Sloppy Joes(Lots!)

Cook: 50 min Cuisine: American

Juicy, flavorful Sloppy Joes with a tangy tomato and vinegar sauce, perfect for casual gatherings and satisfying comfort food fans.

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Ingredients

  • 4 to 5 lb. lean ground beef
  • 2 or more onions
  • 1/4 cup vinegar
  • 2 bouillon cubes
  • 1 cup hot water
  • 1 bottle chili sauce
  • 1 1/2 (13 1/4 oz.) bottles catsup
  • Same amount water as catsup
  • 5 teaspoons prepared mustard
  • 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
  • garlic salt

Instructions

  1. Brown the lean ground beef and chopped onions in a large skillet.
  2. Add the vinegar, dissolved bouillon cubes in hot water, chili sauce, catsup with water, prepared mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic salt, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. Simmer the mixture uncovered for 40 minutes to an hour, stirring occasionally.

Tips & Substitutions

For added flavor, consider sautéing finely chopped garlic with the onions before adding the beef. If you prefer a sweeter Sloppy Joe, try using barbecue sauce instead of chili sauce. You can also substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Adjust the spice level by adding a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes. This dish is a classic in American recipes and is sure to please a crowd.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Sloppy Joes on toasted hamburger buns for a classic experience. They pair wonderfully with coleslaw or potato chips for a crunchy side. For a heartier meal, consider adding a side of baked beans, like in Dolly Parton'S Cowboy Pork And Beans, or a fresh salad. This dish is perfect for gatherings and casual dinners.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the mixture on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. For longer storage, freeze the Sloppy Joe mixture for up to 3 months.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Sloppy Joes(Lots!) contains roughly 470 calories, with 17g protein, 51g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (41% of the Daily Value), protein (35% of the Daily Value), and iron (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1345mg per serving (58% of the Daily Value).

470 kcal 23% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 17.5g 35% DV
Total Fat 21.9g 28% DV
Carbs 50.7g 18% DV
Fiber 7.2g 26% DV
Sugar 21.8g 44% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1345.2mg 58% DV
Potassium 972.5mg 21% DV
Cholesterol 44.6mg 15% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 276.3mcg 31% DV
Vitamin C 36.8mg 41% DV
Vitamin D 0.1mcg
Calcium 148.9mg 11% DV
Iron 5.5mg 31% DV
Diet fit High-fiber

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 a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it before serving. This can save time during busy weeknights or when hosting a gathering.

What can I use instead of ground beef?

If you're looking for alternatives, ground turkey or chicken can work well and reduce the fat content. For a vegetarian option, consider using lentils or a plant-based meat substitute, adjusting seasonings as needed.

How do I adjust the sweetness of my Sloppy Joes?

To adjust sweetness, simply add more catsup or a bit of brown sugar if you prefer a sweeter flavor. Taste as you go to ensure it meets your preference. You can also balance sweetness with more vinegar if needed.

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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