These classic homemade sloppy joes are comfort food at its absolute best; saucy, savory, a little sweet, and wonderfully messy in the way only sloppy joes should be. The beef cooks down with onions, green peppers, garlic, and a rich tomato-based sauce that’s perfectly balanced with brown sugar, chili powder, and just a touch of heat. The aroma while it simmers is unmistakable; warm, nostalgic, and guaranteed to bring everyone into the kitchen.
This is the recipe I turn to when I need to feed a hungry crowd or when my family asks for something familiar and filling. It’s hearty without being heavy, easy to adjust to taste, and even better the next day. My kids love it piled high on soft buns, and I love that it’s made from simple pantry staples.
If you’re craving a no-frills, crowd-pleasing dinner, this sloppy joe recipe never disappoints. Love this recipe? Pin it to your Easy Family Dinners board on Pinterest so you don’t lose it.
Classic Homemade Sloppy Joes
Course: DinnerCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy8
servings15
minutes25
minutes520
kcalA hearty, homemade sloppy joe made with ground beef, peppers, onions, and a rich, tangy sauce.
Ingredients
2½ lb ground beef
½ large onion, diced
1 large green bell pepper, diced
4 garlic cloves, minced
1½ cups ketchup
1 cup water
1½ tbsp brown sugar
3 tsp chili powder
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp ground mustard
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
2 tbsp tomato paste
Worcestershire sauce, to taste
Tabasco sauce (optional), to taste
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Kaiser rolls or hamburger buns, for serving
Directions
- In a large skillet over medium heat, about 165°C / 325°F, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain most of the fat and discard.
- Add the onion, green pepper, and garlic to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are soft and fragrant, about 5 to 7 minutes.
- Stir in the ketchup, water, brown sugar, chili powder, thyme, ground mustard, red pepper flakes, and salt and pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the tomato paste, a few shakes of Worcestershire sauce, and Tabasco if using.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Simmer a few minutes more until thick and saucy.
- Spoon the sloppy joe mixture onto buns and serve warm.
Cooking Notes
- Drain excess grease to keep the sauce from becoming heavy.
- Simmer longer for a thicker, richer consistency.
- This recipe doubles easily and freezes well.
Nutrition
Estimated Nutrition per Serving
- Calories: 520 kcal
- Fat: 28 g
- Carb: 32 g
- Protein: 34 g
Recipe Science
Sloppy joes rely on controlled reduction and sugar balance. Simmering allows excess moisture to evaporate, concentrating flavor while thickening the sauce naturally. Brown sugar tempers acidity from the ketchup and tomato paste, creating a rounded, balanced taste.
Blooming spices in the hot mixture releases fat-soluble flavor compounds, enhancing overall depth without additional seasoning. Worcestershire sauce adds umami through fermented ingredients, making the beef taste richer and more complex.
Sodium and added sugars are High (over 20% DV per serving). Using reduced-sodium ketchup and broth or serving smaller portions can help balance the meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Classic Comfort: Familiar, nostalgic flavor everyone loves.
- Easy to Customize: Sweeten or spice it to your taste.
- Great for Crowds: Feeds a hungry family with ease.
- Freezer-Friendly: Perfect for make-ahead meals.
FAQ
- Can I make this in advance?: Yes; it tastes even better the next day.
- Can I use ground turkey?: Absolutely; add a bit more seasoning for depth.
- What sides go well with sloppy joes?: Potato chips, coleslaw, or baked beans.
Conclusion
These sloppy joes are proof that simple, well-loved recipes never go out of style. Make them your own, don’t worry about the mess, and enjoy every bite. Happy cooking, and dig in. What’s your favorite side to serve with sloppy joes?
