Cousin Linda'S Sloppy Joes
Cousin Linda's Sloppy Joes are hearty, flavorful sandwiches with savory ground beef, tangy ketchup, and a hint of mustard, perfect for casual family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 cup chopped onions ⓘ
- 2 teaspoons butter ⓘ
- 4 pounds cooked and drained hamburger ⓘ
- 2 cups ketchup ⓘ
- 1 cup water ⓘ
- 1/2 cup chopped celery ⓘ
- 1/4 cup ReaLemon juice
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar ⓘ
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt ⓘ
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper ⓘ
- 2 teaspoons vinegar ⓘ
- 1/2 teaspoon dry mustard ⓘ
Instructions
- Saute chopped onions in butter until translucent.
- Cook ground hamburger until browned and drain excess fat.
- Add all remaining ingredients to the cooked meat and onions.
- Cover the pan and simmer the mixture for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best flavor, allow the Sloppy Joes to simmer for a full 20 minutes to meld the ingredients. If you prefer a tangier sauce, consider adding more vinegar or using apple cider vinegar instead. Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for the hamburger for a leaner option. This dish is a crowd-pleaser and pairs well with classic American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Sloppy Joes on toasted hamburger buns for a delightful meal. They pair excellently with a side of coleslaw or fries. For a fun twist, try adding a slice of cheese on top before serving, or enjoy alongside Myra'S Lettuce Dressing for a refreshing salad accompaniment.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the mixture in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, adding a splash of water if it thickens too much. You can also microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between, until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cousin Linda'S Sloppy Joes contains roughly 945 calories, with 1g protein, 235g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is a good source of calcium (17% of the Daily Value), iron (12% of the Daily Value), and potassium (10% 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 Sloppy Joe mixture a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat it when you're ready to serve. This allows the flavors to deepen and makes it a great option for meal prep or entertaining.
What can I use instead of ketchup?
If you're looking to avoid ketchup, you can substitute it with a mixture of tomato sauce and a bit of sugar to replicate the sweetness. You could also use BBQ sauce for a different flavor profile, adding a smoky element to your Sloppy Joes.
How can I spice up the Sloppy Joes?
To add some heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture. Alternatively, a sprinkle of chili powder or cayenne pepper can elevate the flavor while maintaining the dish's original essence.
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).