Classic Sloppy Joes: A Savory, Sweet Sandwich Perfect for Any Occasion

Sloppy Joes are a timeless comfort food – easy to make, bursting with flavor, and perfect for feeding a crowd. Made with ground beef, vegetables, and a tangy, sweet sauce, this dish is served on a toasted bun for the ultimate messy, delicious experience. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or making a weeknight dinner, these Sloppy Joes are sure to be a hit!

Ingredients

For the Sloppy Joe Filling:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup (240ml) tomato sauce
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) ketchup
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon (15g) brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon (5g) chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 sesame seed hamburger buns, toasted

Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

1. Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the ground beef and cook for 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon until browned. Drain off any excess fat.

Step 2: Add the Vegetables

1. Add the diced onion, green bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the vegetables soften.

Step 3: Prepare the Sloppy Joe Sauce

1. Stir in the tomato sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Let the mixture simmer over low heat for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and the flavors have melded together. Adjust the seasoning to your taste.

Step 4: Assemble the Sloppy Joes

1. Lightly toast the sesame seed buns until golden brown.
2. Spoon the Sloppy Joe filling generously onto the bottom half of each bun. Top with the other half of the bun.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Serve the Sloppy Joes immediately with your favorite side dish, such as crispy fries, coleslaw, or a simple green salad. Enjoy!

Tips for the Perfect Sloppy Joes

1. Adjust the Sweetness and Tang: If you prefer a sweeter Sloppy Joe, you can add extra brown sugar or ketchup. For more tang, increase the amount of vinegar.
2. Add a Kick: For a spicier version, stir in some chili flakes, hot sauce, or diced jalapeños for added heat.
3. Make It Ahead: You can prepare the filling in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat it when you’re ready to serve.

Why This Sloppy Joe Recipe Stands Out

• Sweet and Savory: The perfect balance of sweetness from the brown sugar and tang from the vinegar creates a mouthwatering flavor profile.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinners.
• Great for Meal Prep: This recipe scales easily, making it great for meal prepping or serving a large group.

Try These Sloppy Joes Today!

These classic Sloppy Joes are a crowd-pleasing favorite that everyone will enjoy. With their savory filling and satisfying taste, they’re perfect for family meals or casual get-togethers. Try making them today and share your thoughts in the comments below!