Description
Give your classic sloppy joes an exciting twist with these Thai Sloppy Joe Sliders! They’re sweet, savory, a little spicy, and packed with bold Southeast Asian flavors. Served on soft slider buns and topped with crunchy slaw, these mini sandwiches are perfect for game day, parties, or a weeknight dinner with a fun, flavorful punch.
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Ingredients
For the Thai Sloppy Joe Filling:
1 lb ground beef or ground chicken
1 tbsp sesame oil (or vegetable oil)
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
½ small onion, finely chopped
⅓ cup sweet chili sauce
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp tomato paste
1 tbsp brown sugar
1 tbsp lime juice
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Crunchy Slaw Topping:
1 cup shredded cabbage (green or purple)
½ cup shredded carrots
1 green onion, sliced thin
2 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tsp sesame oil
1 tsp honey
Pinch of salt
For Serving:
12 slider buns or Hawaiian rolls
Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Lime wedges (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Slaw
In a medium bowl, combine shredded cabbage, carrots, and green onion.
In a small bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, and salt.
Pour the dressing over the slaw, toss to coat, and set aside to marinate.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat sesame oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add chopped onion, garlic, and ginger. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and soft.
Step 3: Cook the Meat
Add ground beef or chicken to the skillet. Break it up with a spatula and cook until browned and fully cooked through.
Drain any excess fat if needed.
Step 4: Add Thai Sauce Ingredients
Stir in sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, tomato paste, brown sugar, lime juice, and red pepper flakes.
Simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is thick and sticky.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Assemble the Sliders
Slice the slider buns or rolls in half and lightly toast if desired.
Spoon a generous portion of the Thai meat mixture onto the bottom bun.
Top with a spoonful of the slaw, a sprinkle of cilantro, and place the top bun on.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Serve warm with lime wedges on the side for a citrusy pop.
Enjoy immediately while the buns are soft and the filling is saucy.
Notes
Balance the Sauce – Adjust chili sauce, lime juice, or soy to get the right mix of sweet, salty, and tangy.
Toast the Buns – Lightly toasting keeps them from getting soggy.
Make Ahead – The filling and slaw can be prepared ahead of time for easy assembly.
Double for a Crowd – Easily scale up the recipe for parties or events.
Use Mini Buns – Soft slider buns or Hawaiian rolls work best for holding everything in.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Cuisine: American-Thai Fusion