Sloppy Joes Recipe

Name: Sloppy Joes Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 onion (chopped); 1 green bell pepper (chopped); 1 cup ketchup; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 tablespoon brown sugar; Salt to taste; Pepper to taste; 4 hamburger buns; Pickles and onions for topping

Sara Lee2 weeks agoLast Updated: July 10, 2025

3 minutes read

If you’re looking for a quick, hearty meal that the whole family will love, this sloppy joes recipe is just what you need! With a rich, savory filling piled high on soft buns, it’s comfort food at its best. Perfect for casual gatherings or a simple weeknight dinner, this dish is easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Let’s dive into the details!

Ingredients

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe makes 4 servings. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, and cooking time is around 20 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (1 sandwich) contains approximately 350 calories, 22g of protein, 30g of carbohydrates, and 18g of fat. This is based on one sandwich with standard ingredients.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Start by browning 1 pound of ground beef in a skillet over medium heat.
Add 1 chopped onion and 1 chopped green bell pepper to the skillet.
Cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
Drain excess fat from the skillet.
Stir in 1 cup of ketchup and 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce.
Add 1 tablespoon of brown sugar, salt, and pepper to taste.
Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
While the mixture simmers, lightly toast 4 hamburger buns.
Spoon the sloppy joe mixture onto the toasted buns.
Top with your favorite condiments like pickles or onions and serve hot!

Alternative Ingredients

You can easily substitute ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based meat for a lighter or vegetarian option. Additionally, feel free to use different types of buns, such as whole wheat or gluten-free.

Serving and Pairings

Sloppy joes pair wonderfully with a side of coleslaw, potato chips, or a fresh garden salad. For drinks, consider serving with lemonade or iced tea for a refreshing meal.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftover sloppy joe mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave until warmed through. This dish can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Cooking Mistakes

Don’t skip draining the excess fat for a less greasy meal.
Be careful not to overcook the vegetables; they should be tender but not mushy.
Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less brown sugar to taste.
Use a good quality ketchup for the best flavor.
Avoid drying out the meat; keep it moist with the sauce.
Don’t rush the simmering process; it enhances the flavors.

Helpful Tips

For a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños to the mixture.
Experiment with different sauces like BBQ for a unique twist.
Try adding cheese on top for a gooey finish.
Serve with a side of pickles for added crunch.

FAQs

Can I make sloppy joes ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meat mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat before serving.

What can I use instead of hamburger buns?

You can use any bread you like, including hot dog buns, English muffins, or even lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.

How do I make sloppy joes spicier?

Add diced jalapeños, hot sauce, or red pepper flakes to the meat mixture to elevate the heat level.

Can I freeze sloppy joes?

Absolutely! The meat mixture freezes well. Just be sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.

What sides go well with sloppy joes?

Sloppy joes are great with coleslaw, potato wedges, or a simple green salad for a balanced meal.

Conclusion

This sloppy joes recipe is not just easy to make but also delivers comforting flavors that everyone will enjoy. Perfect for busy nights or casual gatherings, it’s a dish that brings smiles and satisfaction. Enjoy your delicious creation!