Nana'S Sloppy Joes
Nana's Sloppy Joes offer a tangy, sweet, and savory flavor profile with rich chipped ham in a thickened, flavorful sauce—perfect for casual family meals and comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together all the ingredients in a large pot.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Add chipped ham, a few slices at a time, to ensure it is covered with sauce.
- Reduce heat and simmer for about 30 minutes or longer for a thicker sauce.
- Additional chipped ham can be added to taste.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a dash of liquid smoke or smoked paprika to the sauce. If you want a bit of heat, finely chopped jalapeños or hot sauce can be mixed in. For a healthier twist, substitute half of the ketchup with pureed tomatoes or tomato sauce. Chipped ham can also be swapped for shredded chicken or turkey in this recipe.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Sloppy Joes on toasted hamburger buns for a satisfying meal. They pair beautifully with coleslaw or a simple green salad for a refreshing contrast. You can also offer pickles on the side to complement the richness of the dish. For a heartier option, try them alongside homemade fries or potato chips.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm the Sloppy Joes in a pot over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual servings, covered, for 1-2 minutes or until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Nana'S Sloppy Joes contains roughly 798 calories, with 2g protein, 186g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is a good source of iron (18% of the Daily Value), calcium (15% of the Daily Value), and potassium (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 a different type of meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute chipped ham with ground beef, turkey, or even shredded chicken for a lighter version. Adjust cooking times as necessary, especially if using ground meats, to ensure they are fully cooked.
How can I thicken the sauce if it's too runny?
If your sauce is too thin, continue to simmer it uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes to reduce it. You can also mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little cold water and stir it in, cooking for a few more minutes until thickened.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the Sloppy Joes a day in advance. Let it cool, then refrigerate. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and can enhance the overall taste.
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).