J & S Sloppy Joes
Juicy, flavorful Sloppy Joes with a tangy, sweet, and savory sauce, perfect for casual family dinners and gatherings that enjoy rich, hearty sandwiches.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the hamburger and onion in butter in a large skillet or pot.
- Add vinegar, brown sugar, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, dry mustard, ketchup, water, chopped celery, and salt to taste.
- Simmer the mixture for 4 hours, stirring occasionally to combine flavors.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce to the mix. If you're short on time, ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of hamburger for a lighter option. You can also substitute apple cider vinegar for a different tang. Remember to adjust salt based on your ketchup's saltiness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the sloppy joes on toasted hamburger buns for a classic approach. Pair them with a side of coleslaw or potato chips for a satisfying meal. For a twist, try topping with pickles or jalapeños. This dish also pairs beautifully with Missouri Kraut for a flavorful variation.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the sloppy joe mixture in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave it in a covered bowl, stirring every minute until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of J & S Sloppy Joes contains roughly 1141 calories, with 13g protein, 94g carbohydrates, and 73g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (30% of the Daily Value) and protein (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1223mg per serving (53% 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 ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat it on the stove or in the microwave when you’re ready to serve. This allows the flavors to meld even more, making it taste even better.
Can I freeze the sloppy joe mixture?
Absolutely! The sloppy joe mixture freezes well. Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as needed.
What can I serve with sloppy joes?
Sloppy joes are versatile and can be served with various sides. Great options include classic coleslaw, potato salad, or sweet potato fries. For a lighter option, serve with a green salad. You can also browse more American recipes for more pairing ideas.
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).