Craving a comforting, nostalgic meal? These Homemade Sloppy Joes are the ultimate twist on a classic! Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, this recipe features perfectly seasoned ground beef simmered in a rich, zesty sauce and served on toasted buns. Say goodbye to canned sauces—this homemade version is ready in just 20 minutes and is sure to become a family favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes from start to finish.
- Homemade Goodness: Skip canned sauce and make a flavorful, fresh Sloppy Joe sauce from scratch.
- Family-Friendly: The perfect comfort food for kids and adults alike.
- Customizable: Add more spice, switch up your meat, or top with cheese for extra indulgence.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
- 1 tbsp butter or olive oil
- 1/2 large yellow onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup green bell pepper, finely diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb lean ground beef (85–90% lean)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 3/4 cup ketchup
- 2/3 cup water
- 1 tbsp brown sugar (adjust to taste)
- 2 tsp yellow mustard
- 1/2 tsp chili powder (or more to taste)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 4 hamburger buns, toasted if desired
Instructions
- Sauté the Vegetables: Heat butter or olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened. Add bell pepper and cook for another 2 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Cook the Beef: Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until no longer pink, about 5 minutes.
- Prepare the Sauce: Stir in ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, water, brown sugar, mustard, chili powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Simmer: Reduce heat to medium and let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and flavors meld.
- Serve: Spoon the Sloppy Joe mixture onto toasted hamburger buns. Add toppings like cheese, pickles, or coleslaw if desired. Enjoy!
Tips & Variations
- Switch the Meat: Try ground turkey, chicken, pork, or a plant-based alternative.
- Add More Veggies: Mushrooms, zucchini, or grated carrots are great additions.
- Cheesy Sloppy Joes: Melt a slice of cheddar, American, or your favorite cheese on top before serving.
- Make Ahead & Freeze: Cool the mixture completely, store in freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with crispy fries, potato chips, or a side of creamy coleslaw.
- Serve with pickles or a fresh side salad for extra crunch.
- Toasted brioche buns add a slightly sweet, rich flavor that complements the savory sauce.
Nutrition (per serving)
- Calories: 371 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sugar: 17 g
These Homemade Sloppy Joes are quick, easy, and bursting with flavor—a perfect way to enjoy a classic comfort food right from your own kitchen.