Sloppy Joes II: A Classic Comfort Food Recipe

Sloppy Joes are a quintessential American comfort food, loved for their rich, tangy flavor and easy preparation. This Sloppy Joes II recipe offers a delicious, homemade version of the classic sandwich, perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or casual get-togethers. Let’s explore how to make this satisfying meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Sloppy Joes II recipe is perfect for busy families, home cooks looking for a quick and hearty meal, and anyone who loves classic American fare. It’s a straightforward recipe using common pantry ingredients, and it’s incredibly versatile, allowing for easy customization to suit your taste preferences.

Sloppy Joes II: A Classic Comfort Food Recipe

Recipe by Alesia IonaCourse: LunchCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

8

servings

Prep time

10

minutes

Cooking time

30

minutes

Calories

320

kcal

Sloppy Joes II is a classic comfort food recipe that’s quick and easy to make. With just 10 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes of cooking time, you can enjoy this delicious meal in under an hour. Each serving of Sloppy Joes II contains approximately 320 calories, making it a satisfying option for a hearty dinner or casual gathering. Serve this flavorful mixture of ground beef, onions, peppers, and spices on hamburger buns for a nostalgic and comforting meal that everyone will love!

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef

• 1/4 cup chopped onion

• 1/4 cup chopped green bell pepper

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon yellow mustard

• 3/4 cup ketchup

• 3 teaspoons brown sugar

• Salt to taste

• Ground black pepper to taste

• 8 hamburger buns

Directions

• In a medium skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef, onion, and green bell pepper; drain off liquids.
• Stir in the garlic powder, mustard, ketchup, and brown sugar; mix thoroughly. Reduce heat, and simmer for 30 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
• Spoon the mixture onto the hamburger buns. Serve hot.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

To make this recipe, you’ll need the following kitchen equipment:

• Medium skillet
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board
• Knife

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Sloppy Joes

• Browning the Beef: Make sure to brown the ground beef well to develop a deep, rich flavor.
• Simmering: Let the mixture simmer for the full 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.
• Customize Your Sauce: Adjust the sweetness and tanginess by varying the amount of brown sugar and ketchup according to your preference.
• Toasted Buns: Toasting the hamburger buns adds a nice crunch and helps prevent them from getting too soggy.

Recipe Variations and Swaps

• Turkey Sloppy Joes: Substitute ground turkey for a lighter version.
• Vegetarian Option: Use lentils or a meat substitute in place of ground beef for a vegetarian version.
• Spicy Sloppy Joes: Add some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture for a spicy kick.
• Cheesy Sloppy Joes: Top with shredded cheese just before serving for a gooey, cheesy twist.

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Sloppy Joe mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the mixture for up to 3 months. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water if necessary to loosen the sauce.

Pairing Suggestions

Sloppy Joes are incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of sides. Here are a few suggestions:

• French Fries: Classic and always a hit.
• Coleslaw: Adds a refreshing crunch and balances the rich flavors.
• Potato Salad: A hearty and comforting side.
• Corn on the Cob: Sweet and juicy, a perfect summer pairing.

FAQ

Q: Can I make Sloppy Joe’s in advance? A: Yes, the mixture can be made a day ahead and reheated when ready to serve, making it a great option for meal prep.

Q: How can I make the mixture less sweet? A: Reduce the amount of brown sugar or use a sugar substitute if you prefer a less sweet Sloppy Joe.

Q: Can I use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder? A: Yes, you can use one clove of minced fresh garlic in place of the garlic powder for a more robust garlic flavor.

Q: How can I prevent the buns from getting soggy? A: Toasting the buns helps to create a barrier that prevents them from becoming too soggy. You can also serve the mixture in a lettuce wrap as a low-carb option.

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