Barbecue Sloppy Joes
Juicy, smoky barbecue Sloppy Joes made with ground beef or turkey, topped with chilies, perfect for casual gatherings or quick family dinners with bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a frypan, cook the ground beef or turkey until browned and drain excess fat.
- Add barbecue sauce and water to the cooked meat, stirring to combine and cover.
- Stir in green diced chilies and cook until heated through.
- Spoon the mixture onto hamburger buns and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a tangier kick, consider adding a splash of apple cider vinegar or Worcestershire sauce to the barbecue mixture. Ground turkey can be substituted for a leaner option, but be sure to cook it fully to avoid dryness. If you prefer a spicier version, add some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne. Pairing with a side salad can balance the richness of this dish.
Serving Suggestions
These barbecue sloppy joes are best served hot on toasted hamburger buns. Consider pairing them with coleslaw or potato chips for added crunch. For a complete meal, serve with baked beans or a side of corn on the cob. They also make a great filling for stuffed peppers, similar to a Stuffed Green Pepper dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover sloppy joe mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the mixture in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can also microwave it in a microwave-safe bowl, covered, for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Barbecue Sloppy Joes contains roughly 87 calories, with 6g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is a good source of protein (11% 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 chicken instead of beef or turkey?
Yes, you can use shredded rotisserie chicken or ground chicken as a leaner alternative. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time if using pre-cooked chicken, heating it until warmed through before adding the barbecue sauce.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, substitute the meat with lentils or a plant-based ground meat alternative. You can also add diced vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added texture and flavor.
What type of barbecue sauce works best?
The choice of barbecue sauce can greatly affect the flavor of your sloppy joes. A smoky or sweet sauce pairs nicely with the chilies and beef. Feel free to experiment with different regional sauces to find your favorite combination.
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).