Description
This Turkey Sloppy Joes recipe is a quick and flavorful twist on the classic sandwich, featuring lean ground turkey cooked with a savory tomato-based sauce packed with bell peppers, onions, and spices. It’s a perfect family-friendly meal that comes together in just 30 minutes, ideal for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 pound ground turkey
- ⅓ cup green bell pepper, seeded and diced
- ½ cup yellow onion, diced
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
Sauce
- 8 ounces tomato sauce
- ¾ cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1½ tablespoons yellow mustard
- ¼ teaspoon chili powder
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
Serving
- Hamburger buns
Instructions
- Cook the Turkey: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground turkey. Cook for 6-8 minutes, breaking the meat up with a spatula until browned and no longer pink.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add the diced onions and green bell peppers to the skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and become fragrant.
- Drain Excess Grease: Remove any excess grease from the skillet to avoid a greasy sauce.
- Add Sauce Ingredients and Simmer: Stir in the tomato sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, yellow mustard, chili powder, Worcestershire sauce, black pepper, salt, onion powder, and paprika. Let the mixture simmer uncovered for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and flavors meld together.
- Serve: Spoon the turkey sloppy joe mixture onto hamburger buns and serve immediately while warm. Enjoy this classic comfort food with a healthier twist.
Notes
- For spicier flavor, increase chili powder or add a dash of hot sauce.
- Ground turkey breast can be used for a leaner option.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Serve with a side of coleslaw or crispy oven-baked fries for a full meal.
- To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free hamburger buns.