Ground Beef Sloppy Joes

Name: Ground Beef Sloppy Joes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 small onion, diced; 1/2 green bell pepper, diced; 1 cup ketchup; 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 1 tbsp brown sugar; 1 tsp garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 hamburger buns; Pickles and shredded cheese for topping (optional)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Ground beef sloppy joes are a classic comfort food that brings together savory flavors in a deliciously messy sandwich. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.

Created by

Callie Morgan

Last updated on 2025-12-24T13:33:34.032Z

Sloppy Joes are a nostalgic dish that many remember from their childhood. With their flavorful sauce and tender ground beef, they make for an easy and satisfying meal that can be whipped up in no time.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Hearty and flavorful with a savory sauce
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy nights
Customizable with your favorite toppings and sides

      

A Comforting Classic

Ground beef sloppy joes have long been a staple of American cuisine, cherished for their simplicity and bold flavors. This dish combines ground beef with a tangy, sweet sauce, all served within a soft hamburger bun, making it the ultimate comfort food. Whether you’re reminiscing about childhood dinners or introducing this classic to a new generation, sloppy joes are sure to satisfy.

The beauty of sloppy joes lies in their versatility. This dish can be easily adapted to suit various tastes and dietary preferences. From adding extra spices for a kick to swapping in ground turkey or plant-based meat for a lighter twist, the possibilities are endless. You can even experiment with different types of buns to find your perfect match.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual get-together with friends, ground beef sloppy joes are the perfect solution for a delicious meal. They come together in under 30 minutes, making them an ideal choice when time is of the essence. Plus, they require minimal cleanup, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your meal and less time in the kitchen.

These sloppy joes are also a hit at parties and gatherings. You can easily prepare a large batch to serve a crowd, and they pair wonderfully with a variety of sides like coleslaw, potato chips, or a fresh salad. This makes them a fantastic option for potlucks, game day, or family reunions.

Enhancing Your Sloppy Joe Experience

While the classic sloppy joe is delicious on its own, don’t hesitate to elevate your experience with your favorite toppings. From crispy pickles to creamy coleslaw, these additions can enhance the flavor profile and add a delightful crunch. Shredded cheese, jalapeños, or sliced avocados can also give your sandwich a unique twist, allowing you to customize each bite.

To round out your meal, consider serving your sloppy joes with a side of sweet potato fries or a hearty vegetable soup. This not only adds variety to your dinner but also ensures a well-balanced plate. With a little creativity, you can transform a simple dish into a gourmet experience.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your delicious sloppy joes:

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, diced
1/2 green bell pepper, diced
1 cup ketchup
2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tbsp brown sugar
1 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
4 hamburger buns
Pickles and shredded cheese for topping (optional)

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s cook!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your sloppy joes:

Cook the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with the diced onion and bell pepper until the meat is fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.

Add the Sauce Ingredients

Stir in the ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well and bring to a simmer.

Simmer the Mixture

Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Serve on Buns

Once the mixture is thickened, spoon it onto hamburger buns and top with pickles and cheese if desired. Serve hot.

Enjoy your homemade sloppy joes with your favorite sides!

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers of this delicious sloppy joe mixture, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat the mixture on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal.

For longer storage, you can freeze the sloppy joe mixture. Place it in a freezer-safe container and it will stay fresh for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as mentioned above. This makes for an easy weeknight dinner option when you’re short on time.

Pairing Suggestions

To complement the savory flavors of your sloppy joes, consider pairing them with a refreshing beverage. Iced tea, lemonade, or even a light beer can balance the richness of the dish. For those preferring non-alcoholic options, a sparkling water with a hint of lime adds a nice touch.

On the side, classic potato chips are a go-to choice, providing a satisfying crunch. Alternatively, a simple garden salad can brighten up your plate and offer a healthy counterbalance to the hearty sandwich. No matter how you choose to serve them, sloppy joes are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative and will work just as well in this recipe.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze sloppy joes?

Absolutely! You can freeze the cooked meat mixture for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

→ What can I serve with sloppy joes?

They pair well with fries, coleslaw, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.