Sloppy Joe Smash Burgers Recipe

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 teaspoons olive oil
• 1/3 cup diced onion
• 1/3 cup diced green bell pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 pound ground beef
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1/2 cup Sloppy Joe sauce, plus more for serving
• 2 slices thick-cut American cheese
• 2 hamburger buns

Directions

1. Heat a griddle or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil, diced onion, and bell pepper. Season with garlic powder and cook, stirring constantly, until the vegetables are softened and browned around the edges, about 5 minutes.
2. Once the onions and peppers are cooked, arrange the mixture into 4 mounds on the skillet. Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions and place each portion over a mound of the onion and pepper mixture.
3. Using a flat spatula, press down firmly on each beef portion to form thin patties. Season the patties evenly with salt and pepper. Cook the patties undisturbed for about 3 minutes, or until the bottom is browned and the edges are crispy.
4. Flip the patties over and spoon 2 tablespoons of Sloppy Joe sauce on top of each patty. Place a slice of American cheese on top of two of the patties. Top with the remaining two patties to create a stacked burger.
5. Toast the hamburger buns in the same pan drippings, ensuring they get lightly crispy and golden. Once toasted, place the stacked burgers onto the buns.
6. Serve the burgers with additional Sloppy Joe sauce if desired. Enjoy your delicious homemade Sloppy Joe Burger!

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories	721
Total Fat	36g (46%)
Saturated Fat	14g (71%)
Cholesterol	134mg (45%)
Sodium	1824mg (79%)
Total Carbohydrate	52g (19%)
Dietary Fiber	3g (12%)
Total Sugars	15g
Protein	46g (93%)
Vitamin C	25mg (28%)
Calcium	744mg (57%)
Iron	6mg (36%)
Potassium	888mg (19%)

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

The Origins of Sloppy Joe Smash Burgers

The Sloppy Joe Smash Burger is a modern twist on two classic American favorites: the Sloppy Joe and the smash burger. Sloppy Joes have roots dating back to the early 20th century in the United States, often credited to a cook named Joe at a Sioux City caf in the 1930s. Traditionally, they consisted of ground beef simmered in a tangy tomato-based sauce, served on a soft bun. Smash burgers, on the other hand, emerged in the 1950s and 1960s, popularized by diners in the Midwest who flattened patties on a hot griddle to achieve a caramelized, crispy crust. Combining these two concepts creates a rich, indulgent sandwich that is both saucy and satisfyingly crispy.

Regional Variations

While the Sloppy Joe originated in the Midwest, its fusion with the smash burger has become more popular in urban centers across the United States. In New York and Chicago, chefs often add local twists such as pickled jalapeos or smoked cheeses, while West Coast versions may incorporate avocado or artisanal buns. Southern variations might include a spicier tomato-based sauce or pimento cheese, reflecting the regions penchant for bold flavors. Despite regional differences, the core idea remains the same: a juicy, flavorful patty topped with Sloppy Joe sauce, pressed for maximum texture.

Differences from Similar Dishes

While a standard Sloppy Joe is soft, messy, and served on a hamburger bun, a Sloppy Joe Smash Burger differentiates itself with the crispy edges and thin texture of a smash burger patty. Unlike traditional cheeseburgers, the Sloppy Joe component adds a saucy, slightly sweet and tangy element that seeps into the meat, creating layers of flavor. Unlike sloppy tacos or chili burgers, it maintains a balance of structure and messiness, allowing for an indulgent yet manageable eating experience.

Typical Serving Occasions

These burgers are most commonly found in casual dining settings, diners, and gastropubs. They are popular at backyard cookouts, barbecues, and sports events due to their satisfying combination of crispy patties and rich sauce. Many gourmet burger joints have also adopted them as a specialty item, often pairing them with fries, coleslaw, or craft sodas to complement the bold flavors.

Interesting Facts

• The term "Sloppy Joe" was originally used to describe a type of loose-fitting sandwich, reflecting its messy nature.
• Smash burgers achieve their signature texture due to the Maillard reaction, which caramelizes the meats surface, giving it an irresistible crust.
• Combining the Sloppy Joe and smash burger into a single recipe represents the modern American culinary trend of hybrid comfort foods.
• Despite its indulgence, the Sloppy Joe Smash Burger has inspired home cooks and professional chefs alike to experiment with variations, including vegetarian and plant-based versions.
• This burger exemplifies the American love for creative comfort food, blending nostalgia with culinary innovation.

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