This Easy Ground Turkey Sloppy Joe recipe is a healthier twist on the classic dish, using lean ground turkey to reduce fat while maintaining that delicious sweet and tangy flavor. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s a quick and satisfying meal for the whole family. Packed with savory sauce and tender turkey, this lighter version of sloppy joes is perfect for a weeknight dinner. Plus, it’s versatile—serve it as a sandwich or over rice for a different take.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it offers a healthier alternative to traditional sloppy joes without sacrificing flavor. Using lean ground turkey instead of beef reduces the fat content, making it a lighter option, yet the combination of tomato sauce, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce creates the same sweet and tangy taste I crave. The added veggies like onion and bell pepper provide extra texture and nutrition. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner, ready in just 25 minutes. Plus, it’s versatile—serve it as a sandwich or on top of rice for a different take.
Ingredients
1 lb ground turkey
1 tablespoon olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 medium onion, chopped
1 red bell pepper, chopped
2 tablespoons ketchup
1 cup tomato sauce
1 tablespoon brown sugar
½ teaspoon chili powder
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste
4 hamburger buns
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and red bell pepper, cooking for about 5 minutes, until softened.
Add the minced garlic and ground turkey to the skillet. Cook the turkey, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 7-8 minutes.
Stir in the tomato sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Reduce the heat and let the sloppy joe filling simmer for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and the flavors meld together.
Toast the hamburger buns lightly in the oven or on a skillet if desired.
Spoon the turkey mixture onto the bottom half of each bun and top with fresh parsley if using. Place the other half of the bun on top and serve hot.
Servings and Timing
Servings: 4 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Variations
Make it spicy: Add a bit of hot sauce or extra chili powder to give your sloppy joes a spicy kick.
Swap the meat: If you prefer, you can use lean ground beef, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian option.
Add extra veggies: Try adding mushrooms, zucchini, or carrots to the mix for more texture and flavor.
Make it low-carb: Serve the sloppy joe filling in lettuce wraps instead of buns for a low-carb option.
Top it with cheese: Add a slice of melted cheddar or provolone on top of the turkey mixture for a cheesy twist.
Storage/Reheating
Storage: Store any leftover sloppy joe filling in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat the turkey mixture in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, adding a splash of water or broth if it’s too thick. You can also reheat in the microwave in 30-second intervals.
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FAQs
Can I use ground beef instead of turkey for sloppy joes?
Yes, ground beef can be used as a substitute for ground turkey. Just be sure to drain any excess fat after cooking the beef for a healthier version.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make this recipe vegetarian, you can use plant-based ground meat or even lentils as a filling. The sauce will still add plenty of flavor.
Can I freeze the sloppy joe mixture?
Yes, you can freeze the turkey mixture. Just let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat.
How can I make the sauce less sweet?
If you prefer a less sweet sauce, you can reduce the amount of brown sugar or ketchup and increase the mustard or Worcestershire sauce for more tang.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the sloppy joe filling ahead of time. Just store it in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze it for longer storage. Reheat before serving.
Conclusion
This Easy Ground Turkey Sloppy Joe recipe is a lighter, healthier alternative to the classic dish, offering the same delicious taste but with fewer calories. It’s simple to make, versatile, and perfect for a quick family meal. Whether you’re craving a comforting sandwich or looking to switch things up with a healthier twist, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
📖 Recipe:
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Easy Ground Turkey Sloppy Joes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
A healthier twist on the classic sloppy joe, this recipe uses lean ground turkey for a lighter, yet still delicious, sandwich filling. The savory, tangy sauce pairs perfectly with the tender turkey, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy a hearty, flavorful meal that the whole family will love.
Ingredients
1 lb ground turkey
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
1 red bell pepper, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup tomato sauce
2 tablespoons ketchup
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon mustard
½ teaspoon chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste
4 hamburger buns
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and red bell pepper, cooking for about 5 minutes until softened.
- Add the minced garlic and ground turkey to the skillet. Cook the turkey, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 7-8 minutes.
- Stir in the tomato sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Reduce the heat and let the mixture simmer for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and flavors meld.
- Toast the hamburger buns lightly in the oven or on a skillet, if desired.
- Spoon the turkey mixture onto the bottom half of each bun, topping with fresh parsley. Place the top bun on and serve immediately.
Notes
For extra heat, add hot sauce or more chili powder.
Swap out the ground turkey for lean beef or chicken, or try plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian version.
For a low-carb option, serve the sloppy joe filling in lettuce wraps instead of buns.
Add extra veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, or carrots for added texture and nutrition.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Sandwiches, Comfort Food
- Method: Stovetop, Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 300 kcal per serving
