Aunt Mary'S Spoon Burgers (Sloppy Joes)
A hearty, flavorful sloppy joe made with ground beef and a savory tomato-based sauce, perfect for casual family dinners and comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground meat with chopped onion, bell pepper, and celery.
- Drain excess fat and liquid.
- Add tomato sauce, catsup, Worcestershire sauce, and vinegar to the meat mixture.
- Simmer the mixture until heated through and flavors meld.
- Serve on hamburger buns.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper. If you're short on time, you can substitute the ground chuck with ground turkey or chicken. For a vegetarian version, try using lentils or a meat substitute like tempeh. Adjust the sweetness of the sauce by experimenting with different types of ketchup or adding a touch of brown sugar.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your spoon burgers on toasted hamburger buns for added crunch. They pair perfectly with a side of coleslaw or sweet potato fries for a delightful meal. For a unique twist, consider serving alongside Julienne Carrots With Walnuts for a refreshing crunch. A simple green salad can also balance the richness of the burgers.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover spoon burgers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through, adding a splash of water if necessary to maintain moisture. You can also microwave individual portions for quick meals.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Mary'S Spoon Burgers (Sloppy Joes) contains roughly 266 calories, with 3g protein, 57g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (51% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1235mg per serving (54% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meat mixture a day in advance. Simply let it cool, store it in the refrigerator, and reheat when ready to serve. This also allows the flavors to meld even more, enhancing the taste.
What can I use instead of hamburger buns?
If you're looking for alternatives to hamburger buns, consider using lettuce wraps for a low-carb option or cornbread for a slight sweetness. You could also serve the mixture over rice or in a baked potato for a hearty meal.
How can I adjust the spice level?
To adjust the spice level, you can add more Worcestershire sauce for depth or include diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for heat. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of Worcestershire sauce or omit any spicy ingredients.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).