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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.
Print Recipe
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:20 minutes
Total Time:30 minutes

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.
Servings: 6 servings