What You’ll Love About This Recipe
You’ll love this homemade Sloppy Joe recipe because it’s simple, flavorful, and made with pantry staples you likely already have. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for busy nights or casual gatherings.
- It comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for quick meals.
- The bold, tangy sauce is perfectly balanced and so much better than store-bought versions.
- It’s versatile—serve it on buns, over rice, or even as a topping for baked potatoes.
Recipe
Sloppy Joes are a classic American comfort food, featuring a savory, slightly sweet meat sauce served on a soft bun. This homemade version is easy to make and packed with flavor, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp yellow mustard
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 6 hamburger buns
Instructions:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it into crumbles. Drain excess fat.
- Add onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.
- Serve the mixture on hamburger buns.
Notes:
- For a leaner option, substitute ground turkey or chicken.
- Adjust sweetness by reducing or increasing brown sugar to taste.
Equipment:
- Large skillet
- Wooden spoon
Time:
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 20 minutes
Cuisine: American
Serving: 6 sandwiches
Nutrition
This homemade sloppy joe recipe provides essential nutrients in every serving. Here’s a breakdown of its nutritional content per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Total Fat | 12g |
| Saturated Fat | 4g |
| Cholesterol | 45mg |
| Sodium | 800mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 35g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3g |
| Sugars | 10g |
| Protein | 20g |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my homemade sloppy joes with classic sides like crispy fries or buttery cornbread, but sometimes I’ll keep things light with a quick salad or fresh veggie sticks. The contrast of textures and flavors makes every bite more exciting, and it’s an easy way to round out the meal. Let me share some of my favorite combos that’ll have everyone asking for seconds!
Classic Side Dishes
Pairing up a homemade Sloppy Joe with the right side dishes can really pull the whole meal together, making it feel complete and satisfying. I love serving mine with crispy golden fries—they’re perfect for scooping up every last bit of saucy goodness. A simple coleslaw adds a revitalizing crunch, balancing the richness of the sandwich. Buttery corn on the cob or creamy mac and cheese are also classics that never disappoint. If I’m feeling extra, I’ll throw in some pickles for a tangy bite. These sides turn a messy sandwich into a comforting, well-rounded meal that everyone enjoys.
Quick Salad Ideas
While fries and coleslaw are classic choices, sometimes a fresh salad can brighten up a Sloppy Joe meal without weighing it down. I love tossing together a crisp garden salad with lettuce, cucumbers, tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette—it’s quick and adds a nice crunch. For something heartier, I mix kale, shredded carrots, and dried cranberries with a creamy dressing. Arugula salads with lemon juice and Parmesan are another favorite; their peppery flavor balances the sweetness of the Sloppy Joes. Even a simple Caesar or Greek salad works wonders. These salads keep things light while complementing the rich, savory flavors perfectly.
