These Classic Sloppy Joe Sandwiches bring back all the nostalgic, homey vibes of a cozy weeknight dinner. Made with juicy ground beef, a sweet and tangy homemade sauce, and served on soft hamburger buns, this recipe is a quick 30-minute meal that never disappoints. It’s comforting, budget-friendly, and always a family favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how simple and satisfying these Sloppy Joes are. They only take about half an hour to whip up, using ingredients I usually already have on hand. Whether I’m cooking for a crowd or just need something hearty after a long day, this recipe always delivers. The mix of ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce creates a perfect balance of sweet and savory, and the soft buns soak it all up in the best way.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 lb ground beef
1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup green bell pepper, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp brown sugar
3/4 cup ketchup
1 tbsp yellow mustard
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
4 hamburger buns
Directions
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, I cook the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it’s no longer pink—about 5 to 6 minutes. I drain the excess fat if there’s any.
Then I stir in the chopped onion, green bell pepper, and garlic. I cook it for another 3 to 4 minutes until the veggies soften.
Next, I add the ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
I reduce the heat to low and let everything simmer for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens up nicely.
While that’s happening, I toast the hamburger buns if I want some extra texture.
Finally, I spoon the sloppy joe mixture onto the bottom halves of the buns, top them with the other half, and serve them warm.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 4 servings.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Calories per serving: 360 kcal
Variations
I sometimes swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
If I want a bit of spice, I add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
For extra texture, I mix in shredded carrots or diced celery.
I’ve also made these open-faced and topped them with shredded cheese, then broiled them for a cheesy twist.
For a gluten-free version, I just use gluten-free buns or serve the mixture over rice or potatoes.
Storage/Reheating
I store any leftover sloppy joe mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, I warm it on the stovetop over medium heat or microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between. If it thickens too much in the fridge, I add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up. I toast fresh buns when I’m ready to serve again.
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FAQs
How can I make this recipe ahead of time?
I cook the meat mixture and store it in the fridge. When I’m ready to serve, I reheat it and prepare the buns fresh. It’s great for meal prepping.
Can I freeze sloppy joe mixture?
Yes, I freeze the cooled mixture in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. I thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
What can I serve with Sloppy Joes?
I like to serve these with coleslaw, potato chips, roasted veggies, or a side salad. Even mac and cheese makes a fun side dish.
Are there vegetarian options for this recipe?
Absolutely. I substitute the ground beef with cooked lentils, plant-based ground meat, or finely chopped mushrooms for a meatless version.
Can I use tomato sauce instead of ketchup?
Yes, but I usually add a bit more brown sugar and vinegar to balance out the flavor since ketchup is naturally sweeter and tangier.
Conclusion
Classic Sloppy Joe Sandwiches are one of those simple, satisfying meals I keep coming back to. They’re easy to make, full of comforting flavor, and customizable to whatever I have in the kitchen. Whether it’s for a busy weeknight or a laid-back weekend meal, this recipe always hits the spot.
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Classic Sloppy Joe Sandwiches
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
These Classic Sloppy Joe Sandwiches are a comforting, nostalgic meal made with ground beef in a sweet and tangy sauce, served on soft hamburger buns. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a perfect weeknight dinner that’s quick, budget-friendly, and family-approved.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup green bell pepper, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
3/4 cup ketchup
1 tbsp brown sugar
1 tbsp yellow mustard
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
4 hamburger buns
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, until no longer pink, about 5 to 6 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Stir in the chopped onion, green bell pepper, and garlic. Cook for another 3 to 4 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
- Add the ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.
- Meanwhile, toast the hamburger buns if desired.
- Spoon the sloppy joe mixture onto the bottom halves of the buns, top with the other halves, and serve warm.
Notes
Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.
Add crushed red pepper flakes or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Mix in shredded carrots or diced celery for added texture.
Try an open-faced version topped with shredded cheese and broiled.
Use gluten-free buns or serve over rice/potatoes for a gluten-free option.
Store leftover mixture in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheat gently with a splash of water or broth if needed.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 640mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
