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Sloppy Joe Recipe

This classic Sloppy Joe recipe features a hearty, savory-sweet ground beef filling served on toasted buns for an easy, family-friendly meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes.
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Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound ground beef or ground turkey
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 1 small green bell pepper finely chopped (optional)
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • ¾ cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 tablespoon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 teaspoons brown sugar
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika optional
  • ½ cup water or beef broth
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 4 –6 hamburger buns toasted

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Spatula or wooden spoon
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Mixing bowl

Method
 

  1. Cook the Beef:
  2. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain any excess grease if needed.
  3. Add the Vegetables:
  4. Stir in the chopped onion, green bell pepper (if using), and garlic. Cook for 3–4 minutes, or until the vegetables soften.
  5. Make the Sauce:
  6. In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup, tomato paste, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, smoked paprika, and water or broth.
  7. Combine and Simmer:
  8. Pour the sauce into the skillet with the beef mixture. Stir to combine.
  9. Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
  10. Assemble the Sloppy Joes:
  11. Spoon the beef mixture onto the toasted buns. Serve warm and enjoy!