Sloppy Joe Recipe
Introduction
Sloppy Joes are a classic comfort food that’s quick and easy to make. This hearty sandwich features seasoned ground beef in a tangy sauce, perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb 80/20 ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped fine
- 1 medium green pepper, chopped fine
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 2 tsp yellow mustard
- 1 tbsp canola oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Heat 1 tablespoon of canola oil in a large frying pan over medium-low heat. Add the chopped onions and green peppers, sautéing for about 5 minutes until they begin to soften.
- Step 2: Push the onions and peppers to the outer edge of the pan and increase the heat to medium-high.
- Step 3: Spread the ground beef evenly in the center of the pan and cook undisturbed for about 5 minutes, until the bottom starts to brown.
- Step 4: Season the beef with salt and black pepper, then flip it over. Continue cooking, breaking the meat into small pieces with a spoon or spatula, until fully cooked and no longer pink, about 2–3 minutes.
- Step 5: Reduce the heat to medium-low and stir in the ketchup, yellow mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and sugar. Cook for 2–3 minutes until the flavors meld together.
- Step 6: Serve the sloppy Joe mixture on burger buns, brioche buns, or potato rolls while hot.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, try adding a dash of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for a slight kick.
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Top with sliced pickles or shredded cheese to add texture and taste.
Storage
Store any leftover sloppy Joe mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to heat evenly.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make sloppy Joes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meat mixture a day in advance and refrigerate it. Reheat on the stove before serving for best results.
What buns work best for sloppy Joes?
Burger buns, brioche buns, or potato rolls are all excellent choices as they hold up well to the saucy filling and add a soft, slightly sweet complement.
PrintSloppy Joe Recipe
This classic Sloppy Joe recipe features a savory ground beef mixture simmered with onions, green peppers, and a tangy blend of ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and a touch of sugar. Ready in just 20 minutes, this hearty and flavorful sandwich filling is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal served on your choice of buns.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb 80/20 ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped fine
- 1 medium green pepper, chopped fine
Seasonings and Sauces
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 2 tsp yellow mustard
- salt and black pepper, to taste
Cooking Oil
- 1 tbsp canola oil
Instructions
- Sauté the Vegetables: Heat 1 tablespoon of canola oil in a large frying pan over medium-low heat. Add the finely chopped onion and green pepper, cooking for about 5 minutes until they begin to soften.
- Prepare for Browning Beef: Push the softened onions and peppers to the outer edge of the pan and increase the heat to medium-high. This creates space in the center for browning the meat.
- Brown the Ground Beef: Spread the ground beef evenly in the center of the pan and let it cook undisturbed for 5 minutes to develop a good brown crust.
- Cook and Break Up Meat: Season the beef with salt and black pepper, then flip it over. Continue cooking while breaking the meat into small pieces with a wooden spoon or spatula until fully cooked and no longer pink, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add Flavorings and Simmer: Reduce the heat to medium-low. Stir in the ketchup, yellow mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and sugar. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors meld and the sauce thickens slightly.
- Serve: Spoon the sloppy joe mixture onto burger buns, brioche buns, or potato rolls and enjoy immediately.
Notes
- For a healthier option, use lean ground beef with less fat or substitute ground turkey.
- Adjust the sweetness by modifying the sugar amount or substitute with honey or maple syrup.
- Add a dash of hot sauce or chili powder for a spicier kick.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 1 month.
- Consider topping sandwiches with sliced pickles or cheese for extra flavor.
Keywords: Sloppy Joe, ground beef sandwich, quick dinner, American comfort food, sloppy joe recipe
