Classic Sloppy Joe's
Classic homemade Sloppy Joes made with ground beef, ketchup, tomato sauce, and spices. This easy one skillet comfort food recipe is perfect for quick weeknight dinners.
Servings: 6 people
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef 80/20
- 1 yellow onion finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper seeded and chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced (more as desired)
- ½ cup ketchup
- 8 ounces canned tomato paste
- 1 ½ tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon mustard powder
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 6 brioche hamburger buns
- sliced cheese
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium high heat, add the ground beef, chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Cook for about 5 minutes, breaking up the beef with a spoon, until the meat is fully cooked and the vegetables are softened.
- Drain any excess fat from the skillet and return the pan to the heat.
- Add the ketchup, tomato sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard powder, and paprika. Season with salt and pepper and stir to combine.
- Reduce the heat to medium and let the mixture simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and the mixture becomes perfectly sloppy. If the mixture becomes too thick, add a splash of water to loosen it.
- Spoon the Sloppy Joe mixture onto toasted hamburger buns and top with sliced American cheese if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Use 80/20 beef. The fat keeps the meat flavorful and prevents the filling from becoming dry.
- Chop the vegetables small. Small onion and pepper pieces melt into the sauce and create a better sandwich texture.
- Drain—but not completely. Remove excess grease, but leave a little behind for flavor and richness.
- Simmer long enough. The 15-minute simmer lets the ketchup, tomato sauce, sugar, and vinegar balance out. The mixture should thicken and coat the beef.
- Adjust the “sloppy.” If it becomes too thick, add a tablespoon or two of water. If it’s too loose, simmer uncovered a few extra minutes.
- Toast the buns. A quick butter-toasted bun prevents sogginess and adds texture.
- Add cheese at the end. American cheese melts quickly and gives the sandwich that classic diner vibe.
Nutrition
Calories: 274kcal | Carbohydrates: 20g | Protein: 15g | Fat: 16g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 7g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 54mg | Sodium: 583mg | Potassium: 755mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 14g | Vitamin A: 1467IU | Vitamin C: 37mg | Calcium: 45mg | Iron: 3mg