There is something undeniably nostalgic about a Sloppy Joe. It is the quintessential comfort food—messy, saucy, and bursting with a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors. Whether you are looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing meal for a casual gathering, this ground beef classic never goes out of style.
The beauty of the Sloppy Joe lies in its simplicity. Piled high on a soft, toasted bun, the thick meat sauce provides a satisfying bite that appeals to both kids and adults alike. It is a meal designed to be enjoyed with plenty of napkins and a big smile.
Ingredients
To create this savory masterpiece, you will need the following pantry staples:
Ground Beef: The hearty base of the sandwich.
Aromatics: One chopped onion and an optional green bell pepper for added texture and flavor.
The Sauce Base: A combination of ketchup and tomato paste for a rich, tomatoey foundation.
Seasonings & Tang: Worcestershire sauce, mustard, salt, and black pepper.
Sweetness: Brown sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
Serving: Soft hamburger buns.
Easy Step-by-Step Instructions
Brown the Meat: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef along with the chopped onion (and green bell pepper, if using) until the meat is cooked through and the vegetables are softened. Drain any excess grease if necessary.
Create the Sauce: Stir in the ketchup, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, mustard, salt, and black pepper.
Simmer: Allow the mixture to simmer over medium-low heat. This helps the flavors meld together and the sauce to thicken until it is perfectly “gloppy” and saucy.
Assemble and Serve: Spoon the mixture generously onto toasted hamburger buns. Serve immediately while it’s hot and enjoy the messy goodness!
Pro Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, try lightly buttering your buns and toasting them in a pan before adding the meat. This prevents the bun from getting soggy too quickly!
