There’s something undeniably comforting about a sloppy Joe. This classic dish is an uncomplicated, satisfying food. Its rich, saucy, meaty goodness is a crowd-pleaser that never fails to satisfy any crowd.
I have found that both kids and adults absolutely love them. They evoke memories of childhood, backyard barbecues, and laid-back weeknight dinners. And let’s face it, who doesn’t love a meal that’s as delicious as it is easy to make?
This recipe is a true testament to the simplicity of great food. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a batch, and everyone will ask for seconds.
Why You’ll Love These
There’s a reason sloppy joes are a classic comfort food, and that’s why my family and I love them.
Super easy and quick: Have busy weeknights? No problem! This recipe is ready in a flash, or you can prep it and have it ready to eat in less than 5 minutes.
Extra satisfying and hearty: This is the perfect meal for any occasion, big or small, like a backyard cookout with all your neighbors or your family.
It has a nostalgic flavor: Adults will enjoy the delicious taste of nostalgia, and kids love anything in a bun.
So many possibilities: You can serve on buns, sliders, wraps, with tacos or over rice,
Crowd-pleaser: These sloppy joes are a hit with everyone, from family dinners to potlucks.
What You’ll Need
- Ground beef
- BBQ rub
- Ketchup
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Diced brown onion
- Diced green pepper
- Minced garlic
- Tomato paste
- Worcestershire sauce
- Smoked paprika
- Mustard powder
- Salt
How to Make Sloppy Joes
Step 1: Make The Sauce
Combine the ketchup, Worcestershire, mustard powder, tomato paste, garlic powder, onion powder, and pepper, and then set aside. Some people add brown sugar, but I find it makes it a bit sweet, if you like to sweet add 1-4 tablespoons
Step 2: Cook the vegetables
- Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Fry the garlic, onions, and peppers for 2-3 minutes, then add the ground beef. Break up the beef and cook until browned and no pink remains. If there is a lot of grease drain from the pan.
Step 3: Add The Sauce
Add the sauce to the browned meat and give it a good stir to combine. Then simmer for 10-15 minutes until heated all the way through, stirring occasionally.
Step 4: Serve
- Serve on buns, wraps, rice, or tacos. We are keeping it classic and going for hamburger rolls with some fresh coleslaw on the side.
Variations for Sloppy Joes
The best part about sloppy joes is adding your own touch. Maybe your parents added to it when you were a kid, or if you’re trying to hide veggies from kids, this is the perfect place to hide them. I like to mince up mushrooms and add them to the mix. Here are some of the ways we like to add some variety.
- Turkey Sloppy Joes: A leaner option with a lighter flavor.
- Vegetarian or Vegan Sloppy Joes: Use lentils or plant-based ground meat as a base.
- Buffalo: Add hot sauce and blue cheese crumbles for a spicy kick.
- Tex-Mex: Add chili powder, cumin, and black beans for a Tex-Mex flavor.
- Using a Slow Cooker: If you want to use a slow cooker, cook the meat in a skillet, then combine all the ingredients and meat and cook for 2-3 hours on high and 4-5 on high.
- Want a smoky flavor? If you want to add a smoky flavor add smoked paprika in your sauce
How To Store Leftovers
You can refrigerate it in an airtight container for 3-4 days, freeze it for longer, or store the buns in the original packaging until the best-by date.
What To Serve With Smoked Sloppy Joes
Sloppy joes go well with a variety of side dishes. Here are some of our favorites:
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Sloppy Joes
This Sloppy Joe recipe is a simple yet, tasty comfort food that will have kids and adults begging for seconds.
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 5 whole buns
- 3/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tbsp BBQ rub
- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 whole diced brown onion
- 1 whole diced green pepper
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tbsp worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp mustard powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
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Combine the ketchup, Worcestershire, mustard powder, tomato paste, garlic powder, onion powder, and pepper, and then set aside. Some people add brown sugar, but I find it makes it a bit sweet, if you like to sweet add 1-4 tablespoons
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Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Fry the garlic, onions, and peppers for 2-3 minutes, then add the ground beef. Break up the beef and cook until browned and no pink remains. If there is a lot of grease drain from the pan.
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Add the sauce to the browned meat and give it a good stir to combine. Then simmer for 10-15 minutes until heated all the way through, stirring occasionally.
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Serve on buns, wraps, rice, or tacos. We are keeping it classic and going for hamburger rolls with some fresh coleslaw on the side.
Smoke On!
Charlie
Author: Charlie Reeves
Hi, I’m Charlie, I have been meat-smoking and grilling for the past 15 years. I have an array of different smokers, thermometers, and have a love for finding the right wood and charcoal combo My favourite recipes are my EXTRA CRISPY smoked pork belly, juicy pulled pork, smoked brisket, duck poppers, and ANY SEAFOOD I grill).
I loves sharing his tips with beginners, helping them navigate the world of smoking. I find it’s not just about cooking; it’s a quest for that perfect smoky flavor.
You will usually find me playing with the kids, perfecting my brisket bark, or sipping beers with boys around the fire. Can’t wait to share all my delicious smoking and grilling recipes with you!
You can read more about me on our About Us page.
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