There’s something irresistibly comforting about a perfectly crafted Sloppy Joe, and this recipe delivers just that. Juicy ground beef mingles with a tangy-sweet sauce, creating a rich, savory flavor that’s impossible to resist. The soft, pillowy bun soaks up every bit of the hearty filling, while a hint of crunch from fresh toppings adds the perfect contrast. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s a quick yet satisfying meal that feels like a warm hug on a busy day.
This dish isn’t just delicious—it’s a crowd-pleaser that brings everyone to the table. The bold, smoky aroma fills the kitchen, promising a meal that’s as hearty as it is flavorful. With a balance of protein, carbs, and a touch of sweetness, it’s a wholesome option that doesn’t skimp on indulgence. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, these Sloppy Joes are sure to leave everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients for The Best Sloppy Joe Recipe
- 1 Tablespoon olive oil
- ½ cup finely chopped yellow onion (about ½ a medium onion)
- ½ cup finely chopped red bell pepper
- 1 lb ground beef (90% lean recommended)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon mustard powder (or 1 teaspoon prepared yellow mustard)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ cup (121 g) tomato paste (4 oz)
- 3-4 Tablespoons light brown sugar (firmly packed)
- 3 Tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 Tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ cup (118 ml) chicken broth (beef broth or water can be substituted)
- Burger buns (for serving)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Heat the oil: In a large saucepan, heat 1 Tablespoon olive oil over medium heat.
- Cook the vegetables: Add ½ cup finely chopped yellow onion and ½ cup finely chopped red bell pepper. Cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Brown the beef: Add 1 lb ground beef and cook until browned, crumbling as you cook. Drain off excess grease if needed.
- Add the spices: Stir in 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon onion powder, ½ teaspoon mustard powder (or prepared mustard), 1 teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon ground black pepper.
- Combine the sauce: Add ½ cup tomato paste, 3-4 Tablespoons light brown sugar, 3 Tablespoons apple cider vinegar, and 1 Tablespoon Worcestershire sauce. Stir until well-combined.
- Add the liquid: Drizzle in ½ cup chicken broth (or substitute with beef broth or water).
- Simmer: Reduce heat to a simmer and cook, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens, about 10-15 minutes.
- Serve: Spoon the Sloppy Joe mixture onto burger buns and serve warm.
Perfect Pairings: Sauce and Topping Ideas
Elevate your Sloppy Joes with a dollop of creamy coleslaw or a slice of melty cheddar cheese on top. For a tangy twist, try adding a spoonful of pickled jalapeños or a drizzle of spicy sriracha mayo. These additions bring extra flavor and texture to every bite!
Serve It Up: Creative Serving Suggestions
While classic burger buns are a go-to, why not switch things up? Serve your Sloppy Joe mixture over buttered toast, baked potatoes, or even tortilla chips for a fun twist. Pair it with a side of crispy sweet potato fries or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal.
Make It Last: Storage and Reheating Tips
Store leftover Sloppy Joe mixture in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water to keep it moist. It also freezes well for up to 3 months—just thaw and reheat when ready to enjoy!
Mix It Up: Recipe Variations to Try
For a leaner option, swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. Vegetarian? Use lentils or crumbled tofu as a meat substitute. Add a smoky kick with a dash of chipotle powder or sweeten it up with a bit of maple syrup instead of brown sugar.
Quick Tips: Time-Saving Hacks
Save time by prepping your onion and bell pepper in advance and storing them in the fridge. Use a food processor to chop veggies quickly. If you’re in a rush, skip the simmering step—just cook until heated through and enjoy a slightly saucier version!
The Best Sloppy Joe Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 Tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup finely chopped yellow onion about ½ a medium onion
- 1/2 cup finely chopped red bell pepper
- 1 lb ground beef I like to use 90%
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder or 1 teaspoon prepared yellow mustard
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 cup tomato paste 4 oz
- 3-4 Tablespoons light brown sugar firmly packed
- 3 Tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 Tablespoon worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 cup chicken broth beef broth, or water
- Burger buns for serving
Instructions
- Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
- Add onion and pepper and cook until softened.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned, crumbling as you cook. Drain off excess grease if needed.
- Add spices (smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder (or mustard), salt and pepper) and stir into the beef.
- Add tomato paste, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and worcestershire and stir until well-combined.
- Drizzle in broth or water.
- Reduce heat to a simmer and cook, stirring occasionally, until thickened, about 10-15 minutes.
- Serve warm on buns.