The Best Sloppy Joe Recipe

This Sloppy Joe recipe is a true classic! It’s a simple and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a casual get-together, or a nostalgic trip down memory lane. With a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Classic comfort food: This recipe delivers all the nostalgic flavors of a classic Sloppy Joe.
• Quick and easy: It’s ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful: The combination of ground beef, vegetables, and a tangy-sweet sauce creates a delicious and satisfying filling.
• Crowd-pleaser: This recipe is a hit with both kids and adults.

this Recipe

Ingredients for The Best Sloppy Joe Recipe

This recipe uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients to create a flavorful and satisfying dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a healthier option.
• Onion and Green Bell Pepper: Add flavor and texture to the Sloppy Joe filling.
• Olive Oil: For sautéing the vegetables and browning the ground beef.
• Worcestershire Sauce, Yellow Mustard, Brown Sugar: Create a tangy-sweet base for the sauce.
• Tomato Sauce: Adds richness and depth to the sauce.
• Salt and Pepper: Enhances the overall taste.
• Garlic: Adds a pungent flavor to the filling.
• Water (optional): Used to adjust the consistency of the sauce.
• Hamburger Buns: Toasted or untoasted, depending on your preference.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

How to Make The Best Sloppy Joe

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Finely chop the onion and green bell pepper. In a bowl, combine the Worcestershire sauce, yellow mustard, brown sugar, and tomato sauce.

Step 2: Cook the Beef and Vegetables

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula. Season with salt and pepper, then add the diced peppers and onion. Cook until the vegetables are softened and the beef is browned.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until fragrant. Pour in the prepared sauce and bring to a light boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 10-15 minutes, or until thickened to your liking. Season to taste with salt and pepper. If you prefer a looser consistency, add a little water.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve the Sloppy Joe mixture on toasted hamburger buns.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Ground beef variations: You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef.
• Spice level: Adjust the amount of black pepper or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat.
• Make it ahead: You can make the Sloppy Joe filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.

How to Serve The Best Sloppy Joe

• Classic Sloppy Joe sandwiches: Serve the filling on toasted hamburger buns.
• Sloppy Joe bowls: Serve the filling over a bed of rice or mashed potatoes for a heartier meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Sloppy Joe filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating

Reheat the filling gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef.

Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can! Simply brown the ground beef and sauté the vegetables on the stovetop, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Add the remaining ingredients and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the flavors have melded.

My Sloppy Joe filling is too thick, what should I do?
If your filling is too thick, you can thin it out with a bit of water or broth.

Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Yes, you can add other vegetables, such as diced celery, carrots, or mushrooms.

There you have it! A simple and delicious recipe for The Best Sloppy Joe. I hope you enjoy it!

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