Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 1/2 pounds lean ground beef (90/10)
- 1 small sweet onion, diced
- 1 small green bell pepper, diced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 1/2 cups beef stock
- 1 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Brown the Beef: Heat the vegetable oil in a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook for about 3-5 minutes, crumbling it as it cooks until browned. Drain excess fat to keep the dish lean.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add the diced onion and green bell pepper to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add Seasonings: Stir in the tomato paste, minced garlic, smoked paprika, chili powder, and cayenne pepper. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Deglaze the Pan: Pour in the beef stock, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet to incorporate deep flavors into the sauce.
- Add Sauces and Simmer: Stir in the ketchup, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and brown sugar. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer gently, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and the flavors meld, about 15-20 minutes.
- Serve: Once thickened, remove from heat and serve the sloppy joe mixture immediately on buns or your preferred accompaniment.
Notes
- For a spicier version, increase the cayenne pepper slightly.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, continue simmering until desired consistency is reached.
- Sloppy Joes are best served on toasted buns with optional cheese, pickles, or coleslaw.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated on the stovetop.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Entree
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American