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Sloppy Joes

A classic American comfort food that's easy to make and customizable with various ingredients and spices.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 pound Ground beef (80/20) You can use leaner beef or ground turkey.
  • 1 medium Onion Adds sweetness.
  • 1 medium Green bell pepper Optional, adds flavor.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Minced for flavor.
  • 1 cup Tomato sauce or ketchup Choose based on how classic you want it.
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce Adds umami.
  • 1 tablespoon Brown sugar Balances the acidity.
  • to taste Salt Essential for flavor.
  • to taste Pepper Essential for flavor.
  • 4 pieces Soft sandwich buns For serving.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Heat a skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add the ground beef and break it up with a spatula. Cook until browned.
  3. Add chopped onions and green pepper; cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
  4. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
  5. Drain excess fat.
  6. Add tomato sauce or ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
  7. Simmer for 10-15 minutes until the sauce thickens.
  8. Serve the mixture on soft sandwich buns.
Slow Cooker Option
  1. Brown the beef on the stovetop then transfer to a slow cooker.
  2. Add chopped onion, green pepper, garlic, tomato sauce or ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, salt, and pepper.
  3. Stir well and cook on low for about 4 hours.
  4. Serve on buns and top with cheddar if desired.

Notes

For added flavor, serve on garlic-buttered buns, top with cheddar or coleslaw, or use as a nacho topping. Leftovers can be frozen and reheated.