Fried Sloppy Joe Rolls are a delicious and satisfying snack that combines the classic flavors of a Sloppy Joe sandwich with a crispy and crunchy exterior. The tender and seasoned ground beef mixture is wrapped in a soft bread dough, then deep-fried to perfection.

The end result is a savory and indulgent treat that is perfect for any occasion, whether as a game day appetizer or a fun twist on a weeknight meal. With each bite, you’ll experience a burst of flavor and a satisfying combination of textures that will leave you craving more.

Ingredients Needed for This Recipe

For the Sloppy Joe Filling:

1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced

1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
1 cup tomato sauce
2 tablespoons ketchup

1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon mustard
1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon brown sugar

For the Rolls:

12 egg roll wrappers

1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
Oil for frying
1 egg, beaten (for sealing the wrappers)

Instructions for Making Fried Sloppy Joe Rolls

Prepare the Sloppy Joe Filling:

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, onion, garlic, and bell pepper until the meat is browned and the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
Stir in the tomato sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, salt, pepper, and brown sugar. Reduce the heat to low and simmer the mixture for about 10 minutes, until thickened. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

Assemble the Rolls:

Lay an egg roll wrapper on a clean surface, positioning it like a diamond. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the sloppy joe mixture onto the lower half of the wrapper. Sprinkle a generous amount of cheddar cheese on top of the meat.

Fry the Rolls:

Heat oil in a large pan or deep fryer to 375°F (190°C). Fry the rolls in batches, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

Serve:

Serve the fried sloppy joe rolls hot with your choice of dipping sauces, such as ranch dressing, more ketchup, or a spicy mayo.
Brush the edges of the wrapper with the beaten egg. Fold the bottom corner over the filling, then fold in the sides, and roll tightly to enclose the filling completely. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.

Tips for Perfecting the Recipe

Achieve the Right Filling Consistency: The key to a great sloppy joe filling is its consistency. It should be moist enough to provide flavor and juiciness but not so wet that it makes the roll soggy. If your filling is too liquid, simmer it for a longer period to reduce the moisture content. Conversely, if it’s too dry, add a bit more tomato sauce to achieve the desired consistency.

Use Quality Ingredients: The taste of your rolls heavily depends on the quality of the ingredients used. Opt for fresh vegetables and high-quality ground beef. The freshness of the ingredients will enhance the overall flavor of your sloppy joe filling.

Season Well: Don’t shy away from adjusting the seasonings in your sloppy joe mix according to your taste preferences. While the recipe provides a guideline, personal taste varies. If you like it spicier, add a dash of hot sauce or increase the mustard and black pepper. For a sweeter touch, a bit more brown sugar can do the trick.

Rolling Technique: Securing the filling properly within the egg roll wrappers is crucial to prevent leaks while frying. Ensure the edges are sealed well with the beaten egg, which acts as a glue. Rolling them tightly will also help keep the filling intact during the frying process.

Frying to Perfection: The oil temperature is critical when frying the rolls. Oil that’s too hot will burn the wrappers before the inside is heated through, while oil that’s not hot enough can make the rolls greasy. Use a thermometer to keep the oil at the ideal temperature, and don’t overcrowd the pan, as this can lower the oil’s temperature too much.

Serving Suggestions

Fried Sloppy Joe Rolls are versatile and can be served in various contexts, making them perfect for nearly any occasion. Here are some suggestions to elevate your serving game:

Classic Dipping Sauces: Offer a range of dipping sauces to complement the flavors of the sloppy joe filling. Classics include ranch dressing, barbecue sauce, and ketchup. For a gourmet twist, try aioli, spicy mayo, or a tangy mustard sauce.

Side Dishes: Pair your rolls with side dishes that balance the meal. Coleslaw, potato salad, and pickles offer a refreshing contrast to the richness of the fried rolls. For a healthier option, serve with a side of mixed greens or a veggie platter.

Plating: Presentation matters. Arrange the rolls on a platter with dipping sauces in the center for communal sharing, or serve them individually with a side salad for a more formal presentation. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro to add a pop of color.

Storage Tips

Proper storage is essential to maintaining the freshness and quality of your Fried Sloppy Joe Rolls, especially if you’ve made a large batch or have leftovers. Here are the best practices for storing these delicious treats:

Cooling Down: Allow the rolls to cool to room temperature before storing them. Storing them while still hot can cause condensation inside the container, making the rolls soggy.

Refrigeration: Place the cooled rolls in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To prevent them from sticking together, you can layer them between sheets of parchment paper.

Freezing: For longer storage, freezing is an excellent option. Wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag or airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. This method is great for having a quick snack or meal ready to go.

Reheating: When ready to eat, reheat the rolls to bring back their crispy texture. If refrigerated, baking them in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes works well. For frozen rolls, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating, or adjust the oven time accordingly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other meats for the filling? Yes, you can easily substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a vegetarian ground meat alternative for a lighter or vegetarian version of this dish.

What if I don’t have egg roll wrappers? If egg roll wrappers are unavailable, you can use phyllo dough or even tortillas as a substitute. Keep in mind that the cooking time and technique may vary slightly.

How can I make this recipe healthier? To make a healthier version, consider using lean ground meat and baking the rolls instead of frying. You can brush them lightly with oil and bake until crispy. This reduces the oil content significantly.

Can I make these rolls ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the sloppy joe mixture and even assemble the rolls ahead of time. Keep them refrigerated until you’re ready to fry or bake. If you choose to freeze them, you can extend their shelf life and have a quick meal option ready.

How do I prevent the rolls from opening while frying? Ensuring the edges are well sealed with egg wash is crucial. Additionally, do not overcrowd the pan, as flipping them too soon or too frequently can cause them to open. Let them fry sufficiently on one side before gently turning them over.