Homemade Sloppy Joes
A simple, delicious, and nostalgic stovetop one-skillet sloppy joe recipe that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or feeding a crowd. This quick and flavorful meal is a family favorite, loved even by picky eaters!
Table of Contents
Chef’s Tips
- Customize the Consistency: Adjust the water and ketchup amounts to control the thickness of the sauce. Use more ketchup for a thicker sauce or add more water for a thinner consistency.
- Don’t Skip the Simmer: Simmering the sauce for at least 5 minutes allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. For even deeper flavor, let it simmer for a few extra minutes.
- Prep in Advance: Double or triple the recipe for easy lunches throughout the week. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef – Provides a hearty, flavorful base. Substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes – Adds a subtle tang and texture. Use only half the can for this recipe; freeze the rest for later use.
- 1/4–1/2 cup water – Helps adjust the sauce’s thickness to your liking.
- 1/2 cup ketchup – Brings the classic sweet and tangy flavor. Add more for a thicker, richer sauce.
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard – Adds a slight tang and depth to the sauce.
- 1/2 tsp minced garlic – Enhances the savory flavor profile.
- 1/2 tsp Worcestershire sauce – Adds umami and richness to the dish.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning the meat and sauce.
Substitutions
- Protein Options: Replace ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat for a vegetarian version.
- Bread Options: Serve on hamburger buns, sandwich rolls, or even sliced bread for versatility.
Instructions
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Brown the beef, breaking it into crumbles with a wooden spatula, until fully cooked. Drain any excess grease.
- Add the diced tomatoes, water, ketchup, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and additional salt and pepper to the skillet.
- Stir well to combine, then bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and flavors meld together.
- Serve hot on hamburger buns and enjoy!
FAQs
Yes, sloppy joe filling can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce.
Absolutely! Let the filling cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Classic options like French fries, tater tots, or coleslaw are perfect. For a healthier twist, serve with roasted vegetables like honey-roasted carrots or baked green beans.
Use gluten-free buns or serve the filling over a baked potato, rice, or gluten-free pasta. Ensure that the Worcestershire sauce you use is gluten-free.
This homemade sloppy joe recipe is a timeless classic that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights, casual gatherings, or nostalgic comfort food cravings!
Homemade Sloppy Joes
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes use only half of the can
- 1/4 – 1/2 c water
- 1/2 c ketchup use more ketchup for a thicker sauce
- 1 tsp dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp minced garlic
- 1/2 tsp worcestershire sauce
- salt and pepper to tasta
Instructions
- Add the ground beef to a large skillet, and sprinkle with a little bit of salt and pepper.
- Brown the meat over medium heat, breaking it up with a wooden spatula, until fully cooked. Drain grease.
- Add all of the other ingredients to the skillet, and stir well to mix.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Serve on hamburger buns.
Nutrition
Nutrition values are estimates, for exact values consult a nutritionist.
