Description
A classic Sloppy Joe recipe featuring lean ground beef simmered in a flavorful sauce of tomato paste, chili powder, and spices, served on toasted hamburger buns and topped with sharp cheddar cheese. Perfect for a hearty and satisfying meal ready in just 40 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Vegetables
- 675 g (1 1/2 lb) lean ground beef
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 small red bell pepper, seeded and finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
Seasonings and Sauce
- 15 ml (1 tbsp) chili powder
- 5 ml (1 tsp) dry mustard
- 30 ml (2 tbsp) olive oil
- 60 ml (1/4 cup) tomato paste
- 250 ml (1 cup) chicken broth
- 125 ml (1/2 cup) chili sauce
- 30 ml (2 tbsp) white vinegar
- 30 ml (2 tbsp) brown sugar
- 15 ml (1 tbsp) Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Final Assembly
- 4 large hamburger buns
- 375 ml (1 1/2 cups) sharp yellow cheddar cheese, grated
Instructions
- Brown the meat and vegetables: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the lean ground beef, finely chopped onion, red bell pepper, chili powder, and dry mustard. Season with salt and pepper. Cook, stirring frequently, until the meat is browned and the vegetables are tender.
- Add tomato paste and garlic: Stir in the tomato paste and finely chopped garlic. Continue cooking for 1 minute, stirring constantly to blend the flavors and prevent burning.
- Simmer the sauce: Add the chicken broth, chili sauce, white vinegar, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let it simmer gently for about 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary.
- Toast the buns: While the meat mixture simmers, preheat a grill pan or skillet over medium heat. Split the hamburger buns and toast them until lightly browned and crisp.
- Assemble and serve: Spoon the sloppy joe meat mixture onto the toasted buns. Top each with a generous handful of grated sharp cheddar cheese. Serve immediately while hot and melty.
Notes
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the meat mixture.
- Use whole wheat buns for a healthier twist.
- Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for beef for a lighter option.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, allow the simmering mixture to cook uncovered for a few extra minutes.
