Description
This classic Sloppy Joe recipe features ground beef simmered in a tangy, sweet, and savory sauce made with ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and spices. Served on soft hamburger buns, it makes a quick and satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Meat
- 1 pound ground beef
Sauce and Seasonings
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 teaspoons prepared mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
To Serve
- 4 hamburger buns, split
Instructions
- Cook and Drain Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it is nicely browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat from the pan to reduce greasiness.
- Add Ingredients: Return the drained beef to the pan and add ketchup, water, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, prepared mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. Stir thoroughly to combine all the ingredients into a uniform mixture.
- Simmer Sauce: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low to let it simmer. Cover the pan and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Serve: Spoon the hot sloppy joe mixture onto the split hamburger buns. Optionally, add pickle chips or your preferred toppings for extra flavor and crunch. Serve immediately while warm.
Notes
- You can customize the sauce by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat or a splash of vinegar for extra tang.
- To keep it leaner, use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave before serving.
- Adding diced onions or bell peppers when cooking the beef can enhance texture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
