Description
This Easy Homemade Sloppy Joe recipe is a quick and flavorful American classic made with lean ground beef, sautéed vegetables, and a tangy, sweet sauce. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner served on toasted hamburger buns.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 1 large green bell pepper, diced
- 1 1/2 pounds lean ground beef (85 or 90%)
Seasonings and Sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed hot red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon cider vinegar
- 1 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1/2 cup water (plus more if needed)
Serving
- 4 hamburger buns
Instructions
- Saute Vegetables: Heat a large pan over medium heat and add the olive oil. Add the diced onion and green bell pepper, and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Brow the Beef: Increase heat to medium-high and add the ground beef to the pan. Break up the meat with a spoon and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in salt, chili powder, and red pepper flakes to season evenly.
- Add Garlic: Reduce heat to medium and stir in the minced garlic. Cook for another 2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the garlic is very fragrant but not browned.
- Simmer with Sauce: Add ketchup, brown sugar, cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and water to the pan. Stir well to combine all ingredients and allow the mixture to simmer gently over low heat so the flavors meld together.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sloppy joe mixture and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Continue to simmer until the sauce thickens to your liking and is rich in flavor.
- Toast the Buns: While the beef simmers, heat a pan or griddle over medium heat with a touch of olive oil. Place hamburger buns cut side down on the hot surface and toast for 1-2 minutes until golden and lightly crispy.
- Assemble and Serve: Spoon the sloppy joe mixture evenly over the toasted buns. Serve immediately while hot and enjoy your homemade sloppy joes!
Notes
- Use lean ground beef (85-90%) to avoid excessive grease.
- If you prefer milder flavor, reduce or omit red pepper flakes.
- Adjust water quantity to reach desired sauce consistency.
- For a deeper flavor, simmer longer on low heat before serving.
- Serve with a side of coleslaw or pickles for a classic combo.
