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Instructions:
- Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook slowly, stirring often, for 15 to 20 minutes until deeply golden and caramelized.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Push the onions to one side of the skillet and add the ground beef. Cook until fully browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess grease if needed.
- Sprinkle the flour over the beef and onion mixture and stir well to coat evenly.
- Slowly pour in the beef broth while stirring, allowing the sauce to thicken.
- Stir in Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, salt, black pepper, and thyme. Simmer for 5 to 7 minutes until rich and glossy.
- Spoon the beef mixture onto toasted buns and top with a slice of cheese.
- Cover briefly or broil for a minute or two until the cheese is melted. Serve hot.
Variations
- Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Add sliced mushrooms with the onions for extra depth and a true French onion feel.
- Swap provolone for Gruyère to lean even more into the soup-inspired flavor.
- Add a splash of balsamic vinegar for extra richness.
Tips
- Take your time caramelizing the onions; this step builds most of the flavor.
- Stir frequently once the flour is added to prevent lumps.
- Toast the buns to keep them from getting soggy.
- These sloppy joes reheat well and taste even better the next day.