The Best Homemade Sloppy Joes
Perfect for busy weeknights — these family-favorite sloppy joes come together in under 30 minutes! The rich, tangy sauce has a silky texture and a bold, zesty kick.
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Servings: 6
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Ingredients
- 1 Tbsp butter
- 1 tsp olive oil
- 1 lb ground beef
- ⅓ green bell pepper, minced
- ½ large yellow onion, minced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 Tbsp tomato paste
- ⅔ cup ketchup
- ⅓ cup water
- 1 Tbsp brown sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp yellow mustard
- ¾ tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp Worcestershire sauce
- ½ tsp kosher salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Dash of hot sauce (optional)
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Brown the Beef:
Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook for about 5 minutes, breaking it up as it browns. Drain excess fat and set aside. -
Sauté Veggies:
In the same skillet, add onion and bell pepper. Cook 2–3 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant. -
Combine:
Return beef to the skillet. Stir in tomato paste until evenly mixed. -
Add the Sauce:
Mix in ketchup, water, brown sugar, mustard, chili powder, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and optional spices. Stir well to combine. -
Simmer:
Reduce heat to medium. Cook 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens to your liking. -
Serve:
Spoon over toasted buns and enjoy immediately.
- Freeze for Later: Let the meat mixture cool completely, then store in airtight freezer containers for up to 4 months.
- To Reheat: Thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm on the stove or in the microwave before serving.