Sloppy Joe Stuffed Rolls (Air Fryer Recipe)

Introduction:

These Sloppy Joe Stuffed Rolls bring together the nostalgic flavors of classic sloppy joes and the convenience of handheld stuffed buns. Cooked to golden perfection in the air fryer, each roll is crispy outside, savory and cheesy inside—making them irresistible for kids and adults alike. Great for parties, game nights, or quick dinners!

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Sloppy Joe Filling: 10 minutes

Air Fryer Time: 8–10 minutes

Total Time: ~30–35 minutes

Ingredients: (Makes 8 stuffed rolls)

For the Sloppy Joe Filling:

1 tbsp oil or butter

½ medium onion, finely diced

1 small green bell pepper, finely diced

2 garlic cloves, minced

½ lb (225g) ground beef

½ cup ketchup

1 tbsp tomato paste

1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

1 tsp yellow mustard

½ tsp paprika

Salt & black pepper, to taste

1–2 tbsp water (if needed to loosen sauce)

For Assembly:

8 dinner rolls or slider buns (hollowed from center)

½–¾ cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese

Melted butter (optional) for brushing

Garlic powder + parsley (optional) for topping

Instructions:

Make the Sloppy Joe Filling (10 min)

Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat.

Add diced onions and bell peppers, sauté for 3–4 minutes until soft.

Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds.

Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.

Drain excess fat if needed.

Stir in ketchup, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Simmer for 3–5 minutes until thickened. Add a splash of water if too dry.

Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Prepare and Fill Rolls (5 min)

Hollow out the center of each roll (creating a “bowl”).

Spoon Sloppy Joe mixture into each roll generously.

Top with shredded cheese.

Air Fryer Cooking (8–10 min)

Preheat air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for 3 minutes.

Lightly spray or brush the air fryer basket with oil.

Arrange the stuffed rolls in the basket (work in batches if needed).

Optional: Brush tops with melted butter and sprinkle garlic powder + parsley.

Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes, or until:

Rolls are golden

Cheese is melted and bubbly

 You can use foil underneath or a small baking tray insert if your air fryer supports it.

Serve With:

Dill pickles or coleslaw

Chips or air-fried potato wedges

Side salad with tangy vinaigrette

Storage & Reheat:

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Reheat: Air fry at 320°F (160°C) for 3–5 minutes or until warmed through.

Freezer (uncooked): Assemble rolls and freeze individually. Air fry directly from frozen, adding 2–3 extra minutes.

Tips & Variations:

Use Hawaiian rolls for a sweet-savory flavor.

Add jalapeños or chili flakes for a spicy kick.

Substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat.