Sloppy Joe Biscuit Cups

by

Sloppy Joe Biscuit Cups Recipe

Introduction: Sloppy Joe Biscuit Cups are a delicious and fun twist on the classic Sloppy Joe sandwich, served in individual biscuit cups for easy, mess-free enjoyment. This dish combines the savory, tangy ground beef filling of a traditional Sloppy Joe with the buttery, flaky goodness of a biscuit crust. The result is a hearty and satisfying meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or casual parties. You can even customize the filling with different proteins or veggies to suit various tastes. These Sloppy Joe Biscuit Cups are sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike.

Ingredients:

For the Biscuit Cups:

  • 1 can (8 count) refrigerated biscuit dough (preferably flaky layers)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for greasing)
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional for topping)

For the Sloppy Joe Filling:

  • 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup green bell pepper, finely chopped (optional)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon chili powder (optional)

Instructions:

Method for the Biscuit Cups:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a muffin tin with olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  2. Open the can of biscuit dough and separate the biscuits. Use your fingers to gently stretch each biscuit into a larger, flat circle that will fit into the muffin cups.
  3. Press each stretched biscuit into the muffin tin, making sure the dough covers the bottom and sides to form a cup shape.
  4. If desired, sprinkle a small amount of shredded mozzarella cheese into the bottom of each biscuit cup to add an extra layer of flavor.
  5. Bake the biscuit cups for 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the oven and set aside.

Method for the Sloppy Joe Filling:

  1. While the biscuit cups are baking, prepare the Sloppy Joe filling. In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
  3. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper (if using), and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened.
  4. Stir in the ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, mustard, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well and bring it to a simmer.
  5. Let the filling simmer for about 5-7 minutes, or until it thickens and the flavors have melded together. Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary.

Assemble the Sloppy Joe Biscuit Cups:

  1. Once the biscuit cups are baked, spoon the Sloppy Joe mixture into each biscuit cup, filling them generously.
  2. Return the filled cups to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the edges of the biscuit cups are golden and the filling is bubbling.
  3. Remove from the oven and, if desired, top each cup with extra shredded cheese and bake for an additional 1-2 minutes, until melted.
  4. Allow the Sloppy Joe Biscuit Cups to cool slightly before serving.

History of Sloppy Joes:

The origin of the Sloppy Joe sandwich is somewhat debated, but it is widely believed to have originated in the United States in the 1930s. Some sources claim that a cook named Joe at a cafe in Sioux City, Iowa, invented the sandwich by adding a sloppy meat mixture to a bun. Others suggest it was named after a similar dish created by a Cuban cook named José in the 1930s. Regardless of its exact origin, the Sloppy Joe has become a classic American comfort food, particularly beloved for its tangy, sweet, and savory flavor profile.

Benefits of Sloppy Joe Biscuit Cups:

  1. Convenient and Mess-Free: The individual biscuit cups make this dish easy to eat without making a mess, especially for kids.
  2. Customizable: You can easily modify the recipe by swapping the ground beef for turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based protein for a vegetarian version.
  3. Balanced Meal: With a hearty meat filling, biscuits, and the option to add vegetables, this dish provides a good balance of protein, carbs, and healthy fats.
  4. Crowd-Pleaser: These bite-sized cups are perfect for parties, potlucks, or family dinners. Their fun presentation makes them appealing to both kids and adults.
  5. Quick and Easy: This dish can be made in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal weeknight meal for busy families.
  6. Convenient and Mess-Free:
  7. Customizable:
    • Sloppy Joe Biscuit Cups are highly versatile. You can easily swap out the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based protein for a vegetarian or lighter version. You can also add or omit vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms, depending on your taste or dietary preferences.
  8. Balanced Meal:
    • These cups offer a good balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fats. The ground meat provides protein, the biscuit offers carbohydrates, and any cheese or added veggies contribute healthy fats and essential nutrients like vitamins A and C. This makes them a well-rounded meal in one convenient cup.
  9. Crowd-Pleaser:
    • Their bite-sized nature and fun presentation make Sloppy Joe Biscuit Cups perfect for parties, family gatherings, or potlucks. They’re easy to serve, and their flavor profile appeals to a wide range of people, from children to adults. The mini portions make it simple for guests to grab and enjoy without needing utensils.
  10. Quick and Easy to Prepare:
    • Sloppy Joe Biscuit Cups are ideal for busy weeknights. The dish comes together in under 30 minutes, using simple ingredients like canned biscuit dough and ground beef. This makes it a great option for those who need a quick, flavorful, and satisfying meal with minimal prep time.
  11. Flexible Meal Prep Option:
    • You can make a large batch of these Sloppy Joe Biscuit Cups ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze them for later. This is a great way to save time during busy weeks and ensure you have a homemade, ready-to-eat meal whenever you need it. Simply reheat and enjoy.
  12. Kid-Friendly:
    • The combination of biscuit dough and the familiar Sloppy Joe filling makes this dish very appealing to children. It’s a great way to get them to enjoy a balanced meal with protein and vegetables. The fun, handheld format also makes it easier for kids to eat without the hassle of a full sandwich.
  13. Versatile for Dietary Preferences:
    • These cups can be made to suit various dietary needs. You can easily adjust the recipe to make it gluten-free by using gluten-free biscuit dough, or dairy-free by omitting cheese or using plant-based cheese. This makes it a great option for families with mixed dietary restrictions or preferences.
  14. Flavorful and Satisfying:
    • The combination of savory meat, tangy sauce, and the buttery biscuit crust creates a satisfying meal that’s both rich and flavorful. The Sloppy Joe filling, with its mix of sweet, sour, and spicy notes, pairs wonderfully with the soft, slightly crispy biscuit, making each bite full of flavor.
  15. Affordable:
  16. The ingredients needed to make Sloppy Joe Biscuit Cups are generally inexpensive and easy to find at most grocery stores. This makes it an affordable option for feeding a family or a group of people without breaking the bank.

Formation of Sloppy Joe Biscuit Cups:

Sloppy Joe Biscuit Cups are formed by first preparing the biscuit dough to create individual cups in a muffin tin. Once baked, they serve as a base for the hearty and flavorful Sloppy Joe mixture. The filling is typically a combination of ground beef, onions, peppers, and seasonings, creating a tangy, savory mixture that pairs perfectly with the soft biscuit. The biscuit cups are baked again after being filled to allow the flavors to meld, resulting in a satisfying and delicious handheld meal.

Nutrition (Per Serving – 1 Sloppy Joe Biscuit Cup):

  • Calories: 300-350 (depending on the filling and biscuit type)
  • Protein: 15-20g
  • Fat: 18-22g
  • Carbohydrates: 25-30g
  • Fiber: 1-2g
  • Cholesterol: 50-60mg
  • Sodium: 600-800mg
  • Vitamins: High in Vitamin A (from peppers and onions), Vitamin C (from bell pepper), and calcium (from cheese, if used).
  • Minerals: Contains iron, phosphorus, and magnesium from the beef and biscuits.
  • Calories: 300-350 kcalProtein: 15-20gFat: 18-22g
  • Saturated Fat: 7-10g
  • Carbohydrates: 25-30g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1-2g
  • Sugars: 6-8g
  • Cholesterol: 50-60mg
  • Sodium: 600-800mg
  • Potassium: 150-200mg
  • Vitamins & Minerals:
  • Vitamin A: 8-10% DV (from bell peppers, onions, and any cheese used)
  • Vitamin C: 15-20% DV (from bell pepper)
  • Calcium: 10-15% DV (from cheese, if added)
  • Iron: 10-15% DV (from ground beef)
  • Magnesium: 4-6% DV

Factors Influencing Nutrition:

  1. Ground Meat: The type of meat used will significantly affect the fat and calorie content. Lean ground turkey or chicken will be lower in fat and calories compared to ground beef.
  2. Biscuit Dough: Pre-made biscuit dough can be high in fat, sugar, and sodium. For a healthier version, you can use reduced-fat or whole-wheat biscuit dough.
  3. Cheese: Adding cheese, especially full-fat varieties like mozzarella or cheddar, will increase the fat and calorie count. Opting for a lighter cheese or skipping it can help lower the nutritional values.
  4. Sauce and Condiments: The amount of ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and brown sugar in the Sloppy Joe filling can influence sugar and sodium content. You can reduce the sugar and salt by adjusting the recipe or using healthier alternatives.

Sloppy Joe Biscuit Cups provide a balanced combination of protein, fats, and carbohydrates, making them a filling and satisfying meal. While they can be a bit high in fat and sodium, making simple substitutions like lean meats or reduced-fat biscuits and cheese can make the dish healthier. With added vegetables and the option to use alternative ingredients, these cups can be tailored to meet specific dietary needs and preferences while still maintaining their delicious flavor.

They are a good source of protein and vitamins, particularly Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and iron, making them a reasonably nutritious choice for a hearty meal.

Conclusion:

Sloppy Joe Biscuit Cups offer a delightful combination of savory, tangy flavors with the comforting texture of biscuit dough. These portable, bite-sized cups are a creative twist on the classic Sloppy Joe sandwich, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether served as a casual weeknight dinner or as a crowd-pleasing appetizer at a party, they are sure to become a favorite. The customizable filling options also make them a great choice for catering to various dietary preferences, from meat lovers to vegetarians.

Lovers of Sloppy Joe Biscuit Cups:

Sloppy Joe Biscuit Cups are beloved by those who enjoy hearty, satisfying meals with a fun twist. Fans of comfort food, as well as those who appreciate the convenience of individual servings, will find these cups irresistible. They are especially popular with families, as they are both kid-friendly and easy to prepare in large batches. Whether you’re a fan of traditional Sloppy Joes or just looking for a new way to enjoy biscuits, this dish is sure to win over hearts and stomachs alike!

Leave a Comment