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This easy Sloppy Joes recipe is a quick and satisfying meal, perfect for busy weeknights. With just a few pantry staples, you can whip up a rich, sweet, and tangy filling that’s far better than anything from a can. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving a nostalgic, comforting meal, this recipe will hit the spot!
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Cuisine: American
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 6
Why You’ll Love Making It
- Quick & Easy – Ready in just 20 minutes, making it a go-to for busy nights.
- Minimal Ingredients – Just three pantry staples transform ground beef into a flavorful dish.
- Budget-Friendly – Uses affordable, everyday ingredients to feed the whole family.
- Customizable – Add veggies, swap the beef for turkey, or spice it up with seasonings.
- Kid-Approved – A delicious meal that even picky eaters will love.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef – Lean ground beef works best, but ground turkey or chicken can be used as a lighter option.
- 1/8 cup brown sugar – Adds a subtle sweetness to balance the tangy ketchup and mustard.
- 1/8 cup mustard – Classic yellow mustard gives it a mild tang, but Dijon or spicy mustard can be used for extra depth.
- 1/2 cup ketchup – The base of the sauce, adding sweetness and acidity.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (optional) – Enhances the flavors, especially if using lean meat.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper – Adds a mild kick to balance the sweetness.
- 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (optional but recommended) – Deepens the umami flavor.
- Hamburger buns – Soft sandwich buns or brioche buns work best. Lightly toasting them adds great texture.
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Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Meat
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and break it apart using a spatula. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is fully browned and no longer pink.
Step 2: Drain the Fat
Once browned, drain any excess grease from the skillet to prevent the mixture from becoming too oily.
Step 3: Add the Sauce Ingredients
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the brown sugar, mustard, and ketchup. If using, add Worcestershire sauce for an extra depth of flavor. Season with salt and black pepper, stirring until everything is evenly combined.
Step 4: Simmer and Thicken
Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. This helps the flavors meld together and thickens the sauce slightly, creating the perfect consistency for serving.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
Spoon the sloppy joe mixture onto hamburger buns and serve immediately. For extra flavor, toast the buns before assembling. Serve with your favorite sides like coleslaw, potato chips, pickles, or a simple green salad.
FAQs
Can I make Sloppy Joes ahead of time?
Yes! Sloppy Joes taste even better the next day. Store the mixture in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce.
How can I make this Sloppy Joes recipe healthier?
For a lighter version, use ground turkey instead of beef. You can also reduce the sugar or use a natural alternative like honey. Adding finely chopped bell peppers or carrots to the mixture boosts the nutrition while keeping the flavors balanced.
