Slow Cooker Root Beer Sloppy Joe Sliders

Slow Cooker Root Beer Sloppy Joe Sliders are mini sandwiches packed with sweet, tangy, and savory beef cooked in a root beer-infused sauce. Perfect for parties, game days, or easy weeknight dinners, these sliders are juicy, flavorful, and irresistible.

Slow Cooker Root Beer Sloppy Joe Sliders are the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer or casual dinner.

Mini buns are piled high with juicy, savory beef cooked in a sweet and tangy root beer sauce, creating bite-sized sandwiches that disappear fast.

Perfect for game days, parties, or busy weeknights, these sliders are easy, hands-off, and packed with flavor.

Why You Will Love This Recipe!

• Sweet and tangy root beer adds a fun twist to classic Sloppy Joes.
• Bite-sized sliders are perfect for parties, game days, or family meals.
• Slow cooker method makes it hands-off and easy to prepare.
• Juicy, flavorful beef filling that disappears fast every time.
• Uses simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.

Ingredients Needed

• Ground beef, browned: Juicy, flavorful base for Sloppy Joe slider filling
• Small onion, finely diced: Adds sweetness and depth to savory mixture
• Green and red bell pepper, finely diced: Colorful, crunchy flavor for extra texture
• Garlic, minced: Fresh garlic enhances overall savory, aromatic taste
• Root beer, not diet: Sweet, tangy liquid adds unique depth to sauce
• Ketchup: Classic tomato base for rich, tangy Sloppy Joe sauce
• Brown sugar: Adds sweetness to balance tangy and savory flavors
• Worcestershire sauce: Boosts umami with rich, savory depth
• Yellow mustard: Adds tangy, slightly sharp flavor to sauce
• Salt: Enhances all flavors and balances savory ingredients
• Black pepper: Provides subtle heat and depth throughout mixture
• Garlic powder: Boosts garlic flavor for extra aromatic taste
• Onion powder: Adds concentrated onion flavor for extra savory notes
• Quick cooking oatmeal: Helps thicken mixture and bind the sauce
• Slider buns: Soft, perfect vessels for juicy Sloppy Joe filling
• Optional cheddar cheese or pickles: Adds extra flavor, creaminess, or crunch

How To Make Slow Cooker Root Beer Sloppy Joe Sliders

Step 1: Place the browned ground beef, diced onions, minced garlic, and bell peppers into the slow cooker.

Step 2: In a small bowl, whisk together root beer, ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until smooth.

Step 3: Pour the sauce over the beef mixture and stir gently to combine. Cover and cook on Low for 4–6 hours or High for 2–3 hours.

Step 4: Serve the Sloppy Joe mixture on slider buns, topping with cheddar cheese or pickles if desired.

Slow Cooker Root Beer Sloppy Joe Sliders Recipe Tips

• Use full-flavored root beer (not diet) for the best sweet and tangy taste.
• Browning the ground beef before adding it to the slow cooker enhances flavor and texture.
• Stir the sauce well to coat all the meat and vegetables evenly.
• Adjust seasoning to taste, add more salt, pepper, or mustard if desired.
• For thicker Sloppy Joes, cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes to reduce excess liquid.
• Optional toppings like cheddar cheese or pickles add extra flavor and texture.

Storing Instructions

Store leftover Sloppy Joe mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of root beer or ketchup if the mixture is too thick. Keep slider buns stored separately and warm just before serving.

Slow Cooker Root Beer Sloppy Joe Sliders Recipe Faqs

Can I use a different type of soda? Yes, you can substitute another sweet, carbonated soda like cola or cream soda, though root beer gives the best sweet-tangy flavor.

Can I make this with ground turkey or chicken? Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works well; adjust cooking time slightly and ensure it’s fully cooked.

Can I prepare this ahead of time? Yes, assemble the ingredients in the slow cooker the night before and refrigerate. Cook the next day, adding about 30 extra minutes if needed.

Can I freeze leftovers? Yes, store cooled Sloppy Joe mixture in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

How can I thicken the sauce if it’s too runny? Stir in a small amount of quick-cooking oatmeal, cornstarch, or cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes to reduce excess liquid.

Can I make this on the stovetop instead of a slow cooker? Yes, cook the beef, vegetables, and sauce in a large skillet over medium heat, simmering until thickened and fully cooked.

What can I serve with these sliders? They’re perfect on slider buns, sandwich rolls, or even over rice or mashed potatoes for a hearty meal.

More Easy Slow Cooker Recipes

• Crockpot Million Dollar Pasta

• Slow Cooker Garlic Chicken
• Easy Slow Cooker Recipes
• Slow Cooker Roasted Peanuts
• Slow Cooker Cranberry Meatballs

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