Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Best Sloppy Joe Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star No reviews
  • Author: Molly Yeh
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This classic Sloppy Joe recipe is a family favorite with perfectly seasoned ground beef in a sweet and tangy tomato-based sauce. It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor—perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!


Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 1 small onion, finely chopped

  • 1/2 green bell pepper, finely chopped

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 3/4 cup ketchup

  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste

  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

  • 1 tablespoon yellow mustard

  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar

  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder

  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

  • 4 hamburger buns

  • Optional toppings: sliced pickles, shredded cheese, coleslaw


Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and bell pepper, and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.

  2. Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

  3. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon, about 6–8 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.

  4. Stir in ketchup, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, brown sugar, chili powder, salt, and pepper.

  5. Simmer the mixture over low heat for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.

  6. Toast the hamburger buns if desired.

  7. Spoon the Sloppy Joe mixture onto the buns and add optional toppings if using. Serve warm.


Notes

  • You can swap ground beef for ground turkey or plant-based meat for a lighter or vegetarian version.

  • This mixture freezes well—store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

  • For extra flavor, toast the buns with a little butter on a skillet.


Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 sandwich
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 450
  • Sodium: 850mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 11g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 65mg