Margie Gessaman'S Sloppy Joes
Juicy, flavorful Sloppy Joes with a tangy chili sauce and sweet brown sugar, perfect for a quick, family-friendly meal served on soft hamburger buns.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown hamburger and onion in a skillet.
- Drain on paper towels.
- Return meat and onion to skillet.
- Add chili sauce, brown sugar, water, salt, and pepper.
- Mix well and simmer for a few minutes.
- Serve on hamburger buns.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, try using a mix of ground beef and pork. If you prefer a spicier kick, add a dash of hot sauce or diced jalapeños to the mixture. If you don’t have chili sauce, ketchup can be used as a substitute, though it will alter the taste slightly. Make sure to drain the meat well to avoid soggy buns.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your sloppy joes on toasted hamburger buns for added texture. Pair them with classic sides like coleslaw or potato chips for a delightful contrast. A simple green salad or baked beans can also complement the meal beautifully. Consider trying these with a side of Ham Balls - Sweet And Sour for a fun twist.
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 skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between. Serve warm on fresh hamburger buns.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Margie Gessaman'S Sloppy Joes contains roughly 194 calories, with 3g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (86% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 683mg per serving (30% 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 sloppy joes ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sloppy joe mixture a day in advance. Simply let it cool, then store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat it on the stove or in the microwave, and serve on fresh buns for a quick meal.
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative for a lighter version of sloppy joes. It absorbs the flavors of the sauce well, but be careful not to overcook it, as turkey can dry out. Adjust your seasoning to enhance the flavor if needed.
What can I serve with sloppy joes?
Sloppy joes pair well with a variety of sides. Classic options include baked beans, potato wedges, or crispy fries. You could also serve them with a refreshing cucumber salad or coleslaw. For a heartier meal, consider adding some mac and cheese on the side.
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).