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Homemade Sloppy Joes Recipe

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3.9 from 6 reviews

This classic Homemade Sloppy Joes recipe features a savory mixture of lean ground beef, aromatic vegetables, and a tangy, slightly sweet tomato-based sauce simmered to perfection. It's a comforting and hearty meal that comes together in under an hour, perfect for casual family dinners or easy entertaining.

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. Add Seasonings: Stir in the tomato paste, minced garlic, smoked paprika, chili powder, and cayenne pepper. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  • Author: Chef
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Entree
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American