Best Sloppy Joe

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Juicy, savory, and dripping with bold flavor, the Best Sloppy Joe is everything a comfort sandwich should be. This recipe takes the nostalgic childhood classic and kicks it up a notch with perfectly seasoned beef, a rich tomato base, and just the right amount of sweetness and spice. Every bite is a satisfying combination of saucy meat and a toasted bun that holds up like a champ.

Whether you’re planning a casual family dinner, a game night snack, or looking for something quick and hearty, this sloppy joe recipe delivers. The aroma alone will draw everyone to the table. And the best part? It’s fast, easy, and made with pantry staples.

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Why You’ll Love This Best Sloppy Joe

• It’s a one-pan wonder – easy to cook and even easier to clean up.
• Kid-approved and adult-adored, it brings everyone together.
• Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Customizable: make it spicy, cheesy, or sneak in some veggies.

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What Kind of Ground Beef Should I Use?

For the juiciest and most flavorful sloppy joe filling, go with 80/20 ground beef. That means 80% lean meat and 20% fat, which gives the mix a rich texture without being greasy. You can also substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option, but beef gives it that classic flavor.

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Ingredients for the Best Sloppy Joe

Each ingredient plays a key role in building that signature sloppy joe flavor and texture:

• Ground Beef: The heart of the recipe. Juicy and savory, it carries the flavor of the sauce perfectly.
• Green Bell Pepper: Adds a fresh crunch and slight bitterness to balance the sweet sauce.
• Onion: A classic base that provides sweetness and depth when sautéed.
• Garlic: Enhances the flavor profile with a warm, aromatic bite.
• Tomato Paste: Thickens the sauce and intensifies the tomato flavor.
• Ketchup: Brings sweetness and tang for that nostalgic sloppy joe taste.
• Worcestershire Sauce: Adds umami richness and a hint of complexity.
• Brown Sugar: Sweetens and balances the acidity of the tomato base.
• Yellow Mustard: Offers a zesty kick that keeps the sauce lively.
• Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings that bring it all together.
• Burger Buns: Soft, toasted buns that hold the sloppy filling without falling apart.

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How To Make the Best Sloppy Joe

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned and cooked through, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain any excess grease.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Add diced onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

Stir in tomato paste, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, and mustard. Mix well until the beef is fully coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Simmer and Thicken

Lower the heat and let the mixture simmer for 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken to your liking.

Step 5: Toast the Buns

While the beef simmers, lightly butter the burger buns and toast them on a skillet or in the oven until golden.

Step 6: Assemble and Serve

Spoon a generous amount of the sloppy joe mixture onto the bottom bun. Top with optional cheese or jalapeños if desired, then cover with the top bun.

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How to Serve and Store the Best Sloppy Joe

This recipe serves 4 to 6 people, depending on how generously you pile on the meat. It’s ideal for casual dinners, lunch meal prep, or feeding a hungry crowd at gatherings.

To store leftovers, let the meat mixture cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove or microwave. Always toast fresh buns when reheating for the best experience.

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What to Serve With Sloppy Joe?

Classic French Fries

You can never go wrong with crispy, golden fries as a sidekick to a saucy sandwich.

Coleslaw

The crisp, tangy crunch of coleslaw balances the richness of the sloppy joe perfectly.

Pickles or Pickle Chips

A few dill pickles or chips on the side (or tucked into the sandwich!) add a delicious briny snap.

Macaroni and Cheese

Creamy, cheesy, and comforting – the perfect indulgent partner to a sloppy joe.

Corn on the Cob

Especially in summer, sweet grilled or boiled corn is a fresh and simple addition.

Baked Beans

They echo the sweet-savory notes of the sandwich while adding a hearty touch.

Sweet Potato Fries

A slightly healthier alternative to regular fries with a hint of sweetness that complements the savory filling.

Garden Salad

If you’re aiming for a lighter plate, a crisp green salad makes a refreshing contrast.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make sloppy joes ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the meat mixture in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze it for 2 months. Reheat on the stove and toast fresh buns before serving.

2. What are the best buns to use?
Soft hamburger buns or brioche buns are best. They soak up the sauce without falling apart. Toasting them helps them stay sturdy.

3. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely. Just use gluten-free buns and check your condiments like ketchup and Worcestershire sauce to ensure they’re gluten-free.

4. How can I make it spicier?
Add some diced jalapeños, a dash of hot sauce, or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the beef mixture while it cooks.

5. Is there a vegetarian version?
Yes! Swap out the beef for lentils, plant-based crumbles, or finely chopped mushrooms for a delicious meatless version.

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Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you toast the buns or add cheese on top? Did you try it with sweet potato fries?
I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too, let’s help each other cook smarter.

Discover more family-style recipes and comfort food ideas over on my Life With Livia Pinterest.

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Conclusion

The Best Sloppy Joe isn’t just a sandwich – it’s a warm, saucy hug in a bun. With a quick prep time, bold flavors, and crowd-pleasing power, this recipe is destined to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen. Perfect for any season, it’s an effortless way to bring comfort to your table.

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