The Best Sloppy Joe Recipe – Easy & Flavorful Homemade Classic

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Sloppy Joes are a nostalgic comfort food that’s hearty, flavorful, and quick to prepare. Made with ground beef, a tangy tomato-based sauce, and a touch of sweetness, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or making a simple family meal, this sloppy joe recipe is sure to be a hit!

Why You Will Love Making This Recipe

  • Quick & Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes!
  • Family-Friendly: A meal everyone will love.
  • Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, inexpensive ingredients.
  • Customizable: Adjust sweetness, spice, or texture to your preference.
  • Great for Leftovers: Tastes even better the next day!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

  • Ground Beef (or Ground Turkey) – The base of the dish.
  • Onion & Garlic – Adds depth of flavor.
  • Tomato Sauce & Ketchup – Creates a rich, tangy sauce.
  • Worcestershire Sauce – Enhances the savory taste.
  • Brown Sugar (or Honey) – Balances the acidity of tomatoes.
  • Mustard & Vinegar – Adds a slight tang.
  • Salt, Pepper & Red Pepper Flakes (Optional) – For seasoning.
  • Buns or Bread Rolls – To serve.

Equipment Used

  • Large skillet
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups & spoons

Directions & Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess grease if needed.

Step 2: Sauté Onions & Garlic

Add chopped onions and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until softened and fragrant.

Step 3: Add Sauce Ingredients

Stir in tomato sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, mustard, and vinegar. Mix well.

Step 4: Simmer & Thicken

Reduce heat and let the mixture simmer for 10-15 minutes until thickened. Stir occasionally.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy

Spoon the sloppy joe mixture onto buns and serve warm.

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Nutritional Information

Each serving contains:

  • Calories: 320
  • Protein: 22g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fat: 12g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sugar: 8g
    A delicious, protein-packed meal that’s both satisfying and balanced.

Prep Time & Cook Time

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

  • Spicy Version: Add extra red pepper flakes or hot sauce.
  • Healthier Option: Use ground turkey and serve on whole wheat buns.
  • Vegetarian Alternative: Substitute with lentils or plant-based crumbles.
  • Cheesy Sloppy Joes: Add shredded cheddar cheese before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make sloppy joes ahead of time?

Yes! Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat in a skillet over low heat or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.

Can I freeze sloppy joe mixture?

Absolutely! Freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.

What’s the best type of bun to use?

Soft brioche buns or classic hamburger buns work best.

Pro Tips by Elisa

  • Toast the Buns for extra flavor and to prevent sogginess.
  • Simmer Longer for a richer, more developed flavor.
  • Double the Batch and freeze for easy future meals.
  • Add Vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra nutrients.

Serving Suggestions

  • With Coleslaw: A crunchy, refreshing side.
  • With French Fries or Tater Tots: A classic pairing.
  • With Pickles: Adds a tangy contrast.
  • With a Side Salad: For a lighter meal option.

This Best Sloppy Joe Recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! Try it today for a quick and delicious meal.

The Best Sloppy Joe

Elisa
This homemade sloppy joe recipe is rich, tangy, and incredibly easy to make. Perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course dinner
Cuisine American
Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups & spoons

Ingredients
  

  • Ground Beef or Ground Turkey – The base of the dish.
  • Onion & Garlic – Adds depth of flavor.
  • Tomato Sauce & Ketchup – Creates a rich tangy sauce.
  • Worcestershire Sauce – Enhances the savory taste.
  • Brown Sugar or Honey – Balances the acidity of tomatoes.
  • Mustard & Vinegar – Adds a slight tang.
  • Salt Pepper & Red Pepper Flakes (Optional) – For seasoning.
  • Buns or Bread Rolls – To serve.

Instructions
 

  • Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
  • In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess grease if needed.
  • Step 2: Sauté Onions & Garlic
  • Add chopped onions and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until softened and fragrant.
  • Step 3: Add Sauce Ingredients
  • Stir in tomato sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, mustard, and vinegar. Mix well.
  • Step 4: Simmer & Thicken
  • Reduce heat and let the mixture simmer for 10-15 minutes until thickened. Stir occasionally.
  • Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
  • Spoon the sloppy joe mixture onto buns and serve warm.

Notes

Toast the Buns for extra flavor and to prevent sogginess.
Simmer Longer for a richer, more developed flavor.
Double the Batch and freeze for easy future meals.
Add Vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra nutrients.
Keyword ground beef recipes