Sloppy Joes are a classic American comfort food that brings back childhood memories of messy, delicious bites full of flavor. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a kid-approved meal, or a nostalgic dish that never gets old, these Sloppy Joes are the perfect solution.
What you need to make the best sloppy joes + substitutions:
- Ground Beef– Ground beef is a versatile and flavorful meat commonly used in burgers, tacos, meatloaf, and pasta dishes. We like grass-fed beef and/or organic. Ground turkey and chicken would work fine as well.
- Yellow onion– Yellow onions are a kitchen essential and add so much flavor to meals.
- Green bell pepper– Green bell pepper is a crisp, mildly sweet vegetable with a slightly grassy flavor, commonly used in salads, stir-fries, and savory dishes.
- Carrot– Carrot adds a slight crunch and sweetness to these sloppy joes.
- Celery– Celery is a crisp, mildly salty vegetable with a refreshing crunch.
- Ketchup– Ketchup is a tangy, sweet, and slightly acidic tomato-based condiment that adds great texture and sweetness.
- Worcestershire sauce– Worcestershire is a savory, tangy, and slightly sweet fermented condiment made from vinegar, molasses, anchovies, and spices, adding depth of flavor to these sloppy joes.
- Beef broth– We love using our homemade broth, but if we use store bought our favorite is kettle and fire. You can use the code DADDIOSKITCHEN for 20% off.
- Sea salt– We use Redmond sea salt, it’s our favorite and we use it in everything! You can use the code daddioskitchen for 15% off. We get the big big bag! 🙂
- Paprika– Paprika is a vibrant red spice made from dried and ground peppers, and adds a great flavor to this dish!
- Black pepper– Black pepper adds warmth and depth.
Tips for the Best Sloppy Joes
- Use Quality Beef: Opt for 80/20 ground beef for the best balance of flavor and juiciness.
- Toast the Buns: Toasting adds texture and prevents sogginess.
- Add Extra Flavor: A splash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper adds a slight kick.
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Alright, let’s get to making the recipe!
The Best Sloppy Joes
Sloppy Joes are a classic American comfort food that brings back childhood memories of messy, delicious bites full of flavor. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a kid-approved meal, or a nostalgic dish that never gets old, these Sloppy Joes are the perfect solution.
Servings 6 people
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- ½ yellow onion, finely chopped
- ⅓ cup green bell pepper, finely chopped
- ⅓ cup carrot
- ½ cup celery
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- ⅔ cup ketchup
- 8 oz tomato sauce
- ⅓ cup beef broth
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp black pepper
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add oil.
- Add in the ground beef. Season with sea salt, paprika, & pepper. Cook until browned. Remove from the pan once cooked.
- Then pour in the the chopped onion, bell pepper, carrot & celery to the skillet. Season with a sprinkle of sea salt & pepper. Sauté until the vegetables are tender. 5-7 minutes. Add in the ketchup, beef broth, & Worcestershire sauce.
- Optional step: Add the chopped vegetables and sauce to a blender and mix until blended together to mask the chunkiness of veggies or you can leave it chunky.
- Add the beef back into the pan and pour in the blended vegetable mixture. Warm it all together in the pan. Serve hot and enjoy with or without a bun!
Notes
For Storing: Store in airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.