Sloppy Joe Recipes
Sloppy Joes are a classic comfort food that brings back childhood memories for many people. This dish combines seasoned ground beef with a flavorful sauce, served on a soft bun. It’s a simple, hearty meal that can be made in various ways. Whether you enjoy the classic version or want to try a twist like a casserole, there’s a Sloppy Joe recipe for everyone!
Why Make This Recipe
Making Sloppy Joes is quick and easy, making them perfect for busy weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings. The ingredients are often items you already have at home, and they can be customized to fit your taste. Plus, they are fun to eat and loved by kids and adults alike!
How to Make Sloppy Joe
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 8 ounces tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon prepared mustard
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 tablespoons softened butter (for toasting buns)
- 4 to 6 hamburger buns
- 1 cup yellow onion, diced
- 24 ounces original Manwich sauce
- 15 ounces original Manwich sauce
- 12 ounces farfalle (bowtie noodles)
- 8 ounces Velveeta cheese, shredded
- 8 ounces Colby-jack cheese, shredded
- 13.5 ounces Five Cheese Texas Toast (8 slices)
- 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded (Sargento Creamery Mozzarella)
- 8 slices bread
- 8 slices mild cheddar cheese
Directions
For Classic Sloppy Joes: In a skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add 1/2 cup chopped onion and cook until softened. Then add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain the excess fat. Stir in tomato sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, vinegar, and seasonings. Simmer for 10 minutes. Toast buns in the remaining butter, fill them with the Sloppy Joe mixture, and serve.
For Sloppy Joe Casserole: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Brown ground beef and onions in a skillet. Drain excess fat. Stir in the Manwich sauce and cooked noodles. Transfer to a baking dish and top with cheeses. Bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly.
For Texas Toast Sloppy Joes: Prepare the Sloppy Joe mixture as in the Classic recipe. Toast Texas toast slices according to the package instructions. Top each slice with the Sloppy Joe mixture and shredded mozzarella. Serve warm.
For Grilled Cheese Sloppy Joes: Prepare the Sloppy Joe mixture as in the Classic recipe. In another skillet, butter bread slices and assemble with cheddar cheese and the Sloppy Joe mixture. Grill until golden brown on both sides and the cheese is melted. Serve warm.
How to Serve Sloppy Joe
Sloppy Joes are best served warm. You can enjoy them alone or with sides like fries, chips, or a salad. They also taste great with pickles or coleslaw on the side.
How to Store Sloppy Joe
Store any leftover Sloppy Joe mixture in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just reheat before serving.
Tips to Make Sloppy Joe
- For added flavor, consider adding chopped bell peppers or celery to the mixture.
- Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less brown sugar and ketchup.
- If you are a spice lover, a dash of hot sauce can enhance the flavor.
Variation
You can easily make vegetarian Sloppy Joes by using lentils or plant-based ground meat instead of beef. This version is just as tasty and perfect for meat-free meals.
FAQs
1. Can I make Sloppy Joes in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the meat mixture in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat before you serve it.
2. What kind of buns should I use?
Any soft hamburger bun works well. You can also use Texas toast or even bread for a different twist.
3. How can I make Sloppy Joes spicier?
You can add chopped jalapeños, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or your favorite hot sauce to the meat mixture to give it that extra kick.
