Pin it
Once you try these homemade Sloppy Joes you'll never reach for the can again. The kitchen fills with the most amazing smell while that meat simmers in my special sauce. Fresh veggies and just the right blend of seasonings make these sandwiches totally irresistible. My family gobbles them up so fast I always make extra.
One Pan Wonder
The best part? Everything cooks in one pan so cleanup is a breeze. My sauce hits that sweet spot between tangy and savory and you can make it your own way. Sometimes I sneak in extra veggies sometimes I spice it up. The kids love picking their favorite toppings which makes dinner time fun for everyone.
Ingredients You'll Need
- Ground Beef: 1 pound of 80/20 for rich flavor.
- Fresh Veggies: 1 diced onion, 1 diced green pepper, and 3 minced garlic cloves for aromatic depth.
- Sauce Stars: 1/2 cup tomato sauce, 1/4 cup ketchup, 1 tablespoon mustard, and 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce for a sweet-savory balance.
- Seasonings: 1 teaspoon chili powder, 1/2 teaspoon paprika, and 1 tablespoon brown sugar for flavor complexity.
- Buns: Soft hamburger buns, lightly toasted.
- Optional: Pickles for a crunchy, tangy topping.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep Your Ingredients
- Chop the onion, green pepper, and garlic into small, uniform pieces. These will cook evenly and blend smoothly into the sauce.
- Brown the Beef
- Heat a large skillet over high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it into small pieces. Let it develop a crust for about 8-10 minutes. Drain excess fat and set aside.
- Sauté the Veggies
- In the same skillet, add the diced onion, green pepper, and garlic. Cook over medium heat until softened and slightly caramelized, about 5-7 minutes.
- Create the Sauce
- Return the beef to the skillet. Add tomato sauce, ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, paprika, and brown sugar. Stir to combine and simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken.
- Assemble the Sandwiches
- Lightly toast the hamburger buns. Spoon the beef mixture onto the bottom bun, add pickles if desired, and top with the other half of the bun. Serve immediately with plenty of napkins!
Pin it
Pin it
Make It Your Own
Want a lighter version? Turkey or chicken work great too. I love sneaking in shredded carrots or mushrooms my kids never notice. Like it spicy? Add a splash of hot sauce. Got a sweet tooth? Just bump up the brown sugar a bit. This recipe rolls with whatever changes you throw at it.
Save Some For Later
The filling actually tastes better the next day after all those flavors get cozy together. It keeps in the fridge for 4 days or pop it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just wait to put it on buns until you're ready to eat nobody likes a soggy sandwich.
Perfect Pairings
We love these with crispy fries or sweet potato wedges on the side. A crunchy coleslaw helps cut through the richness. Cold sodas or lemonade wash it all down perfectly. And grab extra napkins trust me you'll need them these sandwiches live up to their name.
Pin it
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make Sloppy Joes ahead of time?
Yes, the meat mixture can be made up to 3 days ahead and stored in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, just reheat and pile onto fresh toasted buns.
- → How do I freeze Sloppy Joes?
Cool the meat mixture completely, then store in freezer bags or containers. They'll keep well for up to 3 months in the freezer.
- → Why are my Sloppy Joes too runny?
If your mixture is too runny, continue simmering uncovered until it reaches your desired thickness. The sauce should be thick enough to stay on the bun.
- → What sides go well with Sloppy Joes?
Classic sides include potato chips, coleslaw, or french fries. A simple green salad or roasted vegetables also work well to balance the meal.
- → Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey works great as a substitute. You might want to add a bit more Worcestershire sauce and seasonings since turkey is leaner than beef.