Save A classic American comfort food featuring savory ground beef in a sweet and tangy tomato sauce, served on soft hamburger buns. Perfect for a nostalgic, budget-friendly family dinner.
The first time I made Sloppy Joes for my kids, I was amazed how much they loved the sweet and tangy flavor. Now it's a regular request on busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- Ground beef: 1 lb (450 g), 80/20 preferred
- Yellow onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
- Green bell pepper: 1 medium, finely chopped
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Tomato sauce: 1 cup (240 ml)
- Tomato paste: 2 tbsp
- Ketchup: 2 tbsp
- Worcestershire sauce: 1 tbsp
- Yellow mustard: 1 tbsp
- Brown sugar: 1 tbsp
- Chili powder: 1 tsp
- Smoked paprika: ½ tsp
- Salt: ½ tsp
- Ground black pepper: ¼ tsp
- Hamburger buns: 4, split and lightly toasted
- Butter: optional, for toasting buns
Instructions
- Brown the beef:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add ground beef. Cook and break up with a spoon until browned and no longer pink, about 5–7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Sauté vegetables:
- Add onion, bell pepper, and garlic to skillet. Sauté until softened, about 4 minutes.
- Make the sauce:
- Stir in tomato sauce, tomato paste, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, brown sugar, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix to combine.
- Simmer:
- Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally, until sauce thickens, about 8–10 minutes.
- Toast buns:
- While mixture simmers, toast hamburger buns on a skillet or in oven, buttered if desired.
- Assemble and serve:
- Spoon mixture onto bottom half of each bun, top with the other half, and serve.
Save Serving these Sloppy Joes always reminds me of summer picnics at my parents' house, with everyone reaching for seconds.
Required Tools
Large skillet, wooden spoon or spatula, knife and cutting board, measuring cups and spoons
Allergen Information
Contains wheat in the buns and soy in Worcestershire sauce. Always check all labels if serving to individuals with allergies.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 430 calories, 18 g fat, 40 g carbohydrates, 25 g protein
Save Enjoy these Sloppy Joes hot and fresh for maximum flavor. Leftovers are great for lunch the next day.
Recipe Guide
- → What cut of beef is best for this dish?
Ground beef with an 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio is ideal as it provides both flavor and moisture.
- → Can I use other meats instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey or plant-based meat alternatives work well as substitutes to suit different preferences.
- → How do I enhance the flavor of the sauce?
Adding smoked paprika and brown sugar creates a smoky sweetness that balances the tanginess of tomato components.
- → What is the best way to toast the buns?
Lightly butter the buns and toast them on a skillet or in the oven until golden for added texture and flavor.
- → How long can leftovers be stored?
Store the filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.