Homemade Sloppy Joes
Homemade Sloppy Joes
A classic American comfort food featuring tender ground beef cooked in a tangy, slightly sweet tomato-based sauce. These sloppy joes are quick to make, perfect for family dinners, and are best served on soft hamburger buns with your favorite sides.
Ingredients
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1 lb (450 g) ground beef
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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1 small green bell pepper, finely chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1/2 cup (120 ml) ketchup
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2 tbsp tomato paste
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2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
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1 tbsp brown sugar
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1 tsp mustard (yellow or Dijon)
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1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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4–6 hamburger buns
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Optional toppings: pickles, shredded cheese
Instructions
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Cook the Beef:
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat if needed. -
Add Vegetables:
Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet. Cook 3–4 minutes until softened. -
Prepare the Sauce:
Stir in ketchup, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, mustard, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine. -
Simmer:
Reduce heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and flavors meld together. -
Serve:
Spoon the sloppy joe mixture onto hamburger buns. Top with pickles or shredded cheese if desired. Serve immediately.
Equipment
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Large skillet
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Wooden spoon or spatula
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Knife and cutting board
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Measuring cups and spoons
Timing
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
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Cook Time: 20 minutes
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Total Time: 30 minutes
Serving Size
Serves 4–6
Homemade Sloppy Joes

Equipment
- Large skillet
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 1 lb 450 g ground beef
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 1 small green bell pepper finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1/2 cup 120 ml ketchup
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp mustard yellow or Dijon
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika optional
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 –6 hamburger buns
- Optional toppings: pickles shredded cheese
Instructions
- Cook the Beef:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Add Vegetables:
- Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet. Cook 3–4 minutes until softened.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- Stir in ketchup, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, mustard, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
- Simmer:
- Reduce heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and flavors meld together.
- Serve:
- Spoon the sloppy joe mixture onto hamburger buns. Top with pickles or shredded cheese if desired. Serve immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes. Substitute the ground beef with cooked lentils, plant-based ground meat, or finely chopped mushrooms.
2. Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely. Use the same amount of ground turkey or chicken; cooking time may be slightly shorter.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes. Prepare the meat mixture up to a day in advance, then store in the fridge and reheat before serving.
4. How can I make the sauce spicier?
Add 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper, hot sauce, or chopped jalapeños to taste.
5. Can I freeze Sloppy Joe mixture?
Yes. Allow the mixture to cool, then store in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
6. Can I use a slow cooker?
Yes. Brown the meat and sauté the vegetables first, then add the sauce ingredients to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 3–4 hours.
7. Can I use BBQ sauce instead of ketchup?
Yes. It will give a smoky, tangy flavor. You can also use a mix of ketchup and BBQ sauce for balance.
8. How do I prevent buns from getting soggy?
Toast the buns lightly before adding the Sloppy Joe mixture. Serve immediately after assembling.
9. Can I add vegetables for extra nutrition?
Yes. Finely chopped carrots, zucchini, or mushrooms can be added along with the onion and bell pepper.
10. Can I serve this over something other than buns?
Yes. Try it over rice, mashed potatoes, baked potatoes, or even inside lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.
How To Store Homemade Sloppy Joes
Refrigerator:
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Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
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Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave until heated through.
Freezer:
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Store cooled Sloppy Joe mixture in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months.
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Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Buns:
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Store separately in a sealed bag at room temperature for 2–3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.