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Easy Homemade Sloppy Joes

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These Easy Homemade Sloppy Joes are savory, saucy, and packed with flavor! Made with ground beef, a tangy-sweet tomato sauce, and toasted buns, this family-favorite meal comes together in just 30 minutes—perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick & easy – Ready in 30 minutes with simple ingredients.
  • Flavor-packed – A savory-sweet sauce with the perfect balance.
  • Family-friendly – A meal that both kids and adults love.
  • Better than canned – No preservatives, just fresh homemade goodness.
  • Budget-friendly – Uses pantry staples for an affordable meal.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Sloppy Joe Filling:

  • Ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner version)
  • Onion, finely chopped
  • Garlic, minced
  • Tomato sauce
  • Ketchup (adds a touch of sweetness)
  • Worcestershire sauce (for depth)
  • Brown sugar (balances acidity)
  • Yellow mustard (adds tang)
  • Apple cider vinegar (for a little zing)
  • Salt & black pepper
  • Paprika (optional, for a smoky touch)
  • Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

For Serving:

  • Burger buns or sandwich rolls
  • Butter (for toasting buns)
  • Cheese slices (optional, for extra flavor)

Directions

this recipe

Step 1: Brown the Beef

  1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Add ground beef and cook for 5-7 minutes, breaking it up as it browns.
  3. Drain excess fat if needed.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion & Garlic

  1. Add onion and cook for 2 minutes, until soft.
  2. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.

Step 3: Make the Sloppy Joe Sauce

  1. Stir in tomato sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, mustard, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper.
  2. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.

Step 4: Toast the Buns

  1. Spread butter on buns and toast in a skillet or oven for 2 minutes until golden.

Step 5: Assemble & Serve

  1. Spoon Sloppy Joe mixture onto toasted buns.
  2. Add cheese or extra toppings if desired.
  3. Serve warm and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 4
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

  • Spicy Sloppy Joes – Add hot sauce, jalapeños, or cayenne pepper.
  • Cheesy Version – Melt cheddar or provolone cheese on top.
  • Healthier Option – Use ground turkey or chicken.
  • Low-Carb – Serve over lettuce wraps or roasted veggies.
  • BBQ Sloppy Joes – Swap ketchup for BBQ sauce for a smoky twist.

Storage/Reheating

  • Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
  • Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat or microwave in 30-second intervals.
  • Freezing: Freeze Sloppy Joe mixture (without buns) for up to 3 months.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey or chicken works great for a lighter version.

What’s the best bun for Sloppy Joes?

Brioche, hamburger buns, or Kaiser rolls work best.

How do I thicken the sauce?

Let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes or stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water).

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Brown the beef first, then cook on LOW for 4-6 hours.

What sides go well with Sloppy Joes?

Try fries, coleslaw, mac and cheese, or a side salad.

How do I prevent soggy buns?

Toast the buns and serve immediately!

Can I add vegetables?

Yes! Add bell peppers, mushrooms, or shredded carrots for extra nutrition.

Can I use store-bought Sloppy Joe sauce?

Yes, but homemade sauce tastes fresher and better.

What cheese pairs well with Sloppy Joes?

Cheddar, provolone, or pepper jack are great options.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the meat mixture ahead and reheat when ready to serve.

Conclusion

These Easy Homemade Sloppy Joes are savory, saucy, and incredibly delicious. Whether served classic-style on a bun, over rice, or in a lettuce wrap, this recipe is a must-try for an easy, budget-friendly meal. Make them tonight and enjoy a homemade comfort food favorite!

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Easy Homemade Sloppy Joes

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  • Author: clara
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4-6 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
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Description

These Easy Homemade Sloppy Joes are savory, slightly sweet, and packed with bold flavors, featuring juicy ground beef simmered in a rich, tangy sauce. Made in one pan in under 30 minutes, they’re perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual meal. Serve on toasted buns with a side of fries, coleslaw, or a simple salad!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Sloppy Joe Filling:

  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (if using lean meat)
  • 1/2 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 small green bell pepper, finely chopped (optional, adds sweetness)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup tomato sauce
  • 1/4 cup ketchup (adds slight sweetness)
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste (for depth of flavor)
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (adds umami and richness)
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar (balances acidity, adjust to taste)
  • 1 tsp mustard (yellow or Dijon) (adds tanginess)
  • 1/2 tsp chili powder (optional, for mild heat)
  • 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper

For Serving:

  • 4–6 hamburger buns (toasted for extra flavor!)
  • Melted butter (for toasting buns, optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Beef & Veggies

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Add ground beef and cook for 5-7 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned.
  3. Drain excess fat if necessary.
  4. Stir in onions, bell pepper, and garlic. Cook for 3-4 minutes, until softened.

Step 2: Make the Sloppy Joe Sauce

  1. Add tomato sauce, ketchup, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, mustard, chili powder, salt, and pepper to the skillet.
  2. Stir well, then reduce heat to low and let simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
  3. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

Step 3: Toast the Buns (Optional but highly recommended!)

  1. Heat a separate pan or griddle over medium heat.
  2. Spread butter on the inside of each bun and toast until golden brown.

Step 4: Assemble & Serve

  1. Spoon the hot Sloppy Joe mixture onto each toasted bun.
  2. Serve immediately with fries, coleslaw, or a simple green salad!

Serving Suggestions

  • With Cheese: Top with cheddar, pepper jack, or provolone.
  • Spicy Version: Add hot sauce, jalapeños, or extra chili powder.
  • Make It Healthier: Serve over lettuce wraps or whole wheat buns.
  • Kid-Friendly: Serve with tater tots or mac and cheese.

Notes

  • Want it extra saucy? Add ¼ cup beef broth or more tomato sauce.
  • Make it ahead! Tastes even better the next day—store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Freezer-friendly: Cool completely and freeze for up to 3 months.

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