Barbecue On Buns (Sloppy Joes)
Juicy, flavorful Sloppy Joes with rich tomato and smoky spices, perfect for casual family dinners or gatherings, served on soft hamburger buns for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef and chopped onions in a large skillet.
- Simmer chopped celery in water until tender.
- Combine the cooked beef, onions, celery, tomato paste, catsup, prepared mustard, paprika, chili powder, garlic salt, salt, and pepper in the skillet.
- Simmer the mixture for about 30 minutes or until it reaches desired thickness.
- Serve the hot mixture on hamburger buns.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, try adding diced bell peppers or a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the mixture. If you prefer a milder heat, reduce the chili powder or omit it altogether. For a healthier version, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. You can also use low-sodium catsup or tomato paste to reduce sodium intake.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Sloppy Joe mixture heaped on toasted hamburger buns for a satisfying meal. Pair it with coleslaw or potato chips for a classic experience. You can also serve it alongside a side of Best Ever Cabbage Soup for a comforting dinner. For a fun twist, try adding cheese or pickles on top.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Sloppy Joes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm the mixture in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in short intervals until heated through. For longer storage, freeze the mixture for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Barbecue On Buns (Sloppy Joes) contains roughly 478 calories, with 22g protein, 69g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (139% of the Daily Value), iron (89% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (88% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 913mg per serving (40% 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 use a different type of meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a healthier or vegetarian option. Just be mindful that the cooking time may vary slightly depending on the type of meat used.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To add more heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños, a dash of hot sauce, or increasing the amount of chili powder. You can also experiment with adding cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
Can I prepare the Sloppy Joe mixture in advance?
Absolutely! You can make the mixture a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just reheat it before serving and enjoy a quick meal on busy nights.
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).