Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Best Sloppy Joe Recipe delivers the ultimate mix of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors packed into a soft hamburger bun. Made with ground beef and a bold homemade sauce, these messy sandwiches are quick, satisfying, and always a family favorite. They’re perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or anytime you’re craving a comforting classic.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

ground beefoniongreen bell peppergarlicketchuptomato pasteWorcestershire sauceyellow mustardbrown sugarchili powderpaprikasaltblack pepperolive oilburger bunsbutter (for toasting buns, optional)

directions

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add diced onions and green bell pepper. Sauté until soft, about 5 minutes.

Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Add ground beef and cook, breaking it up, until browned and cooked through. Drain excess grease if needed.

Stir in ketchup, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, yellow mustard, brown sugar, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Simmer the mixture for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened and saucy.

While the filling simmers, toast burger buns with butter in a skillet for extra flavor (optional).

Spoon the meat mixture onto the toasted buns and serve hot.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4–6 sandwiches.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 20 minutesTotal time: 30 minutes

Variations

Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version.

Add finely chopped jalapeños or hot sauce for a spicy twist.

Swap ketchup for BBQ sauce for a smokier flavor.

Top with shredded cheese, pickles, or coleslaw for extra texture.

Make it a casserole by layering the meat in a baking dish with buns and cheese, then bake until bubbly.

storage/reheating

Store leftover meat mixture in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.Reheat on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce.The meat can also be frozen for up to 2 months—thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make Sloppy Joes ahead of time?

Yes, the meat mixture can be made in advance and reheated when ready to serve.

What’s the best bread to use?

Soft hamburger buns or brioche buns are ideal—they soak up the sauce while staying tender.

Can I make this recipe spicy?

Absolutely—add hot sauce, cayenne pepper, or diced chilies to dial up the heat.

Do I need tomato paste and ketchup?

Yes, both add different layers of richness and sweetness to the sauce.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes, use lentils, mushrooms, or a meat substitute like Beyond Meat for a plant-based version.

Why is it called a Sloppy Joe?

The name comes from the “sloppy” nature of the saucy meat filling. It’s said to have originated in the U.S. in the early 20th century.

Can I serve this on something other than buns?

Yes, try it over baked potatoes, rice, or wrapped in lettuce leaves for a low-carb option.

What sides go well with Sloppy Joes?

Potato chips, coleslaw, baked beans, or fries pair perfectly.

Can kids eat this?

Definitely—it’s flavorful, not spicy, and fun to eat.

How do I keep the buns from getting soggy?

Toast the buns and serve the meat hot right before eating to help keep them from soaking through.

Conclusion

The Best Sloppy Joe Recipe takes a nostalgic favorite and gives it bold flavor with a homemade touch. Juicy, saucy, and bursting with tangy sweetness, it’s a crowd-pleasing meal that’s easy to make and impossible not to love. Whether you’re feeding a family or hosting casual guests, this classic sandwich always hits the spot.