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Classic Homemade Sloppy Joes Recipe

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★★★★★

4.2 from 52 reviews

This homemade Sloppy Joe recipe features lean ground beef simmered in a rich, tangy tomato sauce with a perfect balance of sweetness and acidity. Served on toasted hamburger buns, this classic American comfort food is easy to prepare, making it an ideal lunch or dinner option for the whole family.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Sauce

  • 15 oz can tomato sauce
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 1 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 1/2 tsp yellow mustard, or to taste
  • 2–3 tsp brown sugar, or to taste

For the Sloppy Joes

  • 1 Tbsp extra light olive oil, or any high-heat cooking oil
  • 1 lb lean ground beef, 85%-90% lean
  • ½ tsp fine sea salt, or to taste
  • ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper, or to taste
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 small green bell pepper, seeded and finely diced, or use 1/2 cup grated carrot
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 5 hamburger buns, toasted if desired

Instructions

  1. Make the Sauce: In a medium bowl, combine the tomato sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, and brown sugar. Mix well and set aside to allow flavors to meld.
  2. Cook the Beef: Heat a large skillet or dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add olive oil followed by the ground beef. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the beef is fully cooked and no longer pink, breaking it up with a spatula. Drain excess fat by tilting the pan and spooning it out or blotting with paper towels. Season with salt and pepper.
  3. Add Vegetables: Stir in diced green bell pepper and chopped onion. Continue cooking for another 5 minutes until the vegetables soften and the beef browns evenly. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
  4. Add the Sauce and Simmer: Pour in the prepared sauce mixture and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 10-15 minutes until thickened to your preference. Stir occasionally and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add water if you prefer a thinner consistency.
  5. Serve: Spoon the hearty Sloppy Joe mixture onto toasted hamburger buns and serve immediately for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Notes

  • Ketchup adds depth, acidity, and sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor of the sauce.
  • Adjust brown sugar according to the sweetness of your ketchup; start with 2 teaspoons and add more if necessary.
  • Use the Sloppy Joe tasting guide to fine-tune flavors: add salt or apple-cider vinegar if too sweet, brown sugar or extra ketchup if too tangy, extra Worcestershire for depth, simmer longer to thicken, or add water to loosen the sauce.

Keywords: Sloppy Joes, ground beef sandwich, tomato sauce, family dinner, easy recipe, American comfort food

Find it online: https://foodarohub.com/classic-homemade-sloppy-joes-recipe/