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Homemade Sloppy Joes

Homemade Sloppy Joes: Comfort Food Everyone Will Love

Enjoy these delicious Homemade Sloppy Joes for a comforting meal that brings everyone together.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 sandwiches
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Filling
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil For sautéing; try olive oil for a unique twist.
  • 1 pound lean ground beef (90/10) Substitute with ground turkey, chicken, or lentils for a lighter or plant-based option.
  • 1 small sweet onion, diced Adds sweetness and depth; shallots also work beautifully if you're in a pinch.
  • 1 small green bell pepper, diced Creates a delightful crunch; red or yellow bell peppers add a hint of sweetness.
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste Delivers a concentrated tomato flavor; ketchup is a substitute, but reduce the sugar to keep it balanced.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced Enhances the overall flavor; garlic powder can stand in if fresh isn’t available.
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika Gives a rich, smoky layer; regular paprika can be used, but you’ll lose some depth.
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder Introduces mild heat; adjust the amount based on your family's spice preference.
  • ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper Adds a kick; omit for a milder option.
  • 1.5 cups beef stock Imparts moisture and richness; vegetable stock is perfect for a vegetarian version.
  • 1 cup ketchup Provides sweetness and acidity; can be adjusted for less sweetness.
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard Adds tang; yellow mustard can be a handy replacement.
  • 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce Infuses umami flavor; soy sauce can serve as an alternative.
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar Balances flavors; adjust or omit based on sweetness preferences.
  • kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper Essential for flavor; season to taste.
Optional Toppings
  • toasted brioche or hamburger buns Perfect for holding all that delicious filling; swap for gluten-free options if needed.
  • fresh herbs (like parsley) Sprinkle on top for a refreshing touch.
  • pickles or jalapeños For an extra crunch and zing!

Equipment

  • large cast iron skillet

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. Heat the skillet by heating 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Add 1 pound of lean ground beef to the skillet and cook for about 3-5 minutes, breaking up the meat as it cooks.
  3. Sauté diced small sweet onion and diced small green bell pepper together for 3-4 minutes until tender and fragrant.
  4. Stir in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon of chili powder, and ⅛ teaspoon of cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  5. Pour in 1 ½ cups of beef stock and scrape the bottom of the skillet to loosen browned bits. Bring to a gentle boil.
  6. Reduce heat to medium-low and mix in 1 cup of ketchup, 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard, 2 teaspoons of Worcestershire sauce, and 1 tablespoon of brown sugar. Stir well.
  7. Cover and let the filling simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally until thickened.
  8. Serve the hearty mixture on toasted brioche or hamburger buns.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sandwichCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 22gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 5mgIron: 15mg

Notes

Choose fresh ingredients for the best flavor and feel free to adjust spices according to your taste. Toasted buns can enhance the experience, and making ahead can intensify flavors.

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