Sloppy Joe Recipe

The Sloppy Joe, a staple of American cuisine, has an intriguing backstory that dates back to the early 20th century. While the exact origins are somewhat murky, it is widely believed that the Sloppy Joe was inspired by a dish known as "loose meat sandwiches." The loose meat sandwich, a simple combination of seasoned ground beef served on a bun, first gained popularity in the 1920s in Sioux City, Iowa. It was at a local diner owned by a man named Joe that this dish was given its now-famous name.

Discover a delicious twist on a classic favorite with Sizzling BBQ Sloppy Joes. This mouthwatering recipe combines the rich history of Sloppy Joes with smoky barbecue flavors, making it perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, you can whip up a satisfying dish that delights taste buds. Explore essential ingredients, cooking techniques, and creative serving suggestions for a meal that everyone will love.

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Ingredients

1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner alternative)

1 small onion, finely chopped

1 bell pepper, diced (choose red or green for color)

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup tomato sauce (preferably no added sugar)

1/4 cup ketchup (homemade or store-bought)

2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

1 tablespoon brown sugar

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 teaspoon salt

4 hamburger buns (whole wheat or traditional)

Olive oil (for cooking)

Sliced pickles (optional, for topping)

Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

Sauté the Vegetables: Heat a generous drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and diced bell pepper. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they are softened and slightly translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, allowing the garlic to release its aroma.

Brown the Meat: Increase the heat to medium-high. Add the ground beef (or turkey) to the skillet. Use a spatula to break the meat into smaller pieces. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. If desired, drain any excess fat to keep the dish lean.

Create the Sloppy Joe Sauce: Reduce the heat back to medium. Pour in the tomato sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt into the skillet. Stir thoroughly to combine, ensuring that the meat is evenly coated with the sauce.

Simmer: Allow the mixture to simmer uncovered for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will help the sauce thicken and the flavors meld together beautifully. Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary to suit your preference.

Toast the Buns (Optional): While the Sloppy Joe mixture simmers, toast the hamburger buns in a separate skillet or place them in a toaster until they turn a lovely golden brown.

Assemble: Spoon a generous and heaping portion of the Sloppy Joe mixture onto each toasted bun. Top with sliced pickles for an extra crunch and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley to enhance both flavor and visual appeal.

Serve & Enjoy: Arrange your BBQ Sloppy Joes on a platter and serve them warm. Pair them with a side of crispy fries, tangy coleslaw, or your favorite chips for a complete and satisfying meal!

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4