Transform your meal prep with this Whole30 Classic Sloppy Joe Sauce—a healthier twist on a classic American comfort food favorite. This robust, flavorful sauce is crafted with wholesome ingredients like olive oil, fresh onion, red bell pepper, and garlic, complemented by zesty tomato paste, coconut aminos, and a splash of apple cider vinegar for tangy depth. Seasoned with chili powder, paprika, and Dijon mustard, it delivers bold flavor without added sugars or processed ingredients, making it perfect for Whole30, Paleo, and gluten-free diets. Ready in just 35 minutes, this sauce pairs beautifully with ground beef, turkey, or chicken for a satisfying meal. Whether served atop roasted veggies, wrapped in lettuce leaves, or spooned over a baked potato, it’s a versatile recipe you'll love keeping on hand for quick, healthy dinners.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion and red bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and the pepper softens.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the tomato paste to the skillet and stir well, allowing it to caramelize slightly for about 2 minutes.
Pour in the tomato sauce and water, stirring until the mixture is smooth.
Add the apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and coconut aminos. Stir well to combine.
Add the chili powder, paprika, sea salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to ensure even seasoning.
Lower the heat to medium-low and let the sauce simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until it thickens.
Adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed.
Serve the sauce over your choice of cooked ground beef, turkey, or chicken, or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Calories |
600 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 22.0 g | 28% | |
| Saturated Fat | 2.6 g | 13% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1.3 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 4613 mg | 201% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 90.8 g | 33% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 22.3 g | 80% | |
| Total Sugars | 46.0 g | ||
| Protein | 12.7 g | 25% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 179 mg | 14% | |
| Iron | 10.4 mg | 58% | |
| Potassium | 2967 mg | 63% | |
*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.