Easy Weeknight Sloppy Joes 🍔

Introduction

Looking for a classic, comforting meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights? Look no further than this cherished recipe for “Mrs. McCann’s Barbeque” Sloppy Joes! Passed down through generations, this timeless dish originated from a neighbor of the creator’s great-aunt back in the 1940s. Made with simple ingredients and bursting with flavor, it’s sure to become a family favorite in your home too!

Overview

Cook Time: 1 hour
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Cuisine: American
Category: Lunch/Snacks

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups catsup
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup sugar
2 teaspoons mustard
2 teaspoons vinegar
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
2 medium onions, finely chopped
1 pound ground round (or your preferred ground meat)

Instructions

1. Cook the Meat

Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the ground round.
Season the meat with salt and add the chopped onions.
Cook the meat slowly, breaking it apart with a spoon as it browns. This step infuses the meat with flavor and ensures a juicy texture.

2. Prepare the Sauce

In a separate saucepan, combine the catsup, sugar, mustard, vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce.
Stir the ingredients together until well combined.
Place the saucepan over low heat and let it simmer gently for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

3. Combine and Simmer

Once the meat is fully cooked and the onions are translucent, drain any excess fat from the skillet.
Add the prepared sauce to the skillet with the cooked meat.
Stir the mixture thoroughly to coat the meat evenly with the sauce.
Reduce the heat to low and let the Sloppy Joe mixture simmer gently for at least an hour. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to ensure the meat absorbs all the delicious flavors of the sauce.

4. Serve

When ready to serve, toast your favorite hamburger buns to golden perfection.
Spoon generous portions of the Sloppy Joe mixture onto the bottom halves of the toasted buns.
Top with the remaining bun halves and serve hot, garnished with your favorite accompaniments, such as pickles, cheese, or sliced tomatoes.

Tips and Serving Suggestions

For a healthier option, use lean ground meat such as ground round or ground turkey.
If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can simmer the mixture for a bit longer to reduce it to your desired consistency.
Serve these Sloppy Joes alongside a crisp green salad or your favorite coleslaw for a complete and satisfying meal.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Conclusion

With its rich history and irresistible flavors, this Easy Weeknight Sloppy Joes recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family on a busy weeknight or hosting a casual gathering with friends, these Sloppy Joes are sure to impress with their hearty, comforting goodness. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a taste of nostalgia with every bite!