Go Back

BEST SLOPPY JOE RECIPE

Sana Umer
This Best Sloppy Joe Recipe is rich, savory, and full of flavor. Juicy ground beef simmered in a tangy, slightly sweet sauce makes the perfect sandwich filling for an easy, family-friendly meal any night of the week.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine American
Servings 6 sandwiches
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon mustard
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 4 –6 hamburger buns
  • Optional: sliced pickles or cheese for topping

Instructions
 

Cook the Beef:

  • In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Add Vegetables:

  • Stir in chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 3–4 minutes.

Make the Sauce:

  • Add ketchup, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, mustard, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until thickened.

Assemble the Sandwiches:

  • Spoon the beef mixture onto hamburger buns. Top with cheese or pickles if desired.

Serve:

  • Serve warm with your favorite side, such as fries or coleslaw.

Notes

  • Make Ahead:
    Sloppy Joe mixture can be made in advance and reheated on the stove or in the microwave.
  • Flavor Variations:
    Add a splash of hot sauce for heat or swap brown sugar with honey for a different sweetness.
  • Serving Suggestions:
    Perfect for family dinners, casual gatherings, or a game day meal. Serve with chips or a side salad.
  • Storage Tips:
    Store leftover beef mixture in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave.
Keyword easy sloppy joes, family dinner, ground beef sandwich, homemade sloppy joes, messy sandwich, sloppy joe recipe, tangy sloppy joe