Sloppier Joes
Hearty and flavorful Sloppier Joes feature seasoned ground beef, crispy bacon, melted cheese, and savory tomatoes served on soft buns, perfect for casual family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the hamburger until it is all broken apart.
- Add the diced onion and cook until glazed.
- Add the tomatoes and simmer for 25 minutes without a cover, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching.
- Remove from heat and place a heaping spoonful of the meat mixture on the bottom of each hamburger bun, setting aside the tops.
- Sprinkle the meat mixture with the crisp bacon slices and top with grated cheese.
- Place the buns under the broiler until the cheese is melted.
- Cover with bun tops and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating Worcestershire sauce or barbecue sauce into the meat mixture. If you prefer a healthier option, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the hamburger. Feel free to add bell peppers or garlic for extra depth. To save time, use pre-diced onions or canned diced tomatoes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Sloppier Joes with a side of coleslaw or potato chips for a classic pairing. For a heartier meal, consider adding baked beans or a green salad. These sandwiches also pair beautifully with Homestyle Bean Soup for a comforting dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the meat mixture in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, or microwave in short intervals. Serve on fresh buns for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sloppier Joes contains roughly 449 calories, with 11g protein, 47g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 735mg per serving (32% 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 Sloppier Joes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meat 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 meld even more, making your Sloppier Joes even tastier.
What can I use instead of hamburger?
Ground turkey or chicken are great alternatives if you're looking for a leaner option. You can also try using plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian version. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
Can I freeze the Sloppier Joe filling?
Absolutely! The meat mixture freezes well. Just cool it completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
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).