HOMEMADE SLOPPY JOES

Step away from the canned sauce and give these homemade sloppy joes a try! They’re truly the best version of a childhood favorite!

As we head into the upcoming holiday season, I’ve been thinking about family-friendly meals. You know, those meals that your kids always want to eat. In our house, this Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese is number one on our list… with these sloppy joes being number two! With two little ones myself, I know all too well how frustrating it is to cook a meal and have them promptly turn up their noses and say it’s “gross”. *facepalm*

I’ve always been a fan of classic sloppy joes. There’s something so innately satisfying about the sweet and savory combination and messiness of it all! And I know you all love them too, since I’ve been getting a lot of requests for sloppy joe recipes.

I’ve made a lot of sloppy joe recipes lately, trying to come up with the perfect one. Some were too sweet, others too spicy. Well, guys, I finally got it. The perfect balance. This sloppy joe recipe is sweet, tangy, zesty, and savory, with the perfect texture and consistency.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This homemade sloppy joe recipe is a hit for several reasons:

• Quick and easy to prepare, ready in just 20 minutes.
• A perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors.
• Uses simple ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen.
• Kid-approved and great for family dinners.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large skillet
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Knife and cutting board

Ingredients

• 1 Tbsp butter
• 1 tsp olive oil
• 1 lb. ground beef
• 1/3 green bell pepper, minced
• 1/2 large yellow onion, minced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 Tbsp tomato paste
• 2/3 cup ketchup
• 1/3 cup water
• 1 Tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp yellow mustard
• 3/4 tsp chili powder
• 1/2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• Dash of hot sauce (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Heat butter and oil in a large skillet over medium to medium-high heat.
2. Add ground beef and brown it, breaking it apart into crumbles as it cooks, about 5 minutes. Drain excess fat.
3. Add the onion and bell pepper to the same skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until soft.
4. Add garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Return beef to the skillet and add tomato paste. Stir well.
6. Add ketchup, water, brown sugar, mustard, chili powder, Worcestershire sauce, salt, red pepper flakes (if using), and black pepper. Stir to combine.
7. Cook over medium heat for 10-15 minutes until the mixture has thickened to your liking.
8. Remove from heat and serve over toasted buns.

Tips for Success

• Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
• Adjust the seasoning to your taste; add more chili powder for heat or more sugar for sweetness.
• Toast the buns for added texture and flavor.

Additional Tips and Variations

• Try using ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Add a dash of your favorite barbecue sauce for a smoky flavor.
• Top with shredded cheese, pickles, or coleslaw for extra crunch.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

Calories: 300, Protein: 20g, Carbs: 25g, Fat: 15g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the sloppy joe mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Absolutely! Store the mixture in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

What can I serve with sloppy joes?

Sloppy joes go great with potato chips, coleslaw, or a simple side salad.

Conclusion

There you have it, a homemade sloppy joe recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite! Easy to make and packed with flavor, these sloppy joes are perfect for any occasion. I invite you to give this recipe a try and share your experiences in the comments below. Enjoy your meal!