Sloppy Joes – Classic Savory Sandwiches

Sloppy Joes are a beloved comfort food with sweet and tangy ground beef filling, perfect for a casual family meal or weeknight dinner. Easy to make and naturally satisfying, these sandwiches are messy in the best way!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Sweet and tangy filling that clings to buns
• Quick and easy for weeknight dinners
• Family-friendly and kid-approved
• Uses pantry staples most kitchens already have
• Freezes well for meal prep or leftovers

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 1/2 green bell pepper, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 4 hamburger buns, toasted
• Optional: pickles or shredded cheese for topping

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain excess fat.
2. Add diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté until vegetables are tender, about 4–5 minutes.
3. Stir in ketchup, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, mustard, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until sauce thickens.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Spoon the filling onto toasted hamburger buns.
7. Top with pickles or shredded cheese if desired. Serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

• Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version
• Add a splash of apple cider vinegar for tanginess
• Mix in finely chopped mushrooms for extra moisture and flavor
• Serve on slider buns for appetizer portions
• Make it spicier with a pinch of cayenne or hot sauce

Storage & Freezer Instructions

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days
• Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave before serving
• Freeze filling without buns for up to 2 months
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating
• Toast buns fresh when ready to serve for best texture

Serving & Pairing Ideas

• Serve with oven-baked fries or potato wedges
• Pair with coleslaw or a green salad
• Add pickled jalapeños for a zesty kick
• Serve in sliders for a party appetizer
• Offer a side of baked beans for a classic combo

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Sloppy Joes ahead of time?

Yes. Prepare the filling a day ahead and reheat before assembling sandwiches.

What type of buns work best?

Soft hamburger buns are ideal, but brioche or potato buns work great too.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes, replace ground beef with lentils or plant-based crumbles.

How can I thicken the sauce?

Simmer uncovered for 5–10 minutes to reduce liquid, or add 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water.

Ready to Make It?

These Sloppy Joes are messy, savory, and perfect for casual dinners or family gatherings. Sweet, tangy, and full of flavor, they’re a nostalgic classic that’s quick to prepare. Save this recipe for your next weeknight meal and enjoy every bite.

You Might Also Like

• Old-Fashioned Goulash – Hearty beef and pasta classic.
• Garlic Butter Steak and Potato Skillet – One-pan, flavor-packed dinner.
• Oven Baked Fries – Crispy fries baked in your oven.
• Chicken Fajita Casserole – Bold flavors in a comforting casserole.

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