Description
Sloppy Joes are a classic American comfort food featuring ground beef simmered in a tangy, sweet-and-savory tomato-based sauce. This hearty and quick-to-make sandwich is served on soft hamburger buns, making it perfect for weeknight dinners, casual gatherings, or game day meals.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lb ground beef
- ½ medium onion, finely chopped
- ½ green bell pepper, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¾ cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon chili powder (optional)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 4 hamburger buns
Instructions
- Heat the oil and brown the beef: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 lb ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, for approximately 5–7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Sauté vegetables: Add the finely chopped ½ medium onion, ½ green bell pepper, and 2 cloves of minced garlic to the skillet. Cook and stir for 3–4 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
- Add sauce ingredients: Stir in ¾ cup ketchup, 1 tablespoon tomato paste, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, 1 tablespoon yellow mustard, 1 tablespoon brown sugar, ½ teaspoon chili powder if using, ¼ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper.
- Simmer the mixture: Reduce heat to low and allow the mixture to simmer for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened and flavors are melded.
- Prepare the buns and serve: Toast hamburger buns if desired. Spoon the sloppy joe mixture generously onto the bottom halves of the buns. Top with the remaining bun halves and serve warm.
Notes
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based meat alternatives for a different flavor or dietary preference.
- Add a slice of cheese for a cheeseburger-style twist.
- Serve with sides like coleslaw, pickles, or potato chips for a complete meal.
