Homemade Sloppy Joes
Homemade Sloppy Joes are a classic American comfort food featuring a savory, tangy ground beef mixture served on soft buns. This easy one-pan recipe combines fresh vegetables and a flavorful homemade sauce for a satisfying family-friendly meal.
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 teaspoons olive oil for sautéing the vegetables and beef
- 1 pound ground beef choose lean for a healthier option
- ¼ cup green bell pepper finely chopped, adds crunch and color
- ½ cup yellow onion finely diced, provides sweetness and aroma
- 2 cloves garlic minced, for a punch of flavor
- 1 ½ cups ketchup the base of the sauce, providing sweetness and tang
- ¼ cup water to thin the sauce slightly
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar balances the acidity with sweetness
- 1 teaspoon yellow mustard adds a subtle tang and depth
- ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce enhances the savory umami flavor
- Salt and pepper to taste, for seasoning
Instructions
Prepare Your Ingredients
- Start by finely chopping the green bell pepper and dicing the yellow onion. Mince the garlic cloves so they’re ready to add a burst of flavor in the early cooking stages.
Sauté the Vegetables
- Heat 2 teaspoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and chopped green bell pepper. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables soften and the onions turn translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds to release its aroma.
Brown the Ground Beef
- Add the 1 pound of ground beef to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Break it apart with a wooden spoon and cook until it’s fully browned and no pink remains, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary to keep the dish from becoming greasy.
Combine the Sauce Ingredients
- Reduce the heat to low. Stir in 1 ½ cups ketchup, ¼ cup water, 2 tablespoons brown sugar, 1 teaspoon yellow mustard, and ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce. Mix everything together thoroughly to coat the beef evenly.
Simmer the Sloppy Joe Mixture
- Let the mixture simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
Serve and Enjoy
- Spoon the hot Sloppy Joe mixture onto toasted hamburger buns or your favorite sandwich bread. Serve immediately with your choice of sides like coleslaw, potato chips, or a fresh green salad.
Equipment
- Large Skillet
- Wooden Spoon
Notes
Use lean ground beef (90% lean or higher) to reduce excess grease. For extra flavor, add a splash of apple cider vinegar or smoked paprika. Simmer uncovered for a thicker sauce if desired. Toast buns lightly before serving to prevent sogginess. Variations include adding chili powder for spice, substituting ground beef with lentils for a vegetarian option, adding extra veggies like mushrooms or carrots, topping with cheese, or swapping brown sugar for honey or maple syrup.