Ground Beef Sloppy Joes

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Ground beef sloppy joes are a classic, hearty dish that's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. With a savory sauce and tender beef, these sandwiches are sure to please everyone at the table.

Chantel Rivers

Created by

Chantel Rivers

Last updated on 2025-12-24T18:36:37.982Z

Sloppy joes have been a family favorite for generations. This version uses ground beef simmered in a delicious sauce, served on soft buns for a meal that's both comforting and satisfying.

Why You'll Love These Sloppy Joes

  • Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights
  • Savory and tangy sauce that enhances the beef flavor
  • Customizable with your favorite toppings

A Comfort Food Classic

Ground beef sloppy joes have been a beloved staple in many households for generations. With their robust flavor and satisfying texture, these sandwiches deliver a comforting meal that warms the soul. Each bite features a delightful blend of savory beef and tangy sauce, making them irresistible to both kids and adults alike.

The beauty of sloppy joes lies not only in their taste but also in their versatility. You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your preferences, whether you want to make them spicier, sweeter, or even add some veggies for extra nutrition. This adaptability ensures that everyone can enjoy a version of the classic that they love.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you're hosting a casual family dinner, a game day gathering, or a backyard barbecue, sloppy joes are a fantastic choice. Their ease of preparation means you can whip them up in no time, allowing you to spend more time with your guests and less time in the kitchen. Plus, they're a hit with all ages, making them a true crowd-pleaser.

Sloppy joes also make for great leftovers, as the flavors tend to deepen and improve after sitting for a day. You can easily make a double batch to ensure you have plenty to go around, perfect for meal prep or an impromptu lunch the next day.

Customizable Toppings

One of the best aspects of sloppy joes is the opportunity for customization. While the classic recipe is delicious on its own, you can elevate your sandwiches with a variety of toppings. Consider adding sliced jalapeños for a kick, shredded cheese for extra creaminess, or even pickles for a crunchy contrast.

Don’t forget about the sides! Pair your sloppy joes with classic potato chips, a crisp salad, or some homemade coleslaw to round out the meal. The combination of flavors and textures will keep your taste buds satisfied and your family asking for more.

Ingredients

For the Sloppy Joes

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1/2 cup onion, diced
  • 1/2 cup green bell pepper, diced
  • 1 cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon mustard
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 4 hamburger buns

Feel free to add your favorite toppings such as pickles or cheese!

Instructions

Cook the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.

Add Vegetables

Add the diced onion and bell pepper to the skillet. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.

Make the Sauce

Stir in the ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, mustard, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Serve

Spoon the beef mixture onto the hamburger buns and serve warm.

Enjoy your delicious sloppy joes!

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have any leftovers, storing them properly is key to maintaining their deliciousness. Place the beef mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it can last for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing the mixture in a freezer-safe container for up to three months.

When you're ready to enjoy your leftovers, simply reheat the beef mixture in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. You can also microwave it for a quick option, but be sure to stir occasionally to ensure even heating.

Serving Suggestions

While traditional hamburger buns are a great option for sloppy joes, feel free to get creative with your serving choices. Consider using brioche buns for a richer flavor, or even lettuce wraps for a low-carb alternative. You could also serve the mixture over rice or in a baked potato for a unique twist on this classic dish.

For an added touch, serve your sloppy joes with a side of homemade fries or onion rings. This combination not only satisfies your hunger but also adds a fun and festive feel to your meal.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey works well as a leaner alternative.

→ How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Substitute ground beef with lentils or a plant-based meat alternative.

→ Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make the sauce a day in advance and store it in the fridge.

→ What sides go well with sloppy joes?

Potato chips, coleslaw, or a simple green salad are great choices.

Ground Beef Sloppy Joes

Ground beef sloppy joes are a classic, hearty dish that's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. With a savory sauce and tender beef, these sandwiches are sure to please everyone at the table.

Prep Time10 minutes
Cooking Duration20 minutes
Overall Time30 minutes

Created by: Chantel Rivers

Recipe Type: Comfort Food

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

For the Sloppy Joes

  1. 1 lb ground beef
  2. 1/2 cup onion, diced
  3. 1/2 cup green bell pepper, diced
  4. 1 cup ketchup
  5. 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  6. 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  7. 1 teaspoon mustard
  8. Salt and pepper to taste
  9. 4 hamburger buns

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.

Step 02

Add the diced onion and bell pepper to the skillet. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.

Step 03

Stir in the ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, mustard, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 04

Spoon the beef mixture onto the hamburger buns and serve warm.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Total Fat: 24g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 34g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 10g
  • Protein: 24g