Sloppy Joe Cornbread Cups

These Sloppy Joe Cornbread Cups are a fun, bite-sized twist on the classic sloppy joe, combining a savory, juicy beef filling with a fluffy, cornbread topping. The cheesy finish adds a delicious touch, making them a perfect comfort food for any night of the week.

What’s great about this recipe is its versatility — you can use ground turkey or chicken in place of beef, or even go vegetarian by using lentils. It’s also a great meal prep idea since it stores well in the fridge and reheats wonderfully, making it perfect for busy weekdays.

Full recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1/2 cup onion, chopped

• 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce

• 1 tablespoon brown sugar

• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

• 1 tablespoon mustard

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1 box (8.5 oz) cornbread mix

• 1/4 cup milk

• 1 egg

• 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a muffin tin and set aside.

2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and chopped onion over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.

3. Add the tomato sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the beef mixture. Stir to combine, then simmer for 5-7 minutes, until the mixture thickens slightly.

4. In a medium bowl, prepare the cornbread batter according to the package instructions by adding the milk, egg, and cornbread mix.

5. Spoon a little cornbread batter into each muffin cup, then top with the sloppy joe mixture.

6. Spoon the remaining cornbread batter over the sloppy joe mixture, filling the cups almost to the top.

7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

8. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese. Let cool slightly before serving.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes Kcal: 280 kcal per serving | Servings: 12 servings

A Twist on a Classic Comfort Food

Sloppy joes have been a staple in American homes for decades. The classic sloppy joe is typically made with ground beef, onions, and a tangy tomato-based sauce, all sandwiched between buns. This hearty meal has long been a go-to for families, offering a simple yet satisfying dish that appeals to both kids and adults.

However, the Sloppy Joe Cornbread Cups take things up a notch by adding a twist: instead of the usual sandwich bread, the sloppy joe filling is topped with a delicious cornbread batter, which bakes to perfection. The slightly sweet and fluffy cornbread adds the perfect contrast to the savory, spiced sloppy joe filling, creating a well-balanced and mouthwatering bite. The cornbread topping provides a golden, slightly crispy texture that complements the soft and juicy filling, resulting in a mini-meal that’s hard to resist.

Why You’ll Love Sloppy Joe Cornbread Cups

There are several reasons why Sloppy Joe Cornbread Cups are a great addition to your recipe collection. They’re versatile, fun, and can be adapted to suit a variety of dietary preferences. Here are some reasons to love this dish:

• Convenient and Easy to Make: One of the biggest advantages of Sloppy Joe Cornbread Cups is how easy they are to make. With just a few simple ingredients and a muffin tin, you can create a meal that’s both flavorful and impressive. There’s no need for fancy equipment, and you can have these cups ready to serve in under an hour. It’s a perfect option for busy families or those looking to get a delicious dinner on the table without much fuss.

• Customizable: The recipe for Sloppy Joe Cornbread Cups is highly adaptable. You can switch up the type of meat in the filling, using ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a lighter option. Alternatively, you can skip the meat altogether and use plant-based substitutes to create a vegetarian or vegan version. The cornbread batter can also be customized with additional ingredients such as cheese, jalapeños, or herbs, allowing you to make these cups your own.

• Kid-Friendly: If you have picky eaters at home, Sloppy Joe Cornbread Cups are an excellent option. The combination of flavors is sure to appeal to kids, and the small, individual servings make them more fun to eat. These cups are also easy to portion, making them perfect for feeding a crowd or hosting a family dinner.

• Perfect for Parties and Gatherings: Whether you’re hosting a game day party, a casual get-together, or a potluck, Sloppy Joe Cornbread Cups are a crowd-pleaser. They’re portable, easy to serve, and can be made in advance, making them an excellent option for entertaining. Guests can grab a cup and enjoy without the need for utensils, making these cups a convenient and hassle-free option for parties.

Healthier Options and Substitutions

While Sloppy Joe Cornbread Cups are undeniably delicious, they can also be made a bit healthier with a few simple substitutions. For those who are watching their calorie intake, consider using lean ground beef or ground turkey in place of regular ground beef. You can also substitute the cornbread mix with a homemade version that uses whole wheat flour or almond flour for a healthier, lower-carb option.

To make the dish even lighter, you can skip the cheese or use a reduced-fat variety. If you’re looking to reduce the sodium content, you can use low-sodium tomato sauce and Worcestershire sauce. There are plenty of ways to make this dish more nutritious while still maintaining its mouthwatering flavor.

Making Sloppy Joe Cornbread Cups for Meal Prep

Sloppy Joe Cornbread Cups are also an excellent choice for meal prep. Since they store well in the fridge and reheat beautifully, you can make a batch ahead of time and have a quick, tasty meal ready to go whenever you need it. To store, simply place the cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to eat, heat them in the microwave for a few seconds or warm them up in the oven for an extra crispy top.

These cups can also be frozen for longer storage. To freeze, allow them to cool completely, then wrap them individually in plastic wrap or foil. Store them in a freezer-safe bag or container, and when you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as usual.

Serving Suggestions for Sloppy Joe Cornbread Cups

Sloppy Joe Cornbread Cups are a complete meal on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Here are a few ideas for serving these tasty cups:

• Salads: A fresh salad can provide a crisp contrast to the rich and savory flavor of the sloppy joe filling. Try serving your Sloppy Joe Cornbread Cups with a light green salad or a tangy coleslaw to balance out the flavors.

• Vegetables: Roasted or steamed vegetables are an excellent accompaniment to this dish. Opt for broccoli, green beans, or a medley of roasted root vegetables to add some color and nutrients to your meal.

• Potato Sides: If you’re looking to amp up the comfort food factor, mashed potatoes, potato wedges, or a side of crispy fries will pair perfectly with Sloppy Joe Cornbread Cups.

• Pickles and Chips: For a more casual, snack-like experience, serve your Sloppy Joe Cornbread Cups with a side of crunchy potato chips and dill pickles. The salty, vinegary pickle pairs perfectly with the rich, cheesy cups.

Conclusion: A Delicious Twist on a Family Favorite

In conclusion, Sloppy Joe Cornbread Cups offer a fun, delicious twist on a family favorite. They combine the hearty, savory goodness of a classic sloppy joe with the sweet, fluffy texture of cornbread, resulting in a dish that’s perfect for dinner, parties, or meal prep. These cups are highly customizable, making them a versatile option for various dietary preferences and taste buds. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a quiet family meal, Sloppy Joe Cornbread Cups are sure to be a hit at your table. With their convenience, flavor, and fun presentation, they are a dish that will become a go-to in your recipe collection.