Chef John's Hot Sloppy Joe Dip

Name: Chef John's Hot Sloppy Joe Dip
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 65 min
Total time: 80 min
Ingredients: 2 pounds extra lean ground beef; 2 green bell peppers, diced; 1 onion, diced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 2 teaspoons kosher salt, or to taste; 1 teaspoon ground black pepper; cayenne pepper, to taste; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup ketchup; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese, divided

Cook Time: 65 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe was developed at its original yield. Ingredient amounts are automatically adjusted, but cooking times and steps remain unchanged. Note that not all recipes scale perfectly. Original recipe (1X) yields 12 servings.

2 pounds extra lean ground beef
2 green bell peppers, diced
1 onion, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons brown sugar
2 teaspoons kosher salt, or to taste
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
Cayenne pepper, to taste
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup ketchup
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese, divided

Directions

Step 1: Place ground beef, bell pepper, onion, garlic, flour, brown sugar, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper in a heavy pot.

Step 2: Place the pot over medium-high heat. Break up and stir the mixture as it heats. Cook and stir until most of the moisture has evaporated and the mixture is crumbly and begins to brown, about 15 minutes.

Step 3: Stir in chicken broth, ketchup, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix well and bring the mixture to a simmer.

Step 4: Reduce heat to medium and cook, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens, about 45 minutes.

Step 5: Set the oven rack about 6 inches from the heat source and preheat the oven's broiler.

Step 6: Transfer the mixture to an oven-proof saucepan. Top with 1/2 of the shredded cheese. Use a fork to poke the cheese down into the dip, stirring lightly.

Step 7: Top with the remaining cheese. Place the pan under the broiler and broil until the cheese is browned and the mixture is hot and bubbly, about 5 minutes.

Recipe Tips

You can substitute 2 cups of water for the 2 cups of chicken broth.
You can finish this dip in a hot oven (425F / 220C) instead of under the broiler.
This dip doesn't have to be presented as a baked dip. You can keep it on the stove over low heat for guests to dip into.
This dip is perfect for serving with baguette slices.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories: 230

Total Fat: 12g (15% Daily Value)

Saturated Fat: 5g (27% Daily Value)

Cholesterol: 67mg (22% Daily Value)

Sodium: 832mg (36% Daily Value)

Total Carbohydrate: 12g (4% Daily Value)

Dietary Fiber: 1g (3% Daily Value)

Total Sugars: 8g

Protein: 19g (38% Daily Value)

Vitamin C: 20mg (22% Daily Value)

Calcium: 86mg (7% Daily Value)

Iron: 2mg (11% Daily Value)

Potassium: 301mg (6% Daily Value)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Chef Johns Hot Sloppy Joe Dip is a crowd-pleasing, cheesy appetizer that takes the classic Sloppy Joe and transforms it into a dip perfect for sharing. This dish is savory, tangy, and comforting, and its easy to make with just a few ingredients. The combination of seasoned ground beef, peppers, onions, and gooey melted cheese creates a warm, satisfying dip ideal for any gathering.

History of the Sloppy Joe

The Sloppy Joe is a beloved American dish that originated in the early 20th century. The exact origins are debated, but one popular theory is that the Sloppy Joe was invented by a cook named Joe at a bar in Key West, Florida, around 1930. Initially known as the "loose meat sandwich," the dish gained popularity when it was served on a bun, with the loose meat mixture made from ground beef, onions, and tomato sauce. The dip version of Sloppy Joe, like the one in Chef Johns recipe, takes this iconic dish and turns it into an easy-to-share snack or appetizer.

Regional Variations of Sloppy Joe

While the basic Sloppy Joe recipe is widely recognized across the U.S., regional variations often arise. For example, in some places, Sloppy Joes may include additional ingredients like bell peppers, cheese, or even barbecue sauce. In the Midwest, a popular twist is to use a sweetened ketchup-based sauce, while some Southern versions might introduce spicy elements like hot sauce or cayenne pepper. The Hot Sloppy Joe Dip by Chef John incorporates elements from these regional versions, with a rich base of ground beef, green peppers, onions, and plenty of melted cheddar cheese.

What Makes Chef Johns Hot Sloppy Joe Dip Different?

Chef Johns Hot Sloppy Joe Dip stands out from other Sloppy Joe-inspired dishes because it is designed specifically as a dip. Unlike traditional Sloppy Joes that are served in a sandwich format, this dip is designed to be scooped up with a baguette, chips, or vegetables. Additionally, the dish is baked under the broiler, giving it a crispy, golden cheese top. The dips flavor is robust, with a balanced combination of tangy ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and the subtle sweetness of brown sugar, which differentiates it from the sweeter, more traditional Sloppy Joe sandwiches.

Where is This Dish Typically Served?

This delicious dip is perfect for a variety of occasions. It is often served at casual gatherings like football parties, barbecues, or family get-togethers. The dip can also be the star of a game day spread or any event where finger foods and appetizers are needed. Due to its hearty nature, its ideal for potlucks or as an easy-to-make dish for a crowd. Whether served alongside crispy baguette slices or tortilla chips, Chef Johns Hot Sloppy Joe Dip is a crowd favorite.

Interesting Facts

The Sloppy Joe sandwich itself has become a symbol of American comfort food, often associated with school lunches and diner menus.
Chef John Mitzewich, the creator of this dip, is a well-known culinary personality, famous for his approachable cooking style and easy-to-follow recipes.
The dip can easily be customized to suit dietary preferencesvegan versions can be made using plant-based ground meat and dairy-free cheese, while gluten-free diets can be accommodated by using gluten-free flour for thickening.
This dish is also versatile in terms of spice leveladd a little more cayenne pepper or even hot sauce to turn up the heat!

Conclusion

Chef Johns Hot Sloppy Joe Dip is an innovative take on a classic American dish, blending the bold flavors of a Sloppy Joe with the convenience of a cheesy dip. Its a fantastic addition to any appetizer spread and sure to be a hit with anyone who loves savory, cheesy dishes. Whether youre hosting a casual party or preparing a dish to bring to a friends gathering, this dip is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

FAQ about Chef John's Hot Sloppy Joe Dip

Yes, you can store the leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, adding a little extra broth or water if it thickens too much.

Yes, this dip can be frozen. Place it in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag and store it for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

This dip is versatile! You can serve it with tortilla chips, crackers, sliced veggies (like carrots, celery, or cucumbers), or even over crispy tater tots or on traditional buns.

Yes, you can prepare the dip up to the point of broiling it. After cooking the mixture on the stove, allow it to cool completely and store it in the fridge for up to a day. When you're ready to serve, top with cheese and broil as instructed.

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef if you prefer a lighter option. The flavor and texture will be slightly different, but it will still work well in this recipe.

If you find the dip too sweet, you can reduce the amount of brown sugar or substitute with a smaller amount of honey or maple syrup. You could also add a bit of cider vinegar to balance out the sweetness.

Yes! You can increase the amount of cayenne pepper, or add chili powder or a dash of hot sauce to give the dip more heat. Adjust to your taste preferences.

If the dip is too runny, continue cooking it over medium heat, stirring frequently, to allow the liquid to evaporate. If needed, you can also add a little more flour to help thicken the mixture.

Yes, you can use plant-based ground beef alternatives and vegan cheese to make this dip vegetarian or vegan. Make sure to check the other ingredients, such as Worcestershire sauce, and substitute with a vegan version if necessary.

It's best to not leave the dip out for more than 2 hours at room temperature to ensure food safety. After that time, it should be refrigerated.

Comments

lisa bennett-brexler

10/06/2025 01:52:54 PM

Amazing dip recipe for the big game day. Made this last night by Chef Johns recipe...followed to the tee...DELICIOUS!!! As usual Chef you are the BOMB!!! Thank you for all your great recipes and tips. Have been on your coat-tail for years. And yes...as always...ENJOY...

Janet

06/05/2023 01:15:52 AM

I was looking for something different for ground beef and tried this. I halved it because there are only 2 of us. I followed the recipe exactly but tasting as it cooked. I added beef broth instead of chicken and about half a cup of salsa toward the end. I also stirred all the cheese into the mixture and kept it on the burner instead of turning the oven on ( it heats up the whole house and it's already too hot here). Next time I think I will add some smokey paprika but it was really good. Even hubby cleaned his plate which he never does.

Cindy Diamond

09/30/2018 01:48:07 PM

Update, It’s perfect as written. My daughter is vegan. I made a vegan dip for her. 1 bag vegan crumbles. Vegan shredded cheese. And subbed 1 tsp. Soy sauce and 1/4 tsp. Apple cider vinegar for the Worcestershire sauce. Followed the recipe with the remaining ingredients. I have to say hard to tell the difference between the two! Thanks So much Chef John!

NiftyStove1907

05/22/2023 08:38:22 PM

Second time making it and I added 1/2 cup brown sugar and and extra cup of ketchup, the stirred in 1/2 the cheese and covered with the other half and baked and it was fabulous!

FriskyIce2862

12/31/2022 06:58:04 PM

This was a pretty yummy dip! But I tweaked it. Instead of green peppers I put poblano peppers in to give it a heat but not a spice. I also put in bacon about a cup of bacon crumbled to add some flavor. I used Sriracha ketchup which is another type of heated ketchup but not necessarily spicy. I added an extra tablespoon of brown sugar to complement the sweet and spicy. My guests loved it so much it was the first thing to go and it was prime rib right next to it LOL

stjchurchcook

02/27/2017 06:45:06 PM

This dip was really good! Chef John did it again! I would never have thought to turn sloppy joes into a dip. Hubby is not a fan of sweet stuff so I knew I needed to cut back a bit on the brown sugar, I also added a splash of cider vinegar and a teaspoon of chili powder and I always add about 1/2 cup of finely diced celery to my sloppy joes. I don't think I am misleading anyone by rating this 5 stars even though I did tweak it a bit to suit my family's taste preference. I'm sure the original recipe tastes great. Thanks again Chef John.

DREGINEK

02/14/2022 04:15:32 AM

Other than doing one red pepper, one green; changed nothing!! The cayenne? 1/8 tsp. Very well liked! It was just in so much stiff competition with other apps for the Super Bowl! Makes a LOT! But we liked this so much, I would half and make again!! Made in cast iron and people nibbled on all night! Thanks CJ!!

Ekbrook

09/25/2018 11:45:58 PM

Tasty! I altered using half Beef broth and half chicken (as that is what I had on hand). Warm and gooey/cheesy. We had several options for serving: on baguettes per recipe, on traditional buns, and over crispy tater tots. All options were a hit. Will likely make again.

Torey Keener

02/07/2021 04:10:45 PM

Very unimpressed. I would have been better off to use Manwich mix. Had to add another cup if Ketchup to get the color close to being right then tweak the other ingredients just to make it edible. I’ll be throwing this recipe out.

Chef Gooch

12/22/2019 03:55:21 PM

Made as written and we all loved it! Those that say it’s soupy, just simmer it longer until it’s right. CJ u da man!

Shelley Byrne

01/08/2018 02:09:12 AM

I used ground chuck with this, and it was just way too fatty, even with adding two additional tablespoons of flour to soak up the grease from the beef. I skimmed off as much as I could from the top, but I think this needs to be made with ground sirloin or possibly ground turkey to fix this problem. I thought the catsup was very sweet without being tomatoey enough, and it needed more tang. Frankly, I preferred the Manwich. Of note, however, my husband did enjoy the taste.

Sandy Cunningham

04/10/2025 08:02:04 PM

This is a ooh its so good recipe! I make it right by the recipe with no changes! Why mess with perfection!

RPKeeks

12/20/2024 03:59:40 PM

I have been making this for my family for years. It is tasty and makes for great leftovers.

SpeedyOven4622

11/08/2024 12:46:02 AM

I made this tonight and it is AMAZING!! soooo delicious!!! And easy to make !! Thank you for sharing your recipe !! Will definitely be making it again !

Helen Garcia

10/20/2024 02:27:41 PM

I didn’t change a thing and it was perfect.

Deborah Walker

10/09/2024 02:36:39 AM

This recipe is perfect for busy nights. It’s quick, easy, and incredibly tasty. The flavors are rich without being overwhelming, and my family loved it. I’ll definitely make this again soon.

MirthZiti1536

04/15/2024 09:39:27 PM

This received great reviews. Awesome recipe as per use with Chef John.

JovialPulp8475

02/11/2024 10:15:48 PM

This is delicious even without the cheese.

JOCELYN SCOTT

02/07/2024 03:29:18 AM

First try taking it to work for pre-Superbowl party.

Jenny Riley

05/23/2023 09:22:05 PM

Well.... I usually love Chef Johns recipes... this one seemed like it couldn't make up its mind on sweet or salt... It was bland! It needed something ....

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