Sloppy joes

Sloppy Joes are a classic American comfort food featuring ground beef simmered with onion, garlic, chili powder, tomato sauce, and brown sugar for a savory yet slightly sweet filling. This simple recipe provides a satisfying meal perfect for weeknights or gatherings.

28 Jan 2026
Cook time 20 min
Prep time 5 min

Ingredients:

1 tbsp olive oil
1 onion
2 garlic cloves
20 oz ground beef (80/20%)
1 tsp chili powder
1/2 cup tomato sauce
2 tsp brown sugar
Sloppy joes

Sloppy Joes are a classic American comfort food, perfect for busy weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. Made with ground beef cooked in a savory and slightly sweet sauce, these sandwiches are a hit with both kids and adults. This recipe guides you through creating delicious Sloppy Joes that everyone will love.

Instructions:

1. Prepare Ingredients:
- Finely chop the onion.
- Mince the garlic cloves.
2. Heat the Oil:
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat until hot.
3. Cook the Onion and Garlic:
- Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-6 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Brown the Ground Beef:
- Add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart with a wooden spoon and cook until browned and no longer pink, about 7-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
5. Add Seasoning:
- Sprinkle 1 teaspoon of chili powder over the browned beef. Stir to combine and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
6. Simmer the Sauce:
- Pour in 1/2 cup of tomato sauce and add 2 teaspoons of brown sugar. Stir to mix everything together.
- Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer, uncovered, for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally so the flavors can meld together.
7. Adjust Seasoning:
- Taste the mixture and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
8. Serving:
- Once the sauce has thickened to your liking, your Sloppy Joe mixture is ready to be served.
- Spoon the mixture onto your favorite buns or rolls and serve hot.

There you have it—delicious, homemade Sloppy Joes that are sure to be a hit at your dinner table. Simple to make and full of flavor, this recipe is perfect for any quick meal. Pair them with crispy French fries or a fresh salad for a complete meal!

Sloppy joes FAQ:

What is the best way to store leftover Sloppy Joes?

Store leftover Sloppy Joes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the mixture for up to 3 months; just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How do I know when the ground beef is fully cooked?

Ground beef is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) and is no longer pink. Make sure to break it apart and check for any pink spots.

What substitutions can I make for the ground beef?

You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based ground meat alternative for the ground beef. Adjust cooking times as necessary based on the substitute used.

Can I make Sloppy Joes in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the Sloppy Joe mixture in advance. Cook it, let it cool, and then store it in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze it for longer storage. Reheat before serving.

What pan size is best for making Sloppy Joes?

A large skillet or frying pan (about 12 inches) works best for making Sloppy Joes, as it provides enough space for browning the beef and simmering the sauce without overcrowding.

Tips:

- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh onion and garlic elevate the flavors of your Sloppy Joes. Make sure to finely chop them for a smoother texture.

- Don't Skimp on the Browning: Allow the ground beef to brown properly for an extra layer of flavor. This step is crucial for developing the rich taste of the dish.

- Adjust Sweetness and Spice: Feel free to tweak the amount of brown sugar and chili powder to suit your taste preferences. If you like it spicier, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper.

- Serve Immediately: For the best experience, serve the Sloppy Joe mixture immediately on toasted buns. This helps keep the buns from getting overly soggy.

Nutrition per serving

6 Servings
Calories 260kcal
Protein 16g
Carbohydrates 4.99g
Fiber 1.11g
Sugar 3.27g
Fat 22g

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