Gourmet Open-Faced Sloppy Joe Toasts with Crispy Onions

Elevate your Sloppy Joe experience with this gourmet variation. Featuring smoky barbecue beef on toasted sourdough, a blend of melted Gouda and sharp cheddar cheese, and garnished with crispy fried onions and fresh chives, these toasts are perfect for impressing your guests or indulging in a hearty meal. Here’s how to create this flavorful dish.

Ingredients

For the Smoky Barbecue Beef:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 1 small red onion, finely chopped
• 1 small jalapeño, finely diced (optional)
• ¾ cup (180ml) smoky barbecue sauce
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Toast:

• 6 slices of sourdough bread
• 6 slices of Gouda cheese
• 1 cup (100g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese

For Garnish:

• ½ cup (50g) crispy fried onions (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 tbsp finely chopped chives

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Barbecue Beef

1. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess grease.
2. Add the red onion and jalapeño to the skillet and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in barbecue sauce, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5-7 minutes until thickened.

Step 2: Toast the Sourdough

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place the sourdough slices on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven for 5 minutes until slightly crispy.

Step 3: Assemble the Toasts

1. Place a slice of Gouda cheese on each piece of toasted sourdough.
2. Spoon the barbecue beef mixture evenly onto each slice.
3. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top of the beef.

Step 4: Melt the Cheese

1. Return the toasts to the oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
2. Optionally, broil the toasts for 1-2 minutes to achieve a golden cheese crust.

Step 5: Add the Final Touches

1. Garnish each toast with crispy fried onions and a sprinkle of chopped chives.
2. Serve warm and enjoy the gourmet flavors!

Tips for Success

• Use freshly baked sourdough for a sturdy base and rich flavor.
• Experiment with different cheese combinations, such as Gruyere or Fontina, for a unique twist.
• Add a dash of hot sauce or crushed red pepper for a spicy kick.

These Gourmet Open-Faced Sloppy Joe Toasts with Crispy Onions are perfect for dinner parties, casual gatherings, or a satisfying comfort food fix. Combining smoky, cheesy, and crunchy elements, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Try it today and savor every bite!