What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade Sloppy Joe recipe is a crowd-pleaser, packed with flavor and easy to make. You’ll love how it brings back childhood memories while tasting even better than the store-bought version.
- Quick and simple—ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Bold, savory flavor—a delicious mix of tangy, sweet, and smoky tastes.
- Family-friendly—kids and adults alike will go back for seconds.
Recipe
Craving a classic comfort food that’s quick and easy to make? This homemade Sloppy Joe recipe is perfect for satisfying your taste buds with its savory, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors. Made with ground beef and a simple yet delicious sauce, it’s a crowd-pleaser for any meal.
Ingredients:
1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 small green bell pepper, finely chopped
1 cup ketchup
2 tbsp tomato paste
2 tbsp brown sugar
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tbsp yellow mustard
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
6 hamburger buns
Instructions:
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it into small pieces with a spoon. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the chopped onion and green bell pepper to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the ketchup, tomato paste, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine.
- Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
- Toast the hamburger buns if desired. Scoop the Sloppy Joe mixture onto the buns and serve immediately.
Notes:
For a leaner option, substitute ground turkey or chicken. For added heat, include a dash of hot sauce or chili powder.
Equipment:
Large skillet, spoon, measuring cups and spoons, knife, cutting board.
Time:
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Cuisine:
American
Serving:
6 servings
Nutrition
This homemade sloppy joe recipe is packed with flavor and nutrition. Here’s the breakdown per serving:
| Calories | Fat (g) | Carbs (g) | Protein (g) | Sodium (mg) | Sugar (g) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 320 | 10 | 38 | 18 | 680 | 12 |
What To Serve With It
When I make Sloppy Joes, I love pairing them with classic sides like crispy fries or coleslaw for a comforting meal, but I also enjoy getting creative by adding options like sweet potato wedges or a tangy cucumber salad. It’s fun to mix and match textures and flavors to keep things interesting. What are your go-to sides when you serve Sloppy Joes?
Classic Side Dishes
Though sloppy Joes are hearty enough to stand alone, pairing them with the right sides can make the meal even better. I love serving them with crispy french fries—their salty crunch balances the saucy richness. A simple coleslaw adds freshness, cutting through the bold flavors. Baked beans are another classic choice, their sweetness complementing the tangy meat. For something lighter, try buttered corn or steamed veggies. Don’t forget a pickle spear for that extra zing! These sides keep the meal comforting yet balanced. Trust me, they’ll turn your sloppy Joe night into a feast everyone remembers.
Creative Pairing Ideas
Beyond the classics, there’s a whole world of fun sides that can make your sloppy Joes shine. I love pairing them with sweet potato fries—they’re crispy, slightly sweet, and perfect for dipping. A tangy coleslaw adds a revitalizing crunch that cuts through the richness, while a bowl of chili beans brings a hearty touch. For something unexpected, try roasted Brussels sprouts with a drizzle of balsamic glaze—they balance the saucy flavor so well. And if you’re feeling adventurous, stuff your sloppy Joe mix into baked potatoes or tater tots. Trust me, these combos will make your meal unforgettable!
