Chef John's Turkey Sloppy Joes

Recipe View In a large, heavy-bottomed skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, season with salt and pepper, and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and lightly golden, about 5 minutes.

Recipe View Add the ground turkey and cold water to the skillet. Break up the turkey with a spoon and cook, stirring frequently, until the turkey is lightly browned, about 5 minutes. Drain off any excess fat.

Recipe View Stir in the ketchup, brown sugar, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat and cook, stirring occasionally, until the liquid has reduced and thickened slightly, about 5 minutes.

Recipe View Stir in the Worcestershire sauce and cocoa powder. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the turkey is fully cooked and the sauce is thick and rich, about 20-30 minutes. If the mixture becomes too dry, add water, 1/4 cup at a time, until desired consistency is reached.

Recipe View Preheat your oven's broiler and position a rack about 6 inches from the heat source.

Recipe View Place the split hamburger buns on a baking sheet and toast under the broiler until lightly golden, 2-3 minutes. Watch carefully to prevent burning.

Recipe View Remove the turkey mixture from the heat and stir in the shredded Cheddar cheese and green onions until the cheese is melted and evenly distributed.

Recipe View Spoon the turkey mixture generously onto the toasted hamburger buns and serve immediately.