Low-Fat Sloppy Joes

Prep: 10 min Cook: 20 min Cuisine: American

A flavorful, low-fat twist on classic Sloppy Joes, featuring lean ground beef, tangy tomato sauce, and fresh peppers, perfect for a quick, satisfying family meal.

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Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground chuck
  • 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
  • 1/2 chopped onion
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1/2 green bell pepper
  • 1 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

Instructions

  1. Brown the ground chuck in a skillet, then drain off the fat.
  2. Mix together the tomato sauce, ketchup, vinegar, sugar, chopped onion, and Worcestershire sauce.
  3. Simmer the mixture until hot.
  4. Cut up the green bell pepper into small pieces and add to the mixture.
  5. Keep in the crock-pot until serving.

Tips & Substitutions

For a healthier twist, consider using lean ground turkey instead of ground chuck. If you want extra flavor, add minced garlic or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture. You can also substitute the green bell pepper with red or yellow for a sweeter taste. For a vegetarian version, try lentils or black beans instead of meat.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the sloppy joes on whole grain buns for a nutritious meal. Pair with a side of homemade coleslaw or sweet potato fries for a complete dinner. For a refreshing dessert, consider Michael'S Chocolate Pie to round out your meal. This recipe is perfect for casual gatherings or weeknight dinners.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring frequently. This dish also freezes well; just thaw and reheat when ready to enjoy.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Low-Fat Sloppy Joes contains roughly 215 calories, with 3g protein, 41g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

215 kcal 11% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 3.2g 6% DV
Total Fat 2.8g 4% DV
Carbs 41.2g 15% DV
Fiber 3.1g 11% DV
Sugar 19.6g 39% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 264mg 11% DV
Potassium 428.4mg 9% DV
Cholesterol 2.6mg 1% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 3.7mcg
Vitamin C 32.7mg 36% DV
Calcium 64.4mg 5% DV
Iron 2.2mg 12% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal Low-fat

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 in advance. Simply store it in the refrigerator and reheat it when you're ready to serve. This is a great option for busy nights or meal prep.

What can I serve with sloppy joes?

Sloppy joes pair well with a variety of sides such as chips, pickles, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with baked beans for a classic American meal.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

If you prefer a spicy kick, try adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the mixture. You could also use spicy ketchup or add red pepper flakes for extra heat.

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).

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