Classic Sloppy Joe Recipe
Sloppy Joes are a beloved comfort food made with ground beef cooked in a savory, slightly sweet tomato sauce, served on a soft bun. This classic recipe is easy to make and perfect for a quick, family-friendly meal that everyone will enjoy. It’s simple, hearty, and bursting with flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 green bell pepper, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 hamburger buns
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat.
- Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, until the vegetables are softened.
- Stir in the ketchup, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix well and bring to a simmer.
- Reduce the heat to low and cook for an additional 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Serve the mixture on hamburger buns and enjoy immediately.
Tips
For extra flavor, toast the hamburger buns before serving. You can also add a pinch of chili powder for a bit of heat. Serve with pickles or coleslaw on the side for added crunch.
FAQs
- Can I make Sloppy Joes ahead of time? Yes, prepare the filling ahead of time and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
- What can I use instead of ground beef? Ground turkey or chicken are great alternatives for a lighter version of Sloppy Joes.
- How do I store leftovers? Store leftover Sloppy Joe mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Can I freeze Sloppy Joe filling? Yes, let the mixture cool completely and then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Conclusion
This classic Sloppy Joe recipe is easy, savory, and perfect for a family-friendly dinner. With its tangy sauce and hearty beef filling, it’s sure to be a hit with both kids and adults. Serve it with a side of coleslaw or fries for a comforting and satisfying meal that’s ready in no time!