Description
These homemade Sloppy Joes feature lean ground beef simmered in a rich, tangy tomato sauce with onions, peppers, and classic seasonings. Served on toasted hamburger buns, they’re a family-friendly meal that’s ready in just 30 minutes and perfect for an easy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- ½ green bell pepper, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Sauces and Seasonings
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp yellow mustard
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Bread
- 4 hamburger buns
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil: Warm the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat to prepare for sautéing the vegetables.
- Sauté onions and bell peppers: Cook the finely diced onion and green bell pepper for 4 to 5 minutes until they become softened and fragrant.
- Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds to release its aroma without burning.
- Brown the ground beef: Add the lean ground beef to the skillet and cook until it is thoroughly browned. Drain any excess fat if necessary to keep the mixture lean.
- Add sauces and seasonings: Stir in the tomato sauce, ketchup, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, yellow mustard, smoked paprika, and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Simmer the mixture: Let the mixture simmer gently on low to medium heat for 10 to 15 minutes until the sauce thickens and flavors meld together.
- Toast the buns and serve: Spoon the hot sloppy joe mixture onto toasted hamburger buns and serve immediately for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Notes
- Ground turkey can be substituted for beef for a leaner option.
- Add shredded cheddar cheese on top for extra richness and flavor.
- Leftover filling freezes well; store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
