Best-Ever Sloppy Joes Recipe
Sloppy Joes are the ultimate weeknight meal. They are easy to make and come together pretty quickly. They are messy and delicious—you will definitely need a few napkins and a fork!
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1 green or red pepper, diced small
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dry mustard
- ¼ tsp oregano
- ¼ tsp dried red pepper flakes, optional
- 1 cup chicken stock/broth
- 1 cup tomato puree (passata)
- ⅓ cup ketchup
- 1 tbsp unsulfured molasses or dark brown
- sugar
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- Pepper to taste
- 4 hamburger buns (I like potato buns)
Instructions
- 1
Heat oil in a large skillet over high heat. Add ground beef. Cook beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until all browned, about 6-8 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, remove the beef to a bowl or a plate.
- 2
Add onion and salt. Cook, stirring a little until slightly translucent, about 3-5 minutes.
- 3
Add diced pepper. Cook, stirring for 1-2 minutes. Add garlic, stir through. Add tomato paste and cook while mixing through for 1 minute.
- 4
Add chili powder, paprika, onion powder, dry mustard, oregano and red pepper flakes. Stir for 1 minute or until fragrant.
- 5
Add stock, tomato puree, ketchup, unsulfured molasses or brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce and apple cider vinegar. Stir.
- 6
Add the beef and the accumulated juices back to the pan. Bring to a simmer uncovered and cook for 15 minutes. It should be thick and ragu-like but not dry. If it is too thin, keep cooking; if it is too thick, add a little more stock.
- 7
Taste for salt and pepper and add as needed.
- 8
Spoon mixture onto buns and serve with chips or potato wedges. Serves 4
Tips & Storage
- How to Store
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Can I Freeze This?
- Most recipes freeze well for up to 3 months. Cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
- Make Ahead Tip
- This recipe can be prepared in advance. Simply reheat when ready to serve.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make Best-Ever Sloppy Joes?
This Best-Ever Sloppy Joes recipe by Carolyn Cohen includes step-by-step instructions that are easy to follow. You'll need 22 ingredients and the recipe is designed for home cooks of all skill levels.
What goes well with this best-ever sloppy joes?
This recipe pairs well with a variety of dishes. Try it as part of a complete meal with complementary sides, salads, or proteins.