Description

These homemade Sloppy Joes are hearty, flavorful, and loaded with savory ground beef simmered in a rich tomato-based sauce. Served on toasted buns, they make a quick and comforting meal perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

15 oz can tomato sauce

1/4 cup ketchup

1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

1 1/2 teaspoons yellow mustard

2–3 teaspoons brown sugar

1 tablespoon extra light olive oil

1 lb lean ground beef (85%-90% lean)

1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1 small onion, finely chopped

1/2 small green bell pepper, seeded and finely diced

3 garlic cloves, minced

5 hamburger buns, toasted if desired

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Instructions

In a medium bowl, combine the tomato sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, and brown sugar. Set aside.
Heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and ground beef, cooking for about 5 minutes until browned and fully cooked while breaking it apart with a spatula.
Carefully remove any excess grease from the pan. Season the beef with salt and black pepper.
Add the chopped onion and diced green bell pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes until the vegetables soften.
Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Pour the prepared sauce into the skillet and bring the mixture to a light boil.
Reduce the heat to low and simmer uncovered for 10-15 minutes until thickened to your preferred consistency.
If the mixture becomes too thick, stir in a splash of water. For a thicker filling, simmer a few extra minutes uncovered.
Spoon the hot filling onto toasted hamburger buns and serve immediately.

Notes

Swap the green bell pepper for grated carrot for a sweeter flavor.

Add hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy version.

Top with melted cheddar cheese for extra richness.

Serve the filling over baked potatoes, fries, or rice instead of buns.

Add smoked paprika or barbecue sauce for a smoky flavor.

Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freeze the cooled filling for up to 3 months.

Reheat in a skillet with a splash of water if needed.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 sandwich
Calories: 430 kcal
Sugar: 10 g
Sodium: 760 mg
Fat: 18 g
Saturated Fat: 6 g
Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
Trans Fat: 0.5 g
Carbohydrates: 35 g
Fiber: 2 g
Protein: 27 g
Cholesterol: 75 mg