What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade Sloppy Joe recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor. It’s the perfect meal for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers.
- Simple ingredients—everything you need is likely already in your pantry.
- Customizable—add your favorite veggies or spices to make it your own.
- Family-friendly—kids and adults alike will love its hearty, comforting taste.
Recipe
Sloppy Joes are a classic American comfort food, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. This homemade version is flavorful, easy to make, and sure to be a hit with the whole family.
Ingredients:
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound ground beef
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup tomato sauce
2 tablespoons tomato paste
3 tablespoons ketchup
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon mustard powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and black pepper, to taste
6 hamburger buns
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the onion, green bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened.
- Stir in the tomato sauce, tomato paste, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, mustard powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine.
- Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens.
- Toast the hamburger buns lightly if desired. Spoon the sloppy Joe mixture onto the buns and serve immediately.
Notes:
For a leaner option, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. You can also add a splash of hot sauce for extra heat.
Equipment:
Large skillet, spoon, measuring spoons, knife, cutting board
Time:
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Cuisine:
American
Serving:
6 sandwiches
Nutrition
This homemade sloppy joe recipe is not only flavorful but also provides a balanced mix of nutrients. Here’s a breakdown of its nutritional content per serving:
| Calories | Protein | Carbohydrates | Fat | Fiber | Sugar | Sodium |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 320 | 18g | 32g | 12g | 3g | 10g | 680mg |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my sloppy joes with classic sides like crispy fries or a simple coleslaw, but you can also get creative with options like roasted veggies or mac and cheese. Don’t forget to think about drinks—something invigorating like iced tea or lemonade balances the savory flavors perfectly. Trust me, finding the right combo makes the meal even more enjoyable!
Side Dish Ideas
Nothing beats a messy, flavorful sloppy joe, but it’s even better when paired with the right sides. I love serving mine with crispy french fries or onion rings for that perfect crunch. If I’m feeling healthier, a fresh green salad or coleslaw balances the richness. Sometimes, I’ll go for classic corn on the cob or roasted veggies for a bit of sweetness. Garlic bread or buttered rolls are a must for soaking up all that saucy goodness. My personal favorite? A handful of pickle spears for a tangy kick. Experiment with these ideas to find your perfect combo!
Drink Pairings
A great sloppy joe deserves an equally tasty drink to wash it down. I usually go for something invigorating, like a cold glass of lemonade or iced tea. The tangy sweetness balances the rich, savory flavors of the sandwich. If I’m feeling fancy, I’ll whip up a fizzy soda float with vanilla ice cream—it’s a fun, nostalgic treat. For adults, a cold beer or a simple red wine pairs nicely. When I’m hosting, I’ll set out a pitcher of homemade iced tea with lemon slices for everyone to enjoy. Whatever you choose, make sure it complements the bold, hearty taste of your sloppy joe.
