Description
This Easy Homemade Sloppy Joe recipe features a savory blend of ground beef, sautéed vegetables, and a tangy, sweet tomato-based sauce. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a classic American comfort food perfect for quick weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. The mixture is simmered to perfection and served on toasted hamburger buns for a satisfying, hearty meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 1 large green bell pepper, diced
- 1 1/2 pounds lean ground beef (85% or 90% lean)
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed hot red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon cider vinegar
- 1 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1/2 cup water (plus more if needed)
- 4 hamburger buns
Instructions
- Saute Vegetables: Heat a large pan over medium heat and add the olive oil. Add the diced onion and green bell pepper, sautéing until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Brown the Beef: Increase heat to medium-high and add the ground beef. Break it up with a spoon and cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in salt, chili powder, and crushed red pepper flakes to evenly season the beef.
- Add Garlic: Reduce heat to medium, stir in minced garlic, and cook for another 2 minutes while stirring frequently, ensuring the garlic becomes fragrant but not browned.
- Simmer with Sauce: Add ketchup, brown sugar, cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and water to the pan. Stir well to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer gently over low heat so the flavors meld together.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sloppy joe mixture and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Continue simmering until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency and the flavor is rich.
- Toast the Buns: While the beef mixture simmers, preheat a pan or griddle over medium heat. Add a touch of olive oil and place the hamburger buns cut side down onto the hot surface. Toast for 1-2 minutes until golden and lightly crispy.
- Assemble and Serve: Spoon the hot sloppy joe mixture evenly onto the toasted buns and serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, increase the crushed red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a little more water to reach desired consistency.
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Serve with coleslaw or pickles for added crunch and flavor contrast.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheat well on the stovetop or microwave.
