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.
I first made Sloppy Joes for my kids on a busy weeknight, and they devoured every bite. Since then, it's become our go-to recipe for simple, satisfying family meals.
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: for toasting buns (optional)
Instructions
- Brown the beef:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook, breaking up with a spoon, until browned and no longer pink, about 5–7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Saute vegetables:
- Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet. Saute until vegetables are 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 well to combine.
- Simmer the filling:
- Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally, until sauce thickens, about 8–10 minutes.
- Toast the buns:
- While the mixture simmers, toast the hamburger buns on a skillet or in the oven, buttered if desired.
- Assemble and serve:
- Spoon the sloppy joe mixture generously onto the bottom half of each bun. Top with the other half and serve immediately.
Save My kids love helping toast the buns while I finish up the filling. We always laugh as we try to build the perfect messy sandwich together.
Required Tools
Large skillet, wooden spoon or spatula, knife and cutting board, measuring cups and spoons
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (buns) and soy (Worcestershire sauce). Check labels for allergies.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 430, Total Fat: 18 g, Carbohydrates: 40 g, Protein: 25 g per serving
Save Serve your Sloppy Joes hot and fresh for the best flavor. Enjoy every messy bite together!
Recipe FAQ
- → What type of meat works best for this dish?
Ground beef with an 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio provides the best balance of flavor and juiciness.
- → Can I substitute the meat with other options?
Yes, ground turkey or plant-based alternatives can be used for a lighter or vegetarian-friendly variation.
- → How can I enhance the flavor further?
Adding sliced pickles or shredded cheese on top brings extra texture and tanginess to the dish.
- → What is the best way to toast the buns?
Toast the buns lightly in a buttered skillet or oven to add crispness and a buttery aroma.
- → How long can leftovers be stored?
Store the filling in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze for up to two months for convenient future meals.