Sloppy Joes have been a family favorite for years, and for good reason! This classic homemade Sloppy Joes recipe features lean ground beef cooked in a rich, tangy tomato-based sauce with onions, bell peppers, and aromatic garlic, served on toasted hamburger buns for a hearty meal. Whether it’s lunch or dinner, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table.
Why You’ll Love This Sloppy Joes
This Sloppy Joes recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. Here are a few reasons why you’ll love it:
- Quick to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Uses simple ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry.
- Customizable to suit your taste—add extra spices or veggies!
- Great for feeding a crowd, making it ideal for gatherings.
- Leftovers can be easily reheated for quick lunches.
- This classic dish brings comfort food vibes to your table.
With just a few key ingredients, including the tangy Sloppy Joe mix, you’ll have a satisfying meal ready in no time. The recipe falls under the American cuisine category, making it a staple in many households.
Ingredients for Sloppy Joes
Gather these items:
- 15 oz can tomato sauce
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 1/2 tsp yellow mustard (or to taste)
- 2-3 tsp brown sugar (or to taste)
- 1 Tbsp extra light olive oil (or any high-heat cooking oil)
- 1 lb lean ground beef (85%-90% lean)
- 1/2 tsp fine sea salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper (or to taste)
- 1 small onion (finely chopped)
- 1/2 small green bell pepper (seeded and finely diced, or use 1/2 cup grated carrot)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 5 hamburger buns (toasted if desired)
How to Make Sloppy Joes Step-by-Step
- Step 1: In a medium bowl, combine the tomato sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, yellow mustard, and brown sugar. Stir well and set aside to develop flavors.
- Step 2: Heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and then the ground beef. Cook the beef for about 5 minutes, breaking it up with a spatula until no longer pink. If excess fat accumulates, drain it off.
- Step 3: Season the beef with fine sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. Stir in the finely chopped onion and diced green bell pepper. Cook for 5 more minutes until the vegetables soften.
- Step 4: Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour the prepared sauce mixture into the skillet.
- Step 5: Bring the mixture to a light boil, then reduce heat to low. Let it simmer uncovered for 10 to 15 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Step 6: Spoon the hot Sloppy Joe mixture onto toasted hamburger buns and serve immediately.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Sloppy Joes
Keep these in mind:
- For added flavor, try using ground turkey or even a vegetarian option for a twist on the classic Sloppy Joe recipe.
- Make sure to toast your hamburger buns for extra texture and flavor.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a little water or broth to achieve your desired consistency.
Best Ways to Serve Sloppy Joes
Here are some great serving suggestions:
- Serve with coleslaw for a crunchy contrast.
- Pair with sweet potato fries for a delicious side.
- Top with pickles or jalapeños for an added kick!
How to Store and Reheat Sloppy Joes
To store leftovers, simply place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For meal prep, you can make a large batch and freeze it for later. When ready to eat, just reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sloppy Joes
What is a Sloppy Joe?
A Sloppy Joe is a type of sandwich made from ground beef mixed with a savory tomato-based sauce, served on a hamburger bun. It’s a messy but delicious meal!
Can I make Sloppy Joes ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the Sloppy Joe mixture ahead of time. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for longer storage. Just reheat before serving!
How do I avoid common mistakes with Sloppy Joes?
To avoid common mistakes, ensure the beef is well-drained to prevent a watery sauce. Always taste and adjust seasoning as needed for the best flavor.
Variations of Sloppy Joes You Can Try
There are many fun twists on the classic Sloppy Joe recipe:
- Spicy Sloppy Joes: Add chili powder or hot sauce to kick it up a notch.
- Vegetarian Sloppy Joes: Substitute ground beef with lentils or mushrooms for a meatless option.
- Messy Joe burgers: Use the same mixture to top grilled burgers for a unique take.
With these variations and tips, you can make the best Sloppy Joes that suit any palate! Enjoy this classic American dish that never fails to deliver comfort and satisfaction.
For more delicious recipes, check out our Gingerbread Tiramisu or Cranberry Custard Pie. If you’re looking for a hearty meal, you might also enjoy Sizzling Cheesy Beef Rice.
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Classic Sloppy Joes: 5 Easy Steps to Mouthwatering Goodness
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 5 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
This classic homemade Sloppy Joes recipe features lean ground beef cooked in a rich, tangy tomato-based sauce with onions, bell peppers, and aromatic garlic, served on toasted hamburger buns for a hearty, satisfying meal perfect for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
- 15 oz can tomato sauce
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 1/2 tsp yellow mustard (or to taste)
- 2–3 tsp brown sugar (or to taste)
- 1 Tbsp extra light olive oil (or any high-heat cooking oil)
- 1 lb lean ground beef (85%-90% lean)
- 1/2 tsp fine sea salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper (or to taste)
- 1 small onion (finely chopped)
- 1/2 small green bell pepper (seeded and finely diced, or use 1/2 cup grated carrot)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 5 hamburger buns (toasted if desired)
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine the tomato sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, yellow mustard, and brown sugar. Stir well and set aside to develop flavors.
- Heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and then the ground beef. Cook the beef for about 5 minutes, breaking it up with a spatula, until no longer pink and fully cooked. If excess fat accumulates, drain it off by tilting the pan and spooning it out or blotting with paper towels. Season the beef with fine sea salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Stir in the finely chopped onion and diced green bell pepper (or grated carrot). Cook for about 5 more minutes until the vegetables soften and the beef is browned. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
- Pour the prepared tomato sauce mixture into the skillet. Bring the mixture to a light boil, then reduce heat to low. Let it simmer uncovered for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency. Adjust seasoning by adding more salt, pepper, or brown sugar to taste. If the mixture is too thick, add a little water to loosen it.
- Spoon the hot Sloppy Joe mixture onto toasted hamburger buns and serve immediately for a classic, hearty sandwich experience.
Notes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 359 kcal
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 33 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 24 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg