Pin It A classic American comfort food featuring savory ground beef in a sweet and tangy tomato sauce, served on soft hamburger buns. Perfect for a nostalgic, budget-friendly family dinner.
Growing up, Sloppy Joes were a regular dinner at our house, always requested for their saucy goodness and simplicity. Even now, I love serving them for laid-back weeknights when we need something satisfying but easy.
Ingredients
- Ground beef: 1 lb (450 g), 80/20 preferred
- Yellow onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
- Green bell pepper: 1 medium, finely chopped
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Tomato sauce: 1 cup (240 ml)
- Tomato paste: 2 tbsp
- Ketchup: 2 tbsp
- Worcestershire sauce: 1 tbsp
- Yellow mustard: 1 tbsp
- Brown sugar: 1 tbsp
- Chili powder: 1 tsp
- Smoked paprika: ½ tsp
- Salt: ½ tsp
- Ground black pepper: ¼ tsp
- Hamburger buns: 4, split and lightly toasted
- Butter: for toasting buns (optional)
Instructions
- Brown the beef:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook, breaking up with a spoon, until browned and no longer pink, about 5–7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Sauté vegetables:
- Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet. Sauté until vegetables are softened, about 4 minutes.
- Make the sauce:
- Stir in tomato sauce, tomato paste, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, brown sugar, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
- Simmer:
- Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally, until sauce thickens, about 8–10 minutes.
- Toast buns:
- While the mixture simmers, toast the hamburger buns on a skillet or in the oven, buttered if desired.
- Serve:
- Spoon the sloppy joe mixture generously onto the bottom half of each bun. Top with the other half and serve immediately.
Pin It My kids love helping with the assembly, and these messy sandwiches always bring big smiles to our family table. They’re just as good for next-day lunches, so everyone looks forward to leftovers!
Required Tools
Large skillet, wooden spoon or spatula, knife and cutting board, measuring cups and spoons.
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (buns) and soy (Worcestershire sauce). Always check ingredient labels for sensitivities.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 430 calories, 18 g total fat, 40 g carbohydrates, 25 g protein.
Pin It This classic recipe brings everyone to the table and is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy every saucy, messy bite!
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What type of meat is best for this dish?
Ground beef with an 80/20 fat ratio works best to keep the mixture juicy and flavorful.
- → Can vegetables be added or substituted?
Yes, finely chopped onions, bell peppers, and garlic enhance the depth of flavor, but you can adjust or add others as preferred.
- → How can I make the sauce thicker?
Simmer the sauce uncovered for several minutes, stirring occasionally until it reaches the desired thickness.
- → Are there alternatives to hamburger buns?
Yes, you can use sandwich rolls, brioche buns, or even serve the mixture over rice or potatoes for variation.
- → Can leftovers be stored safely?
Store any leftover filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze for up to two months.