Can I make this dip in advance for a party?

Absolutely! Prepare the meat mixture up to two days ahead, refrigerate, then reheat on the stovetop, add the cheese, and broil just before serving. This is a great way to reduce party-day stress.

My dip seems too thin. How can I thicken it?

If your dip hasn't reached your desired thickness, make another small batch of cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon cold water), add it to the hot mixture, and cook for another 1-2 minutes while stirring constantly.

Can I make this in a slow cooker instead?

Yes! Brown the meat mixture on the stovetop first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 2-3 hours. Stir in 1 cup of cheese during the last 30 minutes, then top with remaining cheese just before serving.

What's the best way to serve this for a large group?

For large gatherings, consider making a double batch and keeping it warm in a slow cooker. Place a basket of toasted bread pieces nearby with small plates and napkins so guests can help themselves throughout the event.

Sloppy Joe Dip Recipe

Description

This Sloppy Joe Dip is a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s packed with robust flavor! Combining savory ground beef, zesty ketchup, melted cheddar cheese, and a touch of sweetness, this cheesy dip is broiled to golden perfection. Perfectly served warm with toasted baguettes or bagel chips for dipping, it’s the ultimate snack for game days, parties, or any casual gathering.

Ingredients

Units Scale

For the Beef Mixture:
2 pounds ground beef
1 small yellow onion, diced (about 1/2 cup)
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon garlic powder
2 teaspoons kosher salt
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 cup beef broth
1 1/2 cups ketchup
2 teaspoons yellow mustard
For Thickening:
3 tablespoons cornstarch
3 tablespoons water
For Topping and Serving:
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
toasted baguettes or bagel chips

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Instructions

Preheat the broiler:
Set the oven to broil and adjust the top oven rack to about 6 inches from the broiler.
Cook the beef mixture:
Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef, diced onions, brown sugar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until combined and continue to cook until the beef is fully browned. Drain off any excess grease if necessary.
Incorporate the sauces:
Pour in the beef broth, ketchup, and mustard, stirring until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
Thicken the mixture:
In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and water to form a slurry. Slowly pour this mixture into the skillet while stirring. Continue cooking until the mixture thickens to your desired consistency.
Add cheese and mix:
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese melts into the beef mixture.
Top with cheese:
Spread the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese over the top of the beef mixture.
Broil until bubbly:
Place the skillet under the broiler and broil for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese on top is hot and bubbly.
Serve immediately:
Serve the dip warm with toasted baguettes or bagel chips for dipping.

Notes

For an extra kick, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes when cooking the beef mixture.
You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
If you don’t have an oven-safe skillet, transfer the beef mixture to a casserole dish before topping with cheese and broiling.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat before serving.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 390
Sugar: 9g
Sodium: 980mg
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Unsaturated Fat: 13g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 13g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 27g
Cholesterol: 100mg