Homemade Sloppy Joes

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• A nostalgic favorite with a homemade upgrade.
• Sweet, tangy, and savory flavors that everyone enjoys.
• Easy to customize with spice levels and seasoning.
• Makes enough to feed a crowd.
• Pairs perfectly with chips or fries for a complete meal.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 tablespoons butter, plus more for buttering rolls
2 ½ pounds ground beef
½ large onion, diced
1 large green bell pepper, diced
5 garlic cloves, minced
1 ½ cups ketchup
2 tablespoons brown sugar
2 teaspoons chili powder, plus more to taste
1 teaspoon dry mustard
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes, plus more to taste
1 cup water
Kosher salt, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons tomato paste (optional)
Worcestershire sauce, to taste
Tabasco sauce, to taste (optional)
8 Kaiser rolls
Kettle cooked potato chips, for serving

Directions

1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and melt the butter.
2. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, about 7–8 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
3. Stir in the onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Mix in ketchup, brown sugar, chili powder, dry mustard, red pepper flakes, and water. Stir well to combine.
5. Add tomato paste (if using), Worcestershire sauce, and Tabasco (if desired). Simmer on low heat for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.
6. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Adjust spices to your preference.
7. Lightly butter and toast the Kaiser rolls.
8. Spoon the beef mixture onto the rolls and serve with kettle cooked potato chips.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 8 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 35 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a leaner option.
• Add shredded carrots or zucchini for a veggie boost.
• Swap Kaiser rolls for brioche buns or whole wheat rolls.
• For a smoky flavor, add a dash of smoked paprika.
• Top with shredded cheese or pickles for extra flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover Sloppy Joe mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water if the sauce is too thick. It can also be reheated in the microwave. The mixture can be frozen for up to 3 months thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make Sloppy Joes ahead of time?

Yes, the beef mixture can be made in advance and stored in the fridge. Reheat when ready to serve.

What type of beef is best for Sloppy Joes?

An 80/20 blend works best since it has enough fat for flavor but won’t be overly greasy.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, swap ground beef for plant-based crumbles or cooked lentils.

How do I thicken the sauce if it’s too runny?

Simmer longer, or add a bit more tomato paste to thicken the mixture.

Can I make this spicier?

Yes, increase the red pepper flakes, chili powder, or Tabasco sauce.

What side dishes go well with Sloppy Joes?

Potato chips, coleslaw, fries, or a simple salad all pair nicely.

Can I freeze the beef mixture?

Yes, it freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.

Do I have to toast the rolls?

Toasting is optional, but it helps prevent the bread from getting soggy.

Can I use a different type of roll?

Absolutely  hamburger buns, brioche, or pretzel buns all work well.

How do I keep the sandwiches from falling apart?

Use sturdy rolls, don’t overfill them, and toast the bread to give it structure.

Conclusion

Homemade Sloppy Joes are a fun, flavorful meal that brings a taste of nostalgia to the table. With their rich, tangy sauce and hearty beef filling, they’re sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re serving them at a weeknight dinner or a casual get-together, this recipe guarantees satisfaction in every bite.

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