Sloppy Joes
A quintessential American comfort food! This recipe features savory ground beef simmered in a rich, tangy, and slightly sweet tomato-based sauce, served hot on a toasted bun. A one-pan wonder, it's the perfect quick and satisfying meal for any busy weeknight.
For 4 servings
3 steps. 25 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Brown the Meat and Vegetables
- b.Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- c.Add the ground beef, diced onion, and diced green bell pepper to the skillet.
- d.Cook for 8-10 minutes, using a spoon to break up the meat, until the beef is fully browned and the vegetables have softened.
- e.Carefully tilt the skillet and spoon out any excess grease. Discard the grease.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Create the Sauce and Simmer
- b.Return the skillet to medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant, stirring constantly.
- c.Stir in the ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, yellow mustard, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until everything is well combined.
- d.Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet partially with a lid and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes.
- e.Stir occasionally until the sauce has thickened and the flavors have melded together. The mixture should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Assemble and Serve
- b.While the sauce is simmering, lightly toast the hamburger buns. You can do this in a toaster, under a broiler, or on a dry skillet until golden brown.
- c.Once the meat mixture is ready, spoon a generous amount onto the bottom half of each toasted bun.
- d.Place the top half of the bun on top and serve immediately.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Toasting the buns is a key step! It creates a barrier that prevents them from becoming soggy from the sauce.
- 2For a deeper, more complex flavor, allow the sauce to simmer for the full 20 minutes or even a little longer.
- 3Don't overcrowd the pan when browning the beef. If needed, do it in two batches to ensure it browns properly rather than steams.
- 4This recipe is perfect for meal prep. The meat mixture can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- 5For a less sweet sauce, you can reduce the brown sugar to 1 tablespoon or omit it entirely.
Adapt it for your goals.
Meat Swap
Substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, ground chicken, or even a plant-based crumble for a different version.
Veggie BoostVeggie Boost
Add finely diced carrots, celery, or mushrooms along with the onion and bell pepper for extra nutrients and flavor.
Spicy KickSpicy Kick
For a spicier Sloppy Joe, add a pinch of red pepper flakes, a dash of your favorite hot sauce, or some diced jalapeños with the bell pepper.
Smoky FlavorSmoky Flavor
Incorporate 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika or 1 tablespoon of your favorite BBQ sauce for a smoky twist.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Protein
Ground beef is packed with high-quality protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting muscle mass, and maintaining overall body function.
Rich in Iron
This dish provides a significant amount of heme iron from the beef, a form that is easily absorbed by the body. Iron is crucial for creating red blood cells and preventing anemia.
Provides B Vitamins
Beef is a natural source of several B vitamins, including B12, niacin, and B6. These vitamins are vital for energy production, brain health, and the formation of DNA.
Frequently asked questions
A typical Sloppy Joe made with this recipe contains approximately 450-550 calories, depending on the leanness of the beef and the type of bun used.