Name: Best Ever Sloppy Joes Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef, 93% or 80% lean; 1/2 yellow onion, diced (about 1/2 cup); 1/2 red bell pepper, diced (about 1/2 cup); 1/2 green bell pepper, diced (about 1/2 cup); 4 garlic cloves, minced; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1/4 cup red wine or red wine vinegar; 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce; 3/4 cup ketchup; 1/2 teaspoon coarse salt; 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper; 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil; Fresh chopped parsley for garnish

Jump to Recipe

If you’ve been searching for a hearty, comforting meal that bursts with flavor, you absolutely have to try the Best Ever Sloppy Joes. This dish takes the classic sloppy joe to new heights with a perfect balance of savory ground beef, vibrant bell peppers, and a tangy, rich sauce that clings to every bite. Whether you’re feeding a family or craving a nostalgic sandwich with an exciting twist, these sloppy joes satisfy like no other.

Best Ever Sloppy Joes Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These simple, straightforward ingredients come together beautifully to create layers of texture, flavor, and color in the Best Ever Sloppy Joes. Each element plays an essential role—ground beef for that hearty base, fresh vegetables for sweetness and crunch, and a blend of sauces for a tangy, savory finish.

Ground beef: Use 93% or 80% lean for the perfect balance of flavor and juiciness without too much grease.
Yellow onion: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth when sautéed.
Red and green bell peppers: These provide color, crunch, and a mild sweetness that brightens the dish.
Garlic cloves: Freshly minced for an aromatic punch that fills the kitchen.
Tomato paste: Gives the sauce its rich, concentrated tomato flavor and helps thicken it up.
Red wine or red wine vinegar: Adds complexity and acidity to balance the richness.
Worcestershire sauce: Enhances umami for that savory edge.
Ketchup: A classic ingredient providing sweetness and a familiar comfort note.
Coarse salt and ground black pepper: Basic but vital seasoning to tie everything together.
Extra virgin olive oil: For cooking the beef and vegetables with a subtle fruitiness.
Fresh chopped parsley: Optional, but perfect to garnish with a pop of green and fresh flavor.

How to Make Best Ever Sloppy Joes

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Adding salt and pepper to the ground beef before cooking helps season it deeply. Brown the meat thoroughly, breaking it up as you go, for about 5 minutes until it’s beautifully caramelized and cooked through. Drain any excess grease to keep the dish from becoming too heavy.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Add diced onion and bell peppers to the skillet with the browned beef. Cooking them for 3 to 4 minutes softens the vegetables without losing their vibrant colors or slight crunch, bringing sweetness and balance to the savory meat base.

Step 3: Add Garlic

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about a minute. This short cooking time ensures the garlic becomes fragrant and flavorful without burning or turning bitter.

Step 4: Incorporate the Tomato Paste

Mix the tomato paste in and cook until it deepens to a dark reddish brown. This step intensifies the tomato flavor and starts to build a thicker sauce that beautifully coats the meat and vegetables.

Step 5: Deglaze with Red Wine or Vinegar

Pour in the red wine or red wine vinegar, scraping up those flavorful browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. This technique adds depth and complexity to your sauce, making every bite rich and satisfying.

Step 6: Add the Worcestershire Sauce and Ketchup

Stir in Worcestershire sauce and ketchup, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Simmer the mixture for 5 to 10 minutes to let the flavors meld and the sauce thicken to the perfect sloppy consistency.

Step 7: Season and Serve

Adjust salt and pepper to your taste right before serving. Spoon the mixture generously onto your favorite buns or bread, garnish with fresh parsley if you like, and dive into the ultimate Best Ever Sloppy Joes experience.

How to Serve Best Ever Sloppy Joes

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley not only adds a burst of color but also a fresh herbal note that brightens each bite, balancing the richness of the meat sauce perfectly.

Side Dishes

If you want to round out your meal, classic sides like crisp potato chips, creamy coleslaw, or even seasoned sweet potato fries complement the Best Ever Sloppy Joes wonderfully by adding contrasting textures and flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Try scooping the sloppy joe mixture over a baked potato for a fun twist or stuff it inside roasted bell peppers for a low-carb option that’s just as hearty and satisfying. Open-faced on toasted rye or accompanied by pickled jalapeños can also add exciting new layers of flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer the leftover sloppy joe mixture to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well for 3 to 4 days, making it an excellent option for quick meals later in the week.

Freezing

This recipe freezes beautifully. Portion the cooled mixture into freezer-safe containers or bags, label them with the date, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally to warm evenly. If needed, add a tablespoon or two of water to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave individual portions, stirring halfway through for an even heat.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be a leaner alternative, though the flavor will be milder. Adjust seasonings and cooking time accordingly to keep the mixture moist and flavorful.

What type of bread works best for sloppy joes?

Soft, sturdy buns like brioche or classic hamburger buns are perfect for holding the saucy filling without falling apart. Toasting them lightly adds a nice texture contrast and helps keep everything intact.

Is there a way to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Swap the ground beef for lentils or finely chopped mushrooms for a meatless version that still delivers a satisfying, hearty texture and flavor.

Can I adjust the spice level?

Definitely. Though this recipe is mild, you can add chili powder, hot sauce, or diced jalapeños along with the peppers to bring some heat if you like your sloppy joes spicy.

Why do we deglaze the pan with wine or vinegar?

Deglazing loosens those caramelized bits at the bottom of the pan, which are packed with flavor. The acidity from wine or vinegar balances the richness and adds a subtle tang, deepening the overall taste of the sauce.

Final Thoughts

There’s something incredibly comforting about sinking your teeth into the Best Ever Sloppy Joes. This recipe is a true crowd-pleaser, combining timeless flavors with a touch of elegance that makes every bite thrilling. I encourage you to give it a try—you just might discover your new favorite go-to meal for any day of the week!

Best Ever Sloppy Joes Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 7 reviews

Author: Ethan
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Low Fat

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Description

This Best Ever Sloppy Joes recipe delivers a hearty, flavorful sandwich made with lean ground beef, a medley of fresh vegetables, and a rich tomato-based sauce with a tangy twist from red wine or vinegar. Perfect for a comforting family meal, this classic American dish is easy to prepare and sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Instructions

Brown the Meat: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add ground beef, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned, stirring frequently, about 5 minutes. Drain excess fat.
Sauté Vegetables: Add diced onion and bell peppers to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are somewhat softened.
Add Garlic: Stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Incorporate Tomato Paste: Add the tomato paste and stir to combine. Cook until the paste turns dark reddish brown, approximately 2 minutes, enhancing the depth of flavor.
Deglaze the Pan: Pour in red wine or red wine vinegar to deglaze the skillet, scraping up any browned bits stuck to the bottom to enrich the sauce.
Add Sauce Ingredients: Stir in Worcestershire sauce and ketchup. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5-10 minutes, allowing the mixture to thicken and flavors to meld.
Season and Serve: Remove from heat, adjust salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot on your favorite bread or buns, garnished with fresh chopped parsley for a vibrant finish.

Notes

For a leaner option, use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
Red wine vinegar provides a tangier flavor than red wine and can be substituted depending on preference or availability.
Drain excess fat well after browning to avoid a greasy sauce.
Serve on toasted buns for added texture and flavor.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Sandwich
Method: Sautéing and simmering
Cuisine: American