Get ready to indulge in the nostalgic comfort of 4 H Sloppy Joes, a hearty and satisfying dish that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or casual weeknight meals. This classic recipe combines tender ground beef or turkey with a tangy, slightly sweet homemade sauce made from ketchup, tomato paste, and a medley of spices like smoked paprika and chili powder for a rich, smoky depth of flavor. Sautéed onions, green bell peppers, and garlic add a savory base, while a touch of brown sugar and Worcestershire sauce elevate the taste to perfection. Ready in just 30 minutes, these sloppy joes are served on soft, toasted hamburger buns for a deliciously messy bite. Pair them with crisp coleslaw or crunchy kettle chips for an easy, kid-approved meal that’s sure to become a household favorite!
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef (or turkey) and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
Add the diced onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened.
Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the ketchup, tomato paste, brown sugar, yellow mustard, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper.
Add the water to the skillet, and stir until everything is well combined. Let the mixture simmer on low heat for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.
While the sloppy joe mixture is simmering, optionally toast the hamburger buns. Spread a thin layer of butter on the cut sides of the buns and toast them on a skillet or griddle over medium heat until golden brown.
Spoon the sloppy joe mixture onto the bottom buns, spreading evenly. Place the top buns over the mixture and serve immediately.
Pair with optional sides like chips, coleslaw, or a fresh green salad.
Calories |
2514 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 147.6 g | 189% | |
| Saturated Fat | 67.3 g | 336% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 426 mg | 142% | |
| Sodium | 4573 mg | 199% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 224.9 g | 82% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 121.2 g | 433% | |
| Total Sugars | 76.0 g | ||
| Protein | 195.4 g | 391% | |
| Vitamin D | 1.2 mcg | 6% | |
| Calcium | 348 mg | 27% | |
| Iron | 24.4 mg | 136% | |
| Potassium | 2344 mg | 50% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.