Description
A comforting twist on classic sloppy joes featuring caramelized onions and rich beef, perfect for autumn.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (choose good-quality beef)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 4–6 brioche or homemade rolls
- Optional: sliced Swiss or Gruyère for melting
Instructions
- Heat butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Cook slowly, stirring every few minutes, until onions are deep golden brown and jammy, about 30–40 minutes. If they start to stick, splash a little water or beef broth.
- Push onions to the side and increase heat to medium. Add ground beef and cook until no longer pink, breaking it into pieces. Drain any excess fat if needed.
- Stir in garlic, tomato paste, brown sugar, thyme, balsamic vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce. Add beef broth to loosen the mixture. Simmer for 8–10 minutes until the flavors meld and the mixture thickens. Adjust salt and pepper.
- Spoon the French-onion beef mixture onto warmed rolls. Top with sliced Swiss or Gruyère and briefly broil to melt, if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
Caramelizing onions correctly is key for deep flavor. Adjust seasonings to your taste for the perfect balance.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet Cooking
- Cuisine: American