Description
This Healthy Sloppy Joes recipe offers a nutritious twist on the classic comfort food by using lean ground beef, fresh vegetables, and a flavorful tomato-based sauce. Ready in just 26 minutes, it’s perfect for a quick and satisfying family meal served on gluten-free buns or baked sweet potatoes.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lb ground beef
- ½ medium yellow onion, minced
- ¼ cup finely chopped green bell pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt (plus more to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
Sauce Ingredients
- ¾ cup tomato sauce
- ¼ cup unsweetened Primal Kitchen ketchup
- ¼ cup water
- 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- ¾ teaspoon chili powder
- 1-2 teaspoons hot sauce (optional)
For Serving
- 4 gluten free buns or baked sweet potatoes
Instructions
- Brown the Meat: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spatula, for about 5 minutes until browned. Drain most of the fat, leaving about 1 tablespoon in the pan.
- Saute the Vegetables: Add the minced onion, chopped green bell pepper, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir and cook until the vegetables are soft, about 4 to 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in the Sauce: Pour in the tomato sauce, unsweetened ketchup, water, pure maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, chili powder, and hot sauce if using. Stir everything together until well combined.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low to simmer. Cover and cook for 10 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken to your desired consistency.
- Serve: Adjust seasoning with additional salt if needed. Serve the sloppy joe mixture on toasted gluten-free buns or over baked sweet potatoes for a wholesome meal.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, increase the amount of hot sauce according to your preference.
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- To make this recipe vegetarian, use plant-based meat alternatives and vegetable broth instead of water.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and re-heated on the stovetop or microwave.
- Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad to enhance nutritional value.
