Description
A classic homemade Sloppy Joes recipe featuring ground beef simmered in a rich, tangy tomato-based sauce, seasoned with mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and a hint of sweetness. Perfectly toasted hamburger buns provide the ideal base for this hearty, flavorful sandwich, making it a comforting and satisfying meal for any day of the week.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 Tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lb. ground beef (85% lean)
- ½ yellow onion (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 8 oz. can tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon packed brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 teaspoons yellow mustard
- 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 teaspoons hot sauce (optional)
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
For Serving
- 4 Hamburger buns (toasted)
- Butter (for spreading on buns)
- Optional: cheese slices for topping
Instructions
- Heat Oil: Add the olive oil to a large nonstick skillet over high heat to prepare the pan for cooking the beef.
- Brown Beef on One Side: Add the ground beef to the hot skillet without breaking it apart. Allow a dark brown crust to form on the bottom of the meat, about 4 minutes, to develop a hamburger-like texture.
- Brown Beef on Other Side: Flip the beef to develop a crust on the reverse side, ensuring even browning.
- Reduce Heat: Once the beef is browned on both sides, lower the heat to medium-high to continue cooking without burning.
- Add Onions and Break Apart Beef: Add the diced onions to the skillet, then break the beef apart with a spatula. Cook until the beef is fully cooked through. Drain excess grease if necessary to keep the mixture from being too greasy.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add Sauce Ingredients: Incorporate tomato sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, yellow mustard, apple cider vinegar, hot sauce (if using), kosher salt, and pepper. Stir well and cook until the sauce is heated through and slightly thickened. Avoid letting the sauce reduce too much to maintain perfect consistency, especially if reheating leftovers.
- Toast Buns: Spread butter over the top and bottom of the hamburger buns and toast them on a griddle or large skillet until golden. This adds flavor, texture, and prevents sogginess.
- Serve: Spoon the sloppy joe mixture onto the toasted buns. Optionally, top with cheese slices. Serve with potato wedges or your favorite side.
Notes
- For a spicier version, increase the amount of hot sauce or add finely chopped jalapeños.
- To keep this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free hamburger buns.
- The sauce consistency can be adjusted by simmering longer to thicken or adding a splash of water to loosen if too thick.
- Leftovers store well in the fridge for 3-4 days and can be reheated on the stovetop or microwave.
- Feel free to substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Sloppy Joes, Ground beef recipe, Easy dinner, Classic American sandwich, Homemade sloppy joe sauce
