Description
This classic Sloppy Joe recipe features a savory ground beef mixture cooked with onions, green bell peppers, and a tangy tomato-based sauce. Perfectly simmered to meld flavors and served on toasted hamburger buns, it’s a hearty and satisfying meal ideal for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper
Sauce and Seasonings
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Buns
- 4 hamburger buns
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef and break it apart using a spatula. Cook until fully browned and no longer pink, then drain any excess fat from the skillet.
- Cook vegetables: Add the chopped onion and green bell pepper to the skillet with the beef. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables soften, stirring occasionally for even cooking.
- Add sauce ingredients: Stir in the ketchup, brown sugar, yellow mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Combine well, making sure all ingredients are evenly mixed. Reduce the heat to low.
- Simmer the mixture: Let the beef mixture simmer gently for 15-20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Toast buns: While the mixture simmers, toast the hamburger buns in a toaster or in a dry skillet until lightly crispy and golden brown, enhancing texture and flavor.
- Assemble and serve: Spoon a generous portion of the sloppy joe mixture onto the bottom halves of the toasted buns. Top with the other halves and serve immediately while hot.
Notes
- For a leaner option, use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
- Add a splash of hot sauce or chili powder for a slight kick.
- Serve with pickles or sliced cheese on top for extra flavor.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop or microwave until heated through.
