Turkey Sloppy Joes
Juicy ground turkey is simmered with vegetables and a flavorful tomato-based sauce, creating hearty and versatile sloppy joes perfect for casual family dinners. The combination of ketchup, mustard, vinegar, and seasonings delivers a tangy, savory taste that appeals to all ages and pairs well with buns or bread.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the ground turkey in a skillet until browned; drain off any excess liquid.
- Add the chopped green pepper, chopped onion, and chopped celery (if using) to the skillet; cook until vegetables are tender.
- Stir in the tomato soup, water, ketchup, mustard, white vinegar, and sugar.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 1 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier flavor, consider adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce. You can substitute ground turkey with lean ground beef for a richer taste. If you want to reduce sodium, use low-sodium tomato soup and ketchup. Adding some garlic powder can enhance the depth of flavor. For a quicker option, use pre-chopped vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the turkey sloppy joes on toasted hamburger buns for the best texture. Pair with coleslaw or sweet potato fries for a perfect balance. This dish also goes well with a side of pickles or a simple green salad. For a comforting meal, consider serving it with a bowl of soup, like Beverly Anne's Turkey Chili.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave individual portions in a microwave-safe dish for about 1-2 minutes, checking to ensure it's heated evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Turkey Sloppy Joes contains roughly 569 calories, with 11g protein, 103g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (111% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (49% of the Daily Value), and protein (22% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 535mg per serving (23% of the Daily Value).
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 turkey sloppy joes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the turkey mixture a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat when you're ready to serve. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and can save time on busy weeknights.
What can I serve with turkey sloppy joes?
Turkey sloppy joes pair well with various sides, such as crispy potato chips or a fresh garden salad. You can also serve them with baked beans or corn on the cob for a classic American meal experience.
How can I make this recipe healthier?
To make the turkey sloppy joes healthier, you can use whole grain buns and add more vegetables to the mixture, such as grated carrots or zucchini. You can also reduce the amount of ketchup and sugar for fewer calories while still keeping the flavor.
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).