Description
This homemade sloppy joes recipe delivers a flavorful, saucy ground beef mixture that's perfect for a quick family dinner. Made with a blend of fresh vegetables, spices, and a tangy tomato-based sauce, it's simmered on the stovetop to a thick, rich consistency. Serve on toasted buns for a classic American comfort food experience.
Ingredients
Meat and Fats
- 1 Tbsp butter
- 1 tsp olive oil
- 1 lb. ground beef
Vegetables
- 1/3 green bell pepper, minced
- 1/2 large yellow onion, minced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Sauces and Seasonings
- 1 Tbsp tomato paste
- 2/3 cup ketchup
- 1/3 cup water
- 1 Tbsp brown sugar (or less, if preferred)
- 1 tsp yellow mustard
- 3/4 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Dash of hot sauce (optional)
Instructions
- Brown the Beef: Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium to medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, for about 5 minutes until fully browned. Then, transfer the meat to a colander to drain excess fat.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the minced onion and green bell pepper and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Return the drained beef to the skillet and stir in the tomato paste until well combined.
- Add Sauce Ingredients: Pour in the ketchup, water, and add brown sugar, yellow mustard, chili powder, Worcestershire sauce, kosher salt, red pepper flakes (if using), and black pepper. Mix everything thoroughly to combine all the flavors.
- Simmer the Mixture: Cook the mixture over medium heat for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens to your preferred consistency. Remove from heat and serve hot over toasted buns.
Notes
- For a spicier version, increase the red pepper flakes and add more hot sauce to taste.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Serve with pickles or cheese slices on top for extra flavor.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 1 month.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
