Description
Hearty Sloppy Joe sandwiches bring classic American comfort to dinner tables with robust ground beef and tangy sauce nestled between perfectly toasted buns. Quick weeknight meals never tasted so satisfying, promising delicious satisfaction you can easily create at home.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat:
- 1 pound (450 grams) ground beef (80% lean)
Vegetables:
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 small green bell pepper, finely chopped (optional)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
Sauce and Seasoning:
- ¾ cup ketchup
- ¼ cup tomato paste
- ¼ cup water
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon chili powder (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Serving:
- 4 hamburger buns, toasted
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, pickles, or coleslaw
Instructions
- Prepare the meat foundation by heating a spacious skillet over medium-high temperature, gently crumbling the ground beef with a wooden utensil while ensuring even breakdown.
- When the meat reaches a partial brown state, incorporate diced onions, chopped bell peppers, and minced garlic. Continue cooking until the beef transforms completely brown and vegetables become tender, approximately 5-7 minutes.
- Eliminate excess fatty liquid from the skillet to maintain a clean cooking surface.
- Reduce skillet temperature to medium and introduce a vibrant sauce mixture combining tangy ketchup, concentrated tomato paste, liquid component, Worcestershire essence, caramelized brown sugar, sharp mustard, acidic apple cider vinegar, smoky paprika, warming chili powder, and a delicate salt-pepper balance.
- Thoroughly integrate sauce elements, ensuring complete meat coating and uniform distribution of flavor profiles.
- Lower heat to minimal setting, allowing the mixture to gently simmer and concentrate flavors, stirring periodically for 10-15 minutes until sauce reaches a luxurious, thickened consistency.
- Taste and calibrate seasoning according to personal preference, adjusting spice and sweetness levels.
- Toast hamburger buns until golden and crisp around edges.
- Generously ladle the robust meat mixture onto prepared buns, creating a hearty sandwich experience.
- Embellish with optional garnishes like crisp pickles, sharp cheese, or fresh herbs if desired, then serve immediately for optimal temperature and texture.
Notes
- Drain excess fat thoroughly to prevent a greasy texture and ensure a cleaner, more appetizing Sloppy Joe.
- Choose lean ground beef with 85% or 90% lean meat for a healthier version without sacrificing flavor.
- Customize heat levels by adjusting chili powder or adding diced jalapeños for spice lovers who want an extra kick.
- Transform this classic into a low-carb meal by serving over cauliflower rice or using lettuce wraps instead of traditional buns.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 425
- Sugar: 10 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 22 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg