Sloppy Joe Recipe

Sloppy Joes are a quintessential comfort food, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. This beginner-friendly recipe provides a step-by-step guide to making delicious, savory Sloppy Joes from scratch.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 small green bell pepper, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp yellow mustard
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
• 4 hamburger buns
• Butter for toasting buns (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Ground Beef:
   • In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef.
   • Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
   • Drain off any excess fat.
2. Add Vegetables:
   • Add the finely chopped onion and green bell pepper to the skillet with the beef.
   • Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
   • Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Make the Sauce:
   • Stir in the tomato sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, yellow mustard, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
   • Mix well to combine all ingredients.
4. Simmer:
   • Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency.
5. Toast the Buns (optional):
   • While the meat mixture is simmering, you can toast the hamburger buns for added texture and flavor.
   • Spread a thin layer of butter on the cut sides of the buns.
   • Place them butter-side down on a hot skillet or griddle and toast until golden brown.
6. Assemble the Sloppy Joes:
   • Spoon the meat mixture generously onto the bottom halves of the toasted buns.
   • Place the top halves of the buns over the filling.
7. Serve:
   • Serve the Sloppy Joes hot with your favorite sides, such as coleslaw, potato chips, or pickles.

Tips for Success:

• Lean Meat: Using lean ground beef reduces the amount of fat that needs to be drained off, resulting in a healthier dish.
• Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, celery, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Make Ahead: The meat mixture can be made ahead of time and reheated when ready to serve. It often tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.

Enjoy this classic Sloppy Joe recipe for a hearty, flavorful meal that’s sure to be a hit with the whole family!