Guests find this dip absolutely irresistible! It works for literally any occasion

Sloppy Joes have been a staple in American comfort food for decades, known for their savory, sweet, and tangy meat sauce sandwiched between soft hamburger buns. Though their true origins are a bit murky, with multiple claims to fame from various parts of the United States, the Sloppy Joe in its many forms has become a beloved classic at family dinners, barbecues, and diners. Taking a creative twist on the traditional Sloppy Joe sandwich, this Sloppy Joe Dip transforms the familiar flavors into a deliciously rich and hearty dip that's perfect for sharing at gatherings, game nights, or as a fun family meal.

When serving the Best Sloppy Joe Dip, it's all about the sides that enable scooping and dipping. Classic accompaniments like toasted baguette slices, tortilla chips, or thick-cut potato chips are the perfect vehicles for getting every bit of the meaty goodness. To balance out the richness, consider offering a side of crisp veggies such as carrot sticks, bell pepper strips, or cucumber slices. This dip also pairs wonderfully alongside simple salads or coleslaw for those looking for a lighter side to complement the hearty dip.

Ingredients:

- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon mustard powder
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional for added heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
- Green onions or fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and crumbled, then drain any excess fat.

2. Add the diced onion and green bell pepper to the skillet with the beef, and sauté until the vegetables are tender. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

3. Lower the heat, and mix in ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, mustard powder, and chili powder if using. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and let the mixture simmer for about 5 to 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

4. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees Celsius).

5. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and cream cheese into the meat mixture until well combined and the cheeses are melted.

6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake in the oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the dip is bubbling and heated through.

7. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with sliced green onions or chopped parsley if desired.

8. Serve warm with your selection of dippable sides and enjoy the comforting flavors of this twist on a classic!