Sloppy joes are one of those meals that just make sense—simple, messy in the best way, and satisfying in a way that fancier dishes sometimes aren’t. The combination of seasoned ground beef in a tangy, slightly sweet sauce piled onto a soft bun hits the spot every time.
My family requests these regularly, and they’re my go-to when I need dinner on the table fast. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual backyard gathering, sloppy joes always deliver.
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Table of contents
Easy Sloppy Joes
This recipe keeps things straightforward with ingredients you likely have in your pantry, and it comes together quickly enough for those hectic evenings when cooking feels like a chore. The hearty, saucy filling works on classic hamburger buns, but you can also get creative—try it on sliders, in wraps, or even over rice. Kids love them, adults appreciate the nostalgic flavor, and honestly, everyone seems to go back for seconds. It’s the kind of meal that works for everything from family dinners to feeding a crowd at a cookout
What You’ll Need
- Ground beef
- BBQ rub
- Ketchup
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Diced brown onion
- Diced green pepper
- Minced garlic
- Tomato paste
- Worcestershire sauce
- Smoked paprika
- Mustard powder
- Salt
How to Make Sloppy Joes
Step 1: Make The Sauce
Combine the ketchup, Worcestershire, mustard powder, tomato paste, garlic powder, onion powder, and pepper, and then set aside. Some people add brown sugar, but I find it makes it a bit sweet. If you like it sweet, add 1-2 tablespoons to taste.
Step 2: Cook the vegetables
Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Fry the garlic, onions, and peppers for 2-3 minutes, then add the ground beef. Break up the meat and cook until browned and no pink remains if there is a lot of grease draining from the pan.
Step 3: Add The Sauce
Add the sauce to the browned meat and stir to combine. Then simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
Step 4: Serve
Serve on buns, wraps, rice, or tacos. We are keeping it classic and going for hamburger rolls with some fresh coleslaw on the side.
Variations for Sloppy Joes
The best part about sloppy joes is adding your own touch. Maybe your parents added to it when you were a kid, or if you’re trying to hide veggies from kids, this is the perfect place to hide them. I like to mince up mushrooms and add them to the mix. Here are some ways we like to add variety.
- Turkey Sloppy Joes: A leaner option with a lighter flavor.
- Vegetarian or Vegan Sloppy Joes: Use lentils or plant-based ground meat as a base.
- Buffalo: Add hot sauce and blue cheese crumbles for a spicy kick.
- Tex-Mex: Add chili powder, cumin, and black beans for a Tex-Mex flavor.
- Using a Slow Cooker: If you want to use a slow cooker, cook the meat in a skillet, then combine all the ingredients and meat and cook for 2-3 hours on high and 4-5 hours on low.
- Want a smoky flavor? If you want to add a smoky flavor, add smoked paprika in your sauc.e
How To Store Leftovers
You can refrigerate it in an airtight container for 3-4 days, freeze it for longer, or store the buns in the original packaging until the best-by date.
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What To Serve With Smoked Sloppy Joes
Sloppy joes go well with a variety of side dishes. Here are some of our favorites:
Sloppy Joes
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 5 whole buns
- 3/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tbsp BBQ rub
- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 whole diced brown onion
- 1 whole diced green pepper
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tbsp worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp mustard powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Combine the ketchup, Worcestershire, mustard powder, tomato paste, garlic powder, onion powder, and pepper, and then set aside. Some people add brown sugar, but I find it makes it a bit sweet, if you like to sweet add 1-4 tablespoons
- Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Fry the garlic, onions, and peppers for 2-3 minutes, then add the ground beef. Break up the beef and cook until browned and no pink remains. If there is a lot of grease drain from the pan.
- Add the sauce to the browned meat and give it a good stir to combine. Then simmer for 10-15 minutes until heated all the way through, stirring occasionally.
- Serve on buns, wraps, rice, or tacos. We are keeping it classic and going for hamburger rolls with some fresh coleslaw on the side.
Smoke On!
Charlie
Author: Charlie Reeves
Hi, I’m Charlie, I have been meat-smoking and grilling for the past 15 years. I have an array of different smokers, thermometers, and have a love for finding the right wood and charcoal combo My favourite recipes are my EXTRA CRISPY smoked pork belly, juicy pulled pork, smoked brisket, duck poppers, and ANY SEAFOOD I grill).
I loves sharing his tips with beginners, helping them navigate the world of smoking. I find it’s not just about cooking; it’s a quest for that perfect smoky flavor.
You will usually find me playing with the kids, perfecting my brisket bark, or sipping beers with boys around the fire. Can’t wait to share all my delicious smoking and grilling recipes with you!
You can read more about me on our About Us page.
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