Sloppy Joes In A Bun

Prep: 15 min Cook: 30 min Serves: 25 Cuisine: American

Juicy, flavorful Sloppy Joes with savory ground beef and classic seasonings, perfect for family dinners and casual gatherings on soft buns.

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Ingredients

  • 5 lb. ground chuck
  • 2 small bottles catsup
  • 1 small can tomato juice
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 1 Tbsp. chili powder
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 4 c. fine bread crumbs or saltine cracker crumbs
  • 2 Tbsp. oil

Instructions

  1. Saute chopped onion in oil until tender.
  2. Add ground chuck and brown the meat.
  3. Add catsup, tomato juice, chili powder, salt, pepper, and breadcrumbs; mix well.
  4. Use only enough crumbs to make the mixture hold shape for sandwiches.
  5. Serve the mixture on buns.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, you can add a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce to the meat mixture. If you're out of chili powder, a mix of paprika and cumin works well. For a healthier alternative, consider using ground turkey or a plant-based substitute from vegan recipes. Adjust the amount of breadcrumbs based on the desired consistency of the filling; it should be moist but hold together for easy sandwich assembly.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Sloppy Joe mixture on toasted buns for added texture. Consider pairing it with a side of coleslaw or potato chips for a classic meal. This dish also pairs beautifully with picnic favorites like Picnic Meatballs. For a fun twist, try adding pickles or jalapeños to the sandwiches for extra flavor.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, warm the mixture gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. If the mixture seems dry after refrigeration, add a splash of tomato juice or water to moisten it before serving.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Sloppy Joes In A Bun contains roughly 882 calories, with 6g protein, 31g carbohydrates, and 83g fat. It is a good source of iron (13% of the Daily Value), protein (12% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 681mg per serving (30% of the Daily Value).

882 kcal 44% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 5.8g 12% DV
Total Fat 83g 100% DV
Carbs 31.3g 11% DV
Fiber 2.7g 10% DV
Sugar 3.6g 7% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 681mg 30% DV
Potassium 140.6mg 3% DV
Cholesterol 0.4mg

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 36.7mcg 4% DV
Vitamin C 0.4mg
Calcium 80.3mg 6% DV
Iron 2.4mg 13% DV
Contains Wheat/Gluten

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 ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative for a healthier or vegetarian option. Just be mindful of cooking times, as leaner meats may require less cooking to prevent drying out.

What can I do if the mixture is too dry?

If your Sloppy Joe filling is too dry, simply stir in a bit more tomato juice or catsup to achieve the desired consistency. This will enhance the flavor and help the mixture hold together better for serving.

Can I prepare this recipe in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the Sloppy Joe filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, just reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. This makes it a convenient option for busy weeknights or gatherings.

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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