Sloppy Joes are a timeless comfort food that brings back memories of hearty, satisfying meals. This Old Fashioned Sloppy Joes recipe is simple to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for feeding a hungry crowd. With just a few ingredients and a little time, you can whip up a classic dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. This recipe serves six and can be ready in under 30 minutes.
1. Old Fashioned Sloppy Joes (Serves 6)
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1/2 yellow onion, chopped
- 1/2 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons yellow mustard
- 3/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon coarse ground black pepper
Instructions
Cook the Ground Beef: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the butter and let it melt. Once melted, add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into crumbles as it cooks. Drain any excess fat if needed.
Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
Make the Sauce: Stir in the yellow mustard, ketchup, and brown sugar. Mix everything together until the ingredients are well combined. Season with kosher salt and coarse ground black pepper.
Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 10 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Serve: Spoon the Sloppy Joe mixture onto hamburger buns or sandwich rolls. Serve immediately for best results, and pair with your favorite sides like coleslaw, potato chips, or a crisp salad.
2. Tips to Perfect Sloppy Joes Sauce
Balance the flavors: The combination of ketchup and mustard provides a tangy base, while the brown sugar adds sweetness. If you prefer a slightly less sweet version, reduce the brown sugar to 1 tablespoon.
Customize the texture: For a thicker sauce, let the mixture simmer for a longer period. Adding a small pinch of cornstarch mixed with water can also help thicken the sauce if needed.
Boost the flavor: Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a dash of smoked paprika for an extra layer of depth. These ingredients complement the classic recipe beautifully.
Keep it fresh: Freshly chopped onions, bell peppers, and garlic make a big difference in the flavor of the dish. Avoid pre-chopped ingredients for the best results.
3. How to Store & Reheat Leftovers
Leftovers are easy to store and reheat, making this recipe a great option for meal prep or busy weeknights.
Storage: Transfer any leftover Sloppy Joe mixture to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: For longer storage, place the mixture in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.
Reheating: To reheat, warm the mixture in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. You can also microwave it in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until it’s hot. Adding a small splash of water or broth can help restore the sauce’s consistency if it thickens too much during storage.
Enjoy this Old Fashioned Sloppy Joes recipe for a quick and satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights, casual gatherings, or simply indulging in a nostalgic comfort food classic. With just a few tips and tricks, you can create a dish that tastes just as good—if not better—the next day!
