Sloppy Joes(Midwest "Taverns")

Cook: 10 min Cuisine: American

Juicy, flavorful Sloppy Joes with a tangy tomato sauce, seasoned beef, and a hint of mustard, perfect for casual gatherings and family dinners served in soft buns.

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Ingredients

  • 2/3 cup ketchup
  • 2/3 cup water
  • onion
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon prepared mustard

Instructions

  1. Boil ketchup, water, and onion for 3 minutes.
  2. Add ground beef, chili powder, and salt.
  3. Boil for 7 minutes.
  4. Stir to keep out chunks and add prepared mustard.
  5. Serve hot in hamburger buns using a slotted spoon.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of smoked paprika. If you're out of ketchup, tomato sauce can be used as a substitute, but adjust the seasoning accordingly. To enhance the onion flavor, sauté it first before adding other ingredients. This Sloppy Joe recipe is a classic Midwest favorite, reminiscent of American recipes that are easy to prepare and satisfying.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Sloppy Joes on toasted hamburger buns for added texture. Pair them with classic sides like coleslaw or potato chips for a complete meal. For an extra touch, top with shredded cheese or pickles. This dish also complements well with Bestemore's Baked Beans, making it a great option for gatherings or casual dinners.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover Sloppy Joes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water if necessary to maintain moisture. Alternatively, you can microwave them in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Sloppy Joes(Midwest "Taverns") contains roughly 157 calories, with 4g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (25% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1074mg per serving (47% of the Daily Value).

157 kcal 8% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 3.9g 8% DV
Total Fat 8.1g 10% DV
Carbs 21.2g 8% DV
Fiber 6.1g 22% DV
Sugar 3.3g 7% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1074.4mg 47% DV
Potassium 349mg 7% DV
Cholesterol 0.9mg

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 229.3mcg 25% DV
Vitamin C 1.1mg 1% DV
Calcium 75.3mg 6% DV
Iron 3.1mg 17% DV
Diet fit High-fiber Under 400 cal

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 turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef to create a lighter version of Sloppy Joes. Just be aware that the cooking time may vary slightly, and you might need to adjust the seasonings to enhance the flavor.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version of Sloppy Joes, replace the ground beef with lentils, mushrooms, or a plant-based meat substitute. Adjust the seasoning to match the desired flavor profile, and ensure to cook the lentils fully if using them.

What can I do if the mixture is too runny?

If your Sloppy Joe mixture turns out too runny, let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes to reduce the liquid. You can also stir in a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water to help thicken the sauce.

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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