Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Slow Cooker Mississippi Sloppy Joes are a bold, tangy twist on the classic sandwich—featuring tender shredded beef simmered with zesty pepperoncini peppers, ranch seasoning, and savory au jus mix. Piled high on toasted buns, these sloppy joes are juicy, flavorful, and perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or casual gathering.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

beef chuck roast (or stew meat)
ranch seasoning mix
au jus gravy mix
butter
pepperoncini peppers (plus a bit of juice)
yellow onion (optional, sliced)
garlic (minced)
hamburger buns or sandwich rolls
optional toppings: provolone cheese, pickles, coleslaw

directions

Place the chuck roast in the bottom of the slow cooker.

Sprinkle the ranch seasoning and au jus mix evenly over the meat.

Add butter, pepperoncini peppers, garlic, and a splash (2–3 tablespoons) of pepperoncini juice. Add sliced onions if using.

Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4–5 hours, until the meat is fork-tender.

Shred the beef directly in the slow cooker and mix well with the juices.

Toast buns if desired, then spoon the sloppy joe mixture onto the bottom half of each bun.

Top with cheese, pickles, or slaw if desired. Serve hot.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 6–8 sandwiches.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 8 hours (low) or 4–5 hours (high)
Total time: 8–9 hours

Variations

Use ground beef instead of chuck roast for a quicker version.
Make it spicy with hot pepperoncini or red pepper flakes.
Add shredded cheddar or provolone to make it cheesy.
Serve on Hawaiian rolls for a sweet-and-savory twist.
Top with crispy fried onions for extra texture.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave until hot.
Freeze for up to 2 months—thaw overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes, brisket or round roast also work well.

Is this recipe very spicy?
It’s mildly zesty—use fewer pepperoncinis or omit the juice for a milder version.

Can I make this with chicken or pork?
Absolutely—chicken thighs or pork shoulder are great alternatives.

Do I need to sear the meat first?
Not necessary, but it adds a bit of extra flavor if you have time.

Can I prep this ahead of time?
Yes, add everything to the slow cooker insert and refrigerate overnight. Start cooking in the morning.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Mississippi Sloppy Joes are a crave-worthy upgrade to your sandwich lineup—tangy, savory, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, this slow cooker recipe is a foolproof way to feed a crowd or satisfy the family with something a little different and totally delicious.