Gourmet Smokey Sloppy Joe and Provolone – Better Than Takeout!

Get ready for a smoky, cheesy spin on a classic comfort food! These Smokey Sloppy Joes with Provolone bring bold flavors together in a lighter way, perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even casual get-togethers. Each bite is packed with savory sauce, lean protein, and gooey provolone cheese—all tucked into a wholesome bun.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bold & Smoky Flavor: Smoked paprika and tomato paste create a deep, rich flavor without extra calories.
Lighter but Filling: Made with lean ground meat and lighter ingredients to keep things satisfying yet smart.
Quick to Prepare: Ready in under 30 minutes—perfect for busy days.
Melty Cheese Goodness: The provolone adds that perfect creamy, melted touch.

Ingredients

For the Sloppy Joe Filling:

• 1 lb lean ground turkey or chicken
• 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
• 1/2 cup finely chopped bell pepper
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1/4 cup reduced-sugar ketchup
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Salt to taste
• Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes for heat

For Serving:

• 4 whole-wheat sandwich thins or light hamburger buns
• 4 slices provolone cheese (reduced-fat if desired)

Instructions

Cook the Filling:

• In a nonstick skillet over medium heat, cook the ground meat until browned, breaking it up with a spatula.
• Add onion, bell pepper, and garlic; sauté until softened, about 4–5 minutes.
• Stir in tomato paste, ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt.
• Reduce heat and simmer for 5–7 minutes, allowing flavors to blend and mixture to thicken.

Toast and Assemble:

• Lightly toast sandwich thins or buns for extra texture.
• Spoon the sloppy joe mixture onto the bottom half of each bun.
• Top with a slice of provolone cheese while hot, so it melts slightly.
• Add the top bun and serve immediately.

Nutritional Information (Per Sandwich, Approximate)

• Calories: 290
• Carbs: 26g
• Protein: 25g
• Fat: 12g
• Fiber: 5g
• Sugar: 5g

Tips for Success

• Go Smokier: Add a few drops of liquid smoke or chipotle chili powder for an even deeper smoky flavor.
• Melt the Cheese Right: If the provolone doesn’t melt enough from the heat, place the assembled sandwich under a broiler for 1 minute.
• Make It a Bowl: Serve the filling over roasted sweet potatoes or cauliflower rice for a low-carb version.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Store filling separately and reheat when ready to serve.

Why This Recipe Works

• Big Flavor, Smart Ingredients: Every bite delivers saucy, cheesy satisfaction without overdoing calories or fat.
• Weeknight Winner: Quick to make, easy to clean up, and tastes like comfort food heaven.
• Flexible & Fun: Works great in buns, wraps, bowls, or even lettuce cups.

This Smokey Sloppy Joe and Provolone sandwich proves that comfort food can be bold, satisfying, and still fit a balanced lifestyle. With lean meat, rich flavor, and melty cheese, it’s a must-try for anyone craving a guilt-free take on an all-American classic.