Enjoy the luscious fusion of bacon, ground beef, and a delightful blend of sauces in your kitchen with this Western Bacon Cheeseburger Sloppy Joes recipe. It's a copycat version of the iconic Carl's Jr burger that you can easily recreate at home. Get ready for an explosion of flavors that will remind you of your favorite fast-food joint.
Most of the ingredients for this recipe are standard pantry items, such as onion, ground pepper, beef broth, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and hamburger buns. The standout component here is the KC Masterpiece Hickory Flavored BBQ Sauce, which might not be readily available in every household. It's a smoky, rich, and sweet sauce that adds a depth of flavor to the sloppy joes. If it's not available in your local supermarket, any hickory flavored BBQ sauce should work as a substitute.
Ingredients for Western Bacon Cheeseburger Sloppy Joes
Bacon: This is used to add a smoky and salty flavor to the dish. It will be cooked until crispy and then finely chopped.
Lean ground beef: This is the primary protein in this dish. Lean is preferred to keep the dish from becoming too greasy.
Yellow onion: It adds a slight sweetness and crunch to the dish.
Kosher salt and coarse ground black pepper: These add additional flavor to the ground beef.
Beef broth: It adds moisture and helps break down the ground beef for a finer texture.
Kc masterpiece hickory flavored bbq sauce: It brings a smoky, sweet, and tangy flavor to the dish.
Ketchup: This common condiment adds sweet and tangy notes.
Worcestershire sauce: It enhances the overall flavor with its complex savory taste.
Hamburger buns: These will hold your sloppy joe filling.
American cheese: It adds a creamy, mild, and slightly tangy flavor.
One reader, Kanya Houston says:
This western bacon cheeseburger sloppy joes recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are spot on, and it's so easy to make. It's a hit with my family every time. The combination of bacon, cheese, and BBQ sauce is simply irresistible. It's a must-try for any burger lover!
Cooking Techniques for Western Bacon Cheeseburger Sloppy Joes
How to cook bacon: In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until it is crispy but still chewy. This should take about 4-5 minutes per side. Once done, remove the bacon from the skillet and let it cool for 1 minute before chopping it finely.
How to sear ground beef: In the same skillet, add the lean ground beef and onions. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is seared and the onions are translucent. Break apart the beef while cooking, leaving some chunks for texture.
How to make the sloppy joe mixture: After searing the beef, add the beef broth, ketchup, hickory-flavored BBQ sauce, and Worcestershire sauce to the skillet. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Cook for an additional 5 to 6 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and the flavors to meld, creating a deliciously sloppy texture.
How to assemble the sloppy joes: Once the sloppy joe mixture is ready, spoon it onto the hamburger buns. Top each portion with a slice of American cheese and the finely chopped crispy bacon. Serve the sloppy joes open-faced or sandwich-style, as desired.
How To Make Western Bacon Cheeseburger Sloppy Joes (Carl’s Jr Copycat) Recipe
Your favorite flavors from Carl’s Jr’s western bacon cheeseburger in sloppy joes. The smoky barbecue sauce adds so much flavor to the ground meat.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 6slicesbacon
- 1½lbslean ground beef
- 1yellow onion,diced
- ½tspkosher salt
- ¼tspcoarse ground black pepper
- 1cupbeef broth
- ¾cupKC Masterpiece Hickory Flavored BBQ Sauce
- ¼cupketchup
- 1tbspworcestershire sauce
- 4hamburger buns,sesame seed
- 4slicesAmerican Cheese
Instructions
-
In a large skillet add the bacon and cook until crispy, but still chewy.
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Remove from the pan and let cool for 1 minute before chopping finely.
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Drain all but 2 tablespoons of the bacon grease.
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Add the beef and onions, cooking well for 5 to 6 minutes until seared, breaking it apart but leaving some chunks.
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Add in the beef broth, ketchup, bbq sauce, and Worcestershire sauce
-
Cook for about 5 to 6 minutes until the sauce starts to evaporate and the mixture becomes “sloppy”.
Nutrition
- Calories: 931.07kcal
- Fat: 58.44g
- Saturated Fat: 22.34g
- Trans Fat: 2.07g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 24.60g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 4.58g
- Carbohydrates: 53.90g
- Fiber: 1.98g
- Sugar: 26.20g
- Protein: 45.11g
- Cholesterol: 162.92mg
- Sodium: 1661.60mg
- Calcium: 246.94mg
- Potassium: 1034.06mg
- Iron: 5.96mg
- Vitamin A: 21.64µg
- Vitamin C: 4.35mg
Pro Tip for Perfecting Your Sloppy Joe Technique
When cooking the bacon, ensure it's crispy yet still chewy. This texture will add a delightful contrast to the ground beef in your sloppy joe. Additionally, when adding the beef broth, ketchup, bbq sauce, and worcestershire sauce, make sure to let it cook until the sauce starts to evaporate. This will give your sloppy joe the perfect consistency, not too dry and not too wet. Remember, the key to a great sloppy joe is in the balance of flavors and textures.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Carl's Jr Inspired Dish
Prep ahead: Chop and measure ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.
One-pot wonders: Opt for recipes that require minimal dishes and cook everything in a single pot or pan.
Batch cooking: Make a larger quantity and freeze individual portions for quick and easy meals later.
Time-saving tools: Utilize kitchen gadgets like food processors and slow cookers to expedite meal preparation.
Efficient organization: Keep your kitchen well-organized to easily locate ingredients and cooking tools.
Substitute Ingredients For Western Bacon Cheeseburger Sloppy Joes (Carl’s Jr Copycat) Recipe
bacon - Substitute with turkey bacon: Turkey bacon is a leaner alternative to traditional bacon and can provide a similar smoky flavor to the dish.
lean ground beef - Substitute with ground turkey: Ground turkey is a healthier alternative to beef and can be used as a lean protein in the recipe.
yellow onion - Substitute with white onion: White onions have a slightly milder flavor compared to yellow onions and can be used as a substitute in this recipe.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used as a substitute for kosher salt, providing a similar level of saltiness to the dish.
coarse ground black pepper - Substitute with ground white pepper: Ground white pepper can be used as a substitute for black pepper, providing a slightly different flavor profile to the dish.
beef broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can be used as a substitute for beef broth, providing a lighter flavor to the dish.
kc masterpiece hickory flavored bbq sauce - Substitute with homemade hickory flavored bbq sauce: Making a homemade hickory flavored BBQ sauce allows for customization and control over the ingredients used.
ketchup - Substitute with tomato paste: Tomato paste can be used as a substitute for ketchup, providing a more concentrated tomato flavor to the dish.
worcestershire sauce - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can be used as a substitute for Worcestershire sauce, providing a similar depth of flavor to the dish.
hamburger buns - Substitute with brioche buns: Brioche buns can add a rich and slightly sweet flavor to the dish, elevating the overall taste and texture.
american cheese - Substitute with cheddar cheese: Cheddar cheese can be used as a substitute for American cheese, providing a sharper and more pronounced flavor to the dish.
How to Plate and Present Western Bacon Cheeseburger Sloppy Joes
Elevate the plating: Arrange the sloppy joe mixture on the bottom half of the toasted hamburger bun, ensuring a generous and visually appealing portion.
Garnish with crispy bacon: Place the finely chopped crispy bacon on top of the sloppy joe mixture, adding a delightful crunch and smoky flavor to the dish.
Melt the cheese perfectly: Lay a slice of American cheese over the bacon, allowing it to melt slightly from the warmth of the sloppy joe mixture.
Balance the flavors: Ensure that the flavors are harmoniously balanced, with the sweetness of the barbecue sauce, the savory beef, and the tangy notes from the Worcestershire sauce shining through.
Present with finesse: Carefully place the top half of the hamburger bun on the side, slightly ajar, allowing the vibrant and enticing colors of the sloppy joe to peek through.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making This Copycat Recipe
- Skillet: A flat-bottomed pan used for frying, searing, and browning ingredients.
- Chopping board: A sturdy surface for cutting and chopping ingredients.
- Knife: Used for slicing, dicing, and chopping various ingredients.
- Spatula: A kitchen tool with a broad, flat, flexible blade used for lifting and flipping foods.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accurately measuring ingredients.
- Large mixing spoon: Used for stirring and mixing ingredients in a large bowl or pot.
- Large skillet: A wide, flat-bottomed pan used for cooking a variety of dishes.
- Meat thermometer: Essential for checking the internal temperature of the ground beef to ensure it's fully cooked.
- Cutting board: A durable surface for cutting and preparing ingredients.
- Stove: Used for cooking and heating ingredients in the skillet.
Storage and Freezing Instructions for Leftover Sloppy Joes
- Let the sloppy joe mixture cool completely before storing or freezing.
- To store in the refrigerator, transfer the cooled mixture to an airtight container and keep it refrigerated for up to 3-4 days.
- When ready to serve, reheat the mixture in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of beef broth or water if the mixture seems too thick.
- For freezing, transfer the cooled sloppy joe mixture to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents, and freeze for up to 3 months.
- To reheat from frozen, thaw the mixture in the refrigerator overnight.
- Once thawed, transfer the mixture to a saucepan and reheat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Add a splash of beef broth or water if needed to achieve the desired consistency.
- Serve the reheated sloppy joes on fresh hamburger buns with a slice of American cheese and crispy bacon for the ultimate western bacon cheeseburger experience.
How To Reheat Sloppy Joe Leftovers
The best way to reheat leftover western bacon cheeseburger sloppy joes is to use a skillet on the stovetop. Place the desired amount of sloppy joe mixture into a skillet over medium heat and stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-7 minutes. This method helps to maintain the texture and flavor of the ground beef and onions.
Another option is to use the microwave. Place the sloppy joe mixture in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until heated to your liking. While this method is quick and convenient, it may result in a slightly softer texture compared to the stovetop method.
For a crispy twist, try reheating your sloppy joes in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the leftover mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and slightly crispy on top. This method works well if you have a larger quantity of leftovers and want to reheat them all at once.
If you have leftover hamburger buns, you can also reheat them in the oven. Wrap the buns in aluminum foil and place them in the preheated oven for 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through. This will help to restore their softness and freshness.
For a quick and easy lunch, transform your leftover sloppy joes into a quesadilla. Place the mixture between two tortillas with some shredded cheddar cheese, then cook in a skillet or on a griddle until the tortillas are crispy and the cheese is melted. Cut into wedges and serve with sour cream and salsa for a delicious twist on the classic dish.
Interesting Trivia About Western Bacon Cheeseburger Sloppy Joes
Carl's Jr is known for its innovative and indulgent menu items, such as the Western Bacon Cheeseburger.
Is Making This Copycat Recipe at Home Cost-Effective?
The cost-effectiveness of this western bacon cheeseburger sloppy joes recipe largely depends on the availability and prices of the ingredients in your area. Ground beef, bacon, and onions are generally affordable, while the cost of condiments and cheese may vary. Considering the quantity and the fact that it serves 4, the approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $20-$25. The overall verdict for this recipe would be an 8/10 for its flavorful combination of beef, bacon, and cheese, creating a delicious and satisfying meal at a reasonable cost.
Is This Sloppy Joe Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?
This western bacon cheeseburger sloppy joe recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. The main culprits are:
- High saturated fat content from the bacon, ground beef, and American cheese
- Excessive sodium from the bacon, cheese, and various sauces
- Added sugars in the BBQ sauce and ketchup
- Refined carbohydrates in the hamburger buns
Consuming this dish regularly could contribute to health issues such as obesity, high blood pressure, and heart disease.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:
- Swap the bacon for a leaner protein like turkey bacon or omit it altogether
- Use lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef to reduce saturated fat
- Opt for whole wheat or multigrain buns to increase fiber intake
- Choose reduced-sugar BBQ sauce and ketchup, or make your own with less added sugars
- Incorporate more vegetables into the sloppy joe mixture, such as diced bell peppers or shredded carrots
- Use reduced-fat cheese or a smaller amount of regular cheese to decrease the overall fat content
- Serve the sloppy joes with a side salad or roasted vegetables to balance out the meal
Editor's Opinion on This Sloppy Joe Recipe
The combination of crispy bacon, lean ground beef, and a flavorful sauce creates a delicious and indulgent dish. The use of hickory-flavored BBQ sauce and Worcestershire sauce adds depth to the flavor profile, while the addition of American cheese brings a creamy and rich element. The incorporation of these ingredients in a sloppy joe format provides a unique twist to the classic Western bacon cheeseburger, making it a delightful and satisfying meal.
Enhance Your Western Bacon Cheeseburger Sloppy Joes (Carl’s Jr Copycat) Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Similar Recipes to Try If You Like These Sloppy Joes
Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for This Sloppy Joe Recipe
Why trust this Western Bacon Cheeseburger Sloppy Joes (Carl’s Jr Copycat) Recipe:
This recipe guarantees a mouthwatering experience with bacon, ground beef, and onions, creating a savory base. The addition of beef broth, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce infuses rich flavors. The use of KC Masterpiece Hickory Flavored BBQ Sauce elevates the taste, while the American cheese adds a creamy finish. Trust the combination of these high-quality ingredients to deliver a sloppy joe that rivals the famous Carl's Jr creation.
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