Description
This Easy Classic Sloppy Joes recipe features seasoned ground beef cooked with diced onion, green bell pepper, and a rich, flavorful tomato-based sauce. Served on soft hamburger buns with melted cheddar cheese, it’s a comforting and saucy sandwich perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, diced (or ½ of a large onion)
- 1 large green bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound lean ground beef (90% lean works well)
Sauce
- 15 oz can tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
To Serve
- 4 slices cheddar cheese
- 4 hamburger buns
Instructions
- Sauté the vegetables and beef: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the ground beef, diced onion, diced bell pepper, and minced garlic. Cook, breaking up the beef with a spoon, until the beef is browned and the vegetables have softened, about 8-10 minutes. Drain any excess grease if necessary.
- Add the sauce ingredients: Stir in the tomato sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, cider vinegar, chili powder, salt, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Mix well, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan to incorporate all flavors.
- Simmer the mixture: Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, for about 15 minutes until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency. If it’s too thick, add a splash of water to loosen it; if too thin, simmer a bit longer. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Prepare the buns and serve: Optionally toast the hamburger buns. Place a slice of cheddar cheese on the bottom half of each bun, then spoon the sloppy joe mixture evenly over the cheese. Top with the bun lids and serve warm.
Notes
- Customize the spice level by adding red pepper flakes or hot sauce for heat.
- Reduce chili powder for a milder flavor if preferred.
- Drain excess grease after browning the beef for a less fatty meal.
- Toasting buns enhances texture and flavor but is optional.
