Name: Classic Sloppy Joes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 small onion diced; 2 cloves garlic minced; 1/2 cup ketchup; 2 tbsp tomato paste; 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 1 tbsp brown sugar; 1 tsp mustard; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 hamburger buns; 2 tbsp butter for toasting buns

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I first made these classic sloppy joes on a chilly Friday night when I needed something warm hearty and easy that everyone would dig into with a smile and I had ground beef in the fridge and soft buns ready on the counter so I got cooking and in no time my kitchen was filled with the sweet tangy aroma of the sauce simmering away and I couldn’t wait to dig in.

There’s just something about that savory meat mixture tucked inside a soft bun that feels like home and it’s nostalgic comforting and seriously satisfying plus it comes together in under 30 minutes making it the perfect choice when dinner needs to happen fast.

Ingredients

Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!
Ground beef – The savory base that gives the sandwich its rich flavor.
Onion – Adds sweetness and depth as it cooks with the beef.
Garlic – A must-have for added savory punch.
Ketchup – The main ingredient in the sweet tangy sauce.
Tomato paste – Intensifies the tomato flavor and thickens the sauce.
Worcestershire sauce – Brings out umami and balances sweetness.
Brown sugar – Adds a mellow sweetness that pairs perfectly with ketchup.
Mustard – A touch of tang that brightens the sauce.
Salt and pepper – Essential for seasoning the meat mixture.
Soft sandwich buns – Pillowy and perfect for holding that juicy filling.
Butter – To lightly toast the buns for an extra touch of flavor.

Tools You’ll Need

Large skillet – The one-pan solution for browning beef and simmering the sauce.
Spatula – Perfect for breaking up and stirring the beef as it cooks.
Knife and cutting board – For chopping the onion and garlic.
Measuring spoons – To get the sauce ingredients just right.
Small saucepan (optional) – If you want to toast the buns in butter separately.

Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Beef

I start by heating a skillet over medium heat and adding the ground beef and diced onion and I cook until the beef is browned and the onion is soft then I toss in the garlic and cook for about a minute until it smells amazing.

Step 2: Add Sauce Ingredients

Next I stir in the ketchup tomato paste Worcestershire sauce brown sugar mustard salt and pepper and I reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes so all the flavors can come together and thicken slightly.

Step 3: Toast the Buns

While the meat simmers I melt a little butter in another skillet and toast the sandwich buns cut side down until they’re golden and warm and this little extra step makes a big difference.

Step 4: Assemble and Serve

Once the meat mixture is thick and saucy I spoon it generously onto the toasted buns and serve them right away and they’re messy in the best way and always a hit.

Tips

You can make this with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter twist and I’ve even added finely chopped bell peppers for extra texture and sweetness. If you like heat a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes does the trick. These also freeze beautifully just keep the filling separate from the buns.

Ways to Serve

I love serving classic sloppy joes with potato chips coleslaw or pickles on the side and they’re great for weeknights casual gatherings or game day. You can also turn the filling into a fun nacho topping or stuff it in baked potatoes for something different.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make sloppy joes ahead of time?

Yes the filling stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days and just reheat before serving.

Can I freeze the meat mixture?

Absolutely freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the fridge.

What type of buns work best?

Soft hamburger buns are traditional but brioche or potato rolls are also delicious.

Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

Yes just use a larger skillet or pot and double all ingredients as needed.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you try these classic sloppy joes soon! They’re messy delicious and packed with flavor and I’d love to know what twists you add to make them your own. Whether it’s a quick dinner or a nostalgic weekend treat this recipe never disappoints.

Happy Cooking!