Cheesy Sloppy Joe Stromboli

Cheesy Sloppy Joe Stromboli combines the hearty flavors of ground beef simmered with onions, tomato sauce, and just a hint of mustard all wrapped up with creamy Colby cheese in golden pizza dough. The sweet touch of brown sugar balances the tangy tomato and mustard while the buttery crust bakes to a perfect crisp. It is a deliciously gooey and savory meal that works wonderfully for family dinners, game days, or potlucks.

I made this one Sunday to use leftover ground beef and my family instantly loved it. Now it is a staple for movie nights and casual get togethers because everyone asks for it again and again.

Ingredients

• Ground beef: fresh and high quality is key for the best filling lean or regular works as long as excess fat is drained well
• Yellow onion: adds natural sweetness and depth choose firm onions without soft or damp spots
• Colby cheese: provides melty stretch and mild flavor shredding your own cheese gives a creamier melt than pre shredded
• Canned pizza crust: convenient and crisps nicely Pillsbury works great but any refrigerated or homemade dough is perfect
• Tomato sauce: brings moisture and tang opt for no sugar added to control sweetness if you prefer
• Ketchup: classic tang and sweetness for sloppy joes use your favorite brand
• Yellow mustard: adds bright zip that cuts through the richness
• Brown sugar: balances acidity with a subtle sweetness
• Beef bouillon powder: boosts umami and deepens beef flavor taste before adding extra salt
• Onion powder and garlic powder: add backbone and enhance overall flavor fresh works but powders blend smoothly
• Salt and black pepper: heighten all the flavors and round out the taste
• Worcestershire sauce: essential for deep savory umami layers
• Melted butter: brushed over the crust for shiny golden color and rich taste

Instructions

Prep and Brown the Filling:

Cook the diced onion and ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. Stir often and break the meat apart until it is just no longer pink. This usually takes about seven to ten minutes. Drain excess fat thoroughly to keep the filling from becoming soggy.

Season and Make It Saucy:

Stir in Worcestershire sauce, beef bouillon powder, onion powder, garlic powder, salt and pepper so everything is well combined. Pour in tomato sauce, ketchup, mustard, and brown sugar. Mix thoroughly to ensure an even flavor blend. Taste the filling and tweak seasoning if needed. Allow the mixture to cool until warm but not hot to prevent dough from softening during assembly.

Prepare and Stuff the Dough:

Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a light brush of oil. Unroll the pizza crust and carefully stretch it into an even rectangle. Sprinkle half the Colby cheese evenly over the dough, leaving a clean border around the edges for sealing. Spread the warm sloppy joe filling gently on top, then cover with the remaining cheese.

Shape and Seal:

Fold the dough edges toward the center, slightly overlapping and pinch the ends or fold them under to close off the sides. Press firmly to seal the dough well. Cut four or five slits on the top surface to allow steam to escape during baking. Brush the entire surface generously with melted butter to promote browning and add flavor.

Bake to Golden Perfection:

Place the stromboli in the oven preheated to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. Bake for fifteen to twenty minutes or until the crust is deep golden and sounds hollow when tapped. Let the stromboli cool slightly before slicing into thick pieces. Serve warm for best gooey cheesy experience.

I always look forward to slicing into this stromboli and watching the butter golden crust crack open to reveal melty cheese stretching with every pull. Colby cheese is my favorite here because of its mild melt but swapping in mozzarella or Monterey Jack keeps things interesting. Some of the best evenings I have spent were sharing this around the table, laughing and enjoying the comforting mess it makes.

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat slices in a toaster oven or conventional oven for the best texture and to revive that crispy crust. Stromboli freezes beautifully wrapped tightly in plastic and foil for up to one month. Thaw it in the fridge overnight and warm in the oven until hot before serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

Ground turkey can replace beef for a lighter option though it will be less rich. Try cheddar, mozzarella, provolone or pepper jack cheese instead of Colby for varied flavors. For the crust refrigerated crescent roll dough or your own homemade pizza dough are excellent alternatives.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy thick slices alongside a fresh green salad or some roasted vegetables to balance the richness. Cut into finger pieces for a fun party appetizer. Add pickles or a side drizzle of ranch for extra comfort and tang.

Serve warm for the best gooey cheese pull. Leftovers reheat beautifully in the oven to revive the crispy crust.

FAQs About This Recipe

→ Can I use a different cheese?

Yes, cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, or provolone work well and add different flavors and textures.

→ Is homemade dough suitable?

Absolutely, homemade pizza dough is great when rolled into a rectangle for easy filling and folding.

→ How to prevent filling from leaking?

Allow the filling to cool before assembly, do not overfill, and seal the dough edges firmly to avoid leaks.

→ How should leftovers be stored?

Keep slices in an airtight container in the fridge up to three days and reheat in an oven or toaster oven for best texture.

→ Can additional fillings be added?

Yes, ingredients like bell peppers or mushrooms can be included for varied flavors without overpowering the main taste.