Sloppy Joes For A Bunch
Hearty and flavorful Sloppy Joes with rich tomato sauce, perfect for feeding a crowd or family gatherings, offering a savory, slightly sweet, and tangy taste experience.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the hamburger in the microwave and drain excess fat.
- Cook the chopped onion and minced celery with olive oil in the microwave until tender.
- Place the browned hamburger in a crock-pot.
- Add the remaining ingredients to the crock-pot.
- Stir everything together and taste; adjust sweetness or acidity with brown sugar or vinegar as needed.
- Cook in the crock-pot until the olive oil rises to the top.
- Spoon off as much oil as possible before serving.
- This dish serves many and freezes well. For a smaller batch, omit the Not So Sloppy Joes sauce and halve all other ingredients.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture. If you prefer a spicier kick, finely chopped jalapeños can be mixed in. Adjust the sweetness with brown sugar based on your taste; you can also substitute honey or maple syrup. If you need a gluten-free option, use gluten-free buns and sauces.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Sloppy Joes on toasted hamburger buns for a classic touch. Pair with coleslaw or a simple green salad for a refreshing contrast. For a hearty meal, try serving alongside baked beans or a side of Skillet Hominy. This dish also makes a fun filling for baked potatoes or nachos.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Sloppy Joes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, place cooled portions in freezer-safe bags or containers, where they can last for about 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and warm in a skillet or the microwave until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sloppy Joes For A Bunch contains roughly 807 calories, with 2g protein, 142g carbohydrates, and 28g fat. It is a good source of iron (11% of the Daily Value) and calcium (11% of the Daily Value).
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use ground turkey instead of hamburger?
Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative for a leaner option. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as turkey may cook faster than beef. The flavor will be slightly different, but you can enhance it with additional seasonings.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, substitute the hamburger with lentils or a plant-based meat alternative. You can also use chopped mushrooms for added texture and flavor. Ensure the sauces and condiments used are vegetarian-friendly.
What can I serve with Sloppy Joes for a party?
For a party, consider serving Sloppy Joes with a variety of sides like chips, pickles, and corn on the cob. You might also include dips like guacamole or salsa. This dish pairs well with American recipes that are easy to serve in large quantities.
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).