Classic Sloppy Joe Sandwiches
A sweet-and-tangy ground beef filling piled inside hamburger buns, this sloppy joes recipe is made with pantry ingredients. A nostalgic family favorite!
- Prep5 min
- Cook25 min
- Total30 min
- DifficultyEasy
- Servings6
This is the kind of dinner that brings everyone to the table with a smile. It's messy, it's saucy, and it's absolutely delicious. The filling comes together quickly with simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry.
The key is to let the sauce simmer until it thickens into a rich, glossy coating for the beef. Serve it on toasted buns with a slice of melty cheese, and you've got a weeknight win that feels like a treat.
Ingredients
Servings
Converted amounts are rounded.
Method
- In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium. Add the onion and pepper. Cook, stirring every few minutes, for 5 minutes. Add the sweet potato and cook until it softens and cooks down, about 3 minutes more.
- Add the beef, chili powder, salt, garlic powder, and mustard. Cook, breaking apart the beef, until it is browned and fully cooked through and the veggies have completely softened, about 6 to 8 minutes.
- Add the tomato paste and cook, stirring constantly, for 1 full minute.
- In a large liquid measuring cup with a spout or a bowl, whisk together the ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, vinegar, and water.
- Pour the mixture over the beef. Let simmer, stirring occasionally, until it's thickened to your liking, about 5 minutes.
- To serve, spoon the mixture over the bottom buns. Add a slice of cheese (if desired) followed by the top bun. Enjoy immediately.
💡 Tips
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper along with the chili powder.
- Toast the buns lightly before assembling for extra texture.
- Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat gently on the stove.
Inspired by a recipe from Well Plated