling a handful of crushed chips on top of the sandwich not only adds texture, but also a subtle saltiness. Choose your favorite type of potato chip, such as regular, barbecue, or sour cream and onion, to complement the flavors of the Sloppy Joe.
Green Bell Peppers: Fresh and Vibrant
For a refreshing and vibrant topping, consider adding sliced green bell peppers to your Sloppy Joe. The crunchy texture and mild flavor of the peppers provide a pleasant contrast to the rich and meaty Sloppy Joe mix. The bright green color also adds visual appeal, making your sandwich even more appealing.
Sliced Jalapenos: Hot and Spicy
If you want to turn up the heat and add a spicy element to your Sloppy Joe, sliced jalapenos are an excellent choice. The combination of heat and tang adds complexity and depth to the overall flavor profile of the sandwich. Be sure to remove the seeds if you prefer a milder level of heat.
Bottom line
Sloppy Joes are a versatile and delicious sandwich, and with the right toppings, you can elevate their flavor and texture to new heights. Whether you prefer tangy pickles, creamy avocado, or savory bacon, there are plenty of options to suit your taste buds. Experiment with different combinations and discover your favorite Sloppy Joe creation. Next time you indulge in this classic comfort food, don’t forget to add a topping or two to take it to the next level of culinary satisfaction.
FAQS
What are the best toppings for Sloppy Joes?
The best toppings for Sloppy Joes vary based on personal preference, but some popular options include pickle slices, avocado, fried eggs, coleslaw, red onion slices, and cheese.
How do pickles enhance the flavor of Sloppy Joes?
Pickles add a tangy and acidic element to Sloppy Joes, balancing the sweet and savory flavors of the sandwich. They also add satisfying crunch and texture.
Why is avocado a recommended topping for Sloppy Joes?
Avocado adds a creamy and buttery flavor that complements the rich flavors of Sloppy Joes. It brings all the ingredients together and adds a fresh and smooth texture to the sandwich.
What type of cheese works well as a topping for Sloppy Joes?
Cheeses such as cheddar, gouda, Swiss or colby are excellent options for topping Sloppy Joes. Their melty and smooth texture adds a creamy and flavorful element to the sandwich.
Can I use barbecue sauce as a topping on Sloppy Joes?
Absolutely! Barbecue sauce can enhance the flavor and moisture content of Sloppy Joes. Choose a barbecue sauce that suits your taste, whether it’s sweet and smoky or savory.