Sloppy Joe
Finally discover the secret to perfect sloppy joes that transforms basic ingredients into unforgettable comfort food your family will crave.
Total time
80 min
Servings
1
Calories
84.6
Category
Dinner & Mains
This classic Sloppy Joe recipe is a quick and easy one-dish meal perfect for beginner cooks. With a savory-sweet sauce and simple ingredients, it delivers hearty comfort food in under an hour and a half.
Ingredients
Makes 1 serving
- 1 green pepper
- 1/2 celery
- 1/2 ketchup
- 3/4 salt
- 1 onion
- 1 ground mustard
- 1 sugar
- 1 Worcestershire sauce
- 1 vinegar
Method
1. Brown meat. Add onion, mustard, worcestershire, sugar, vinegar, ketchup, salt, green pepper and celery.
2. Reduce heat to low; cook approximately 40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Cook's notes
- For best flavor, use a lean ground beef (85/15) to avoid excess grease.
- Finely dice the green pepper and celery so they blend smoothly into the sauce.
- Let the mixture simmer on low for at least 40 minutes to meld the flavors.
Easy swaps
- Instead of ground mustard, use 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard or dry mustard powder
- Instead of Worcestershire sauce, use soy sauce plus a dash of vinegar for a similar umami
- Instead of sugar, use brown sugar or honey for a deeper sweetness
Frequently asked
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, lean ground turkey works well. Add a tablespoon of olive oil to prevent dryness.
How do I thicken the sauce if it's too runny?
Simmer uncovered for an extra 10–15 minutes, or stir in 1 tablespoon of tomato paste.
What type of vinegar works best?
Apple cider vinegar or white vinegar both work; apple cider adds a mild fruitiness.
