Homemade Sloppy Joes Recipe

Introduction

Homemade Sloppy Joes are a nostalgic American comfort food made with juicy ground beef simmered in a rich, sweet-and-tangy tomato sauce. This easy stovetop recipe comes together quickly and delivers that classic “messy but delicious” sandwich everyone loves. Perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or casual gatherings, these Sloppy Joes taste far better than anything from a can.

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, if beef is lean)
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 1 small green bell pepper, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ¾ cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1½ tablespoons brown sugar
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon chili powder (optional)
• ¼ cup water (or beef broth, as needed)
• 4 hamburger buns

Instructions

1. Brown the beef
   Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it up, until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
2. Cook the vegetables
   Add diced onion and green bell pepper to the skillet. Cook for 4–5 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
3. Make the sauce
   Add ketchup, tomato paste, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, paprika, salt, pepper, and chili powder. Stir well to combine.
4. Simmer
   Pour in water or broth. Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thick and saucy.
5. Serve
   Spoon the Sloppy Joe mixture onto toasted hamburger buns and serve hot.

Tips for the Best Sloppy Joes

• Finely dice the vegetables so they blend smoothly into the sauce
• Simmer longer for a thicker, richer flavor
• Toast the buns slightly to prevent sogginess
• Adjust sweetness by adding more or less brown sugar

Storage

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days
• Freezer: Freeze the meat mixture for up to 2 months
• Reheat: Warm on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of water if needed

FAQs

1. What makes Sloppy Joes “sloppy”?
The loose, saucy ground beef mixture that spills easily from the bun.

2. Can I make Sloppy Joes without sugar?
Yes, but the classic flavor relies on a sweet-savory balance. You can reduce or omit sugar if preferred.

3. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely. Ground turkey works well—just add a little extra oil for moisture