Description
This Best Damn Sloppy Joes recipe features a flavorful blend of ground beef and a tangy, sweet sauce simmered to perfection. It’s a classic American comfort food that’s perfect for an easy weeknight meal or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs. ground beef (85% lean)
- 1/2 medium onion, diced
- 1/2 sweet bell pepper, diced (red or green)
Sauce Ingredients
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup steak sauce (A1)
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp yellow mustard
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the sauce: In a bowl, combine ketchup, steak sauce, honey, Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, yellow mustard, tomato paste, and water. Whisk until well blended and set aside.
- Brown the beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add ground beef, diced onion, diced bell pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper (about ½ tsp each). Sauté until the beef is fully browned and vegetables are softened. Drain any excess fat.
- Simmer the mixture: Add the prepared sauce to the skillet and bring to a simmer over low-medium heat. Once simmering, reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 20 minutes, stirring every couple of minutes to prevent sticking.
- Thicken the sauce: Remove the lid and continue cooking uncovered for 5 more minutes until the sauce reaches your desired thickness.
- Serve: Spoon the sloppy joe mixture onto hamburger buns or your preferred bread and enjoy while hot.
Notes
- Use lean ground beef (85% lean) to reduce excess grease.
- Adjust sweetness and tanginess by modifying honey, brown sugar, or vinegar amounts to suit your taste.
- For a healthier option, substitute ground turkey or chicken.
- Serve with pickles, coleslaw, or chips for a complete meal.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 10 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg
