Sloppy Joes

Prep: 10 min Cook: 20 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: American

Sloppy Joes are a classic American comfort food, featuring ground beef simmered in a tangy, sweet sauce. With flavors of ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and a hint of mustard, this dish is perfect for casual gatherings or family dinners, appealing to both kids and adults alike.

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Ingredients

  • 1 lb. hamburger
  • 1 c. ketchup
  • 3 Tbsp. Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 Tbsp. mustard
  • 2 Tbsp. sugar
  • salt to taste

Instructions

  1. Brown and drain the hamburger.
  2. Add the ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, sugar, salt, and pepper to the cooked hamburger and simmer for 20 minutes.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider adding chopped onions and bell peppers while browning the hamburger. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you like a bit of heat, try adding a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper. For extra sweetness, consider using barbecue sauce in place of some ketchup, or try a mix of both for a unique twist.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Sloppy Joes on toasted hamburger buns for a classic presentation. They pair wonderfully with sides like potato chips or a fresh salad. For a heartier meal, consider serving with Nana'S Cornbread(For 9-Inch Iron Skillet Or 8 X 8-Inch Pan) or coleslaw to complement the dish's flavors and textures.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover Sloppy Joes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture. You can also microwave them in short intervals, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Sloppy Joes contains roughly 149 calories, with 4g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (64% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (36% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 860mg per serving (37% of the Daily Value).

149 kcal 7% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 4.5g 9% DV
Total Fat 1.1g 1% DV
Carbs 34.9g 13% DV
Fiber 6.3g 22% DV
Sugar 4g 8% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 859.9mg 37% DV
Potassium 476.3mg 10% DV
Cholesterol 1.2mg

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 319.5mcg 36% DV
Vitamin C 57.8mg 64% DV
Calcium 111.9mg 9% DV
Iron 1.7mg 10% DV
Diet fit High-fiber Under 400 cal Low-fat

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 in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat it when you're ready to serve. This makes it a great option for busy weeknights or meal prep.

How can I make Sloppy Joes less messy?

To reduce mess, try using a thicker bun or toasting the insides of the bun to help it hold up better against the filling. You can also serve the mixture over rice or in a bowl for a neat alternative.

What can I serve with Sloppy Joes?

In addition to traditional sides like fries or chips, consider serving them with a fresh garden salad or baked beans. They also pair nicely with Creole Green Beans for a colorful and flavorful plate.

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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