Description

This Best Sloppy Joe recipe is the ultimate comfort food! Tender ground beef is simmered in a savory, tangy, and slightly sweet sauce, making it the perfect filling for soft hamburger buns. Easy to make and full of flavor, this classic Sloppy Joe will quickly become a family favorite.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter version)
1 small onion, diced
1 bell pepper, diced (optional)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup ketchup
1/4 cup tomato sauce
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
4-6 hamburger buns (for serving)

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Instructions

Cook the beef: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned (about 6-7 minutes). Drain any excess fat.
Add the veggies: Add the diced onion, bell pepper (if using), and garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables soften.
Make the sauce: Stir in the ketchup, tomato sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
Simmer: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and the flavors meld together.
Assemble: Spoon the Sloppy Joe mixture onto the bottom half of each hamburger bun. Top with the other half of the bun and serve hot.

Notes

For extra flavor, try adding a splash of hot sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.
If you prefer a sweeter Sloppy Joe, you can add a little more brown sugar or a splash of honey.
You can also make this ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
For a fun twist, serve it over rice or on a baked potato!