Introduction

This classic Sloppy Joe is a thick, sweet-savory ground beef mixture simmered with tomatoes, onions, and peppers. Pile it high on toasted buns for a nostalgic weeknight dinner that’s ready in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

• 1 Tbsp olive oil or butter
• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (or turkey)
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 1/2 green bell pepper, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup (240 ml) tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
• 2 Tbsp tomato paste
• 2–3 Tbsp brown sugar (to taste)
• 1 Tbsp yellow mustard
• 1 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce (or soy sauce)
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
• Salt & black pepper, to taste
• 1/4–1/2 cup water or beef broth, as needed
• 4–6 burger buns, toasted
• Optional for serving: dill pickles, shredded cheese, coleslaw

Instructions

1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and bell pepper; cook 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic for 30 seconds.
2. Add ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until browned; drain excess fat if needed.
3. Stir in tomato sauce, tomato paste, brown sugar, mustard, Worcestershire, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add 1/4 cup water/broth.
4. Simmer gently 8–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thick and glossy. Add more water if too thick; reduce longer for extra thickness.
5. Taste and adjust sweetness/salt. Spoon onto toasted buns and serve hot.

Methods & Pro Tips

• Browning = flavor: Let the meat sear before stirring for deeper taste.
• Balance: Brown sugar adds sweetness; mustard & Worcestershire add tang and umami. Adjust to your preference.
• Make-ahead: The mixture tastes even better the next day. Reheat with a splash of water.

History

Sloppy Joes became popular in mid-20th-century American lunch counters—thought to have roots in loose meat sandwiches from the Midwest. The signature saucy beef made them a school-cafeteria classic and a family staple.

Benefits

• Fast, budget-friendly, and kid-approved.
• Protein-rich; easy to bulk up with veggies (carrots, mushrooms, celery).
• Great for meal prep and freezer-friendly.

Formation & Serving Ideas

• Serve on toasted brioche or hamburger buns.
• Top with cheddar, pickles, or a spoon of coleslaw.
• Use as a filling for baked potatoes, nachos, quesadillas, or sliders.

Lovers

Perfect for busy families, game-day crowds, and anyone who loves retro comfort food with bold flavor.

Variations

• Spicy: Add chili flakes or hot sauce.
• BBQ: Swap half the tomato sauce for your favorite BBQ sauce.
• Veggie: Replace beef with lentils or plant-based mince.

Storage

• Fridge: 3–4 days in an airtight container.
• Freezer: Up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and reheat gently with a splash of water.

Conclusion

This Sloppy Joe filling is quick, saucy, and deeply satisfying. Toast some buns, pile it high, and enjoy a timeless classic. 🥪✨