Why Make This Recipe
Homemade Sloppy Joes are a classic comfort food that everyone loves. They are easy to make and full of flavor. You can whip them up for a quick weeknight dinner or serve them at a family gathering. Making them at home means you can control the ingredients and adjust the seasoning to your liking. Plus, they are budget-friendly and satisfying!
How to Make Homemade Sloppy Joes
Ingredients:
- 1 Tbsp butter
- 1 tsp olive oil
- 1 lb. ground beef
- 1/3 green bell pepper, minced
- 1/2 large yellow onion, minced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 Tbsp tomato paste
- 2/3 cup ketchup
- 1/3 cup water
Directions:
- In a pan, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the minced onions, green bell pepper, and garlic; sauté until softened.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned.
- Stir in the tomato paste, ketchup, and water, mixing well.
- Simmer for about 10 minutes until heated through.
- Serve on hamburger buns.
How to Serve Homemade Sloppy Joes
Serve your Sloppy Joes on soft hamburger buns. You can add pickles, cheese, or even coleslaw on top for extra flavor and texture. Pair them with a side of potato chips, fries, or a simple salad for a complete meal. They are also great for a casual get-together with friends!
How to Store Homemade Sloppy Joes
To store leftover Sloppy Joes, let the mixture cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until hot. You can also freeze the mixture for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Tips to Make Homemade Sloppy Joes
- For a spicier kick, add a dash of hot sauce or some chopped jalapeños.
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Use your favorite type of bun, such as whole wheat or gluten-free, to suit your dietary needs.
- If you want a thicker sauce, let it simmer a little longer to reduce the liquid.
Variation
You can make a vegetarian version by using lentils or plant-based ground meat. Just follow the same steps, substituting the meat for your choice of vegetarian protein.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based alternatives.
2. How can I make Sloppy Joes less messy?
Consider toasting the hamburger buns slightly before serving. This can help hold the filling better.
3. Can I add vegetables to the mixture?
Certainly! You can add diced carrots, corn, or even mushrooms to boost the nutrition and flavor.
Sloppy Joes
Ingredients
For the Sloppy Joe Filling
- 1 Tbsp butter For cooking
- 1 tsp olive oil For cooking
- 1 lb ground beef Can substitute with ground turkey or chicken
- 1/3 cup green bell pepper, minced Adds flavor and crunch
- 1/2 large yellow onion, minced Adds sweetness
- 3 cloves garlic, minced For flavor
- 1 Tbsp tomato paste To thicken the sauce
- 2/3 cup ketchup
- 1/3 cup water To adjust the sauce consistency
Instructions
Preparation
- In a pan, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the minced onions, green bell pepper, and garlic; sauté until softened.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned.
- Stir in the tomato paste, ketchup, and water, mixing well.
- Simmer for about 10 minutes until heated through.
Serving
- Serve the mixture on soft hamburger buns.
- Optional: Add pickles, cheese, or coleslaw on top for extra flavor.