Sloppy Joes are a classic American comfort food that has been a staple in many households for decades. This delicious and easy-to-make dish is perfect for lunch or as a snack, and it’s particularly beloved for its kid-friendly nature. The following recipe is a simple yet incredibly flavorful version of Sloppy Joes that will have your family and friends asking for more.
Recipe Details:
- Name: Sloppy Joes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Description: This is a huge favorite with all my family and friends. Even picky children will eat these. You’ll never buy Manwich again!
- Category: Lunch/Snacks
- Keywords: Meat, Kid Friendly, < 30 Mins, Beginner Cook, Easy, Inexpensive
- Rating: 5 (based on 5 reviews)
- Calories: 304.5 per serving
- Fat Content: 17.7g
- Saturated Fat Content: 6.8g
- Cholesterol Content: 77.1mg
- Sodium Content: 947.9mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 13.8g
- Fiber Content: 3.3g
- Sugar Content: 6.8g
- Protein Content: 23.4g
- Servings: Not specified
- Yield: Not specified
Ingredients:
- 1 – 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 can tomato sauce
- 1 – 3 tablespoons chili powder (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon curry powder
Instructions:
- Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks. Once browned, drain the excess grease.
- Add Vegetables: Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the skillet with the beef. Cook until the onion is translucent and the bell pepper is tender, about 5 minutes.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the chili powder, garlic powder, pepper, salt, curry powder, and tomato sauce to the skillet. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- Simmer: Allow the mixture to simmer for about 1 minute or until heated through.
- Serve: Spoon the mixture onto hamburger buns and serve. These Sloppy Joes make for great leftovers, so don’t hesitate to double the recipe!
Cooking Tips and Tricks:
- Meat Variations: While ground beef is traditional, you can substitute it with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a healthier or vegetarian version.
- Spice Adjustments: The amount of chili powder can be adjusted according to your taste. If you prefer a milder flavor, start with 1 tablespoon and increase if desired.
- Extra Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like diced carrots, celery, or mushrooms to increase the nutritional value.
- Buns and Bread: While classic hamburger buns are the go-to, you can also serve the mixture over toasted bread, in a pita, or even on a baked potato.
- Toppings: Add a slice of cheese, some pickles, or coleslaw on top for extra flavor and texture.
Nutritional Insights:
This recipe is not only delicious but also relatively balanced in terms of macronutrients. With 304.5 calories per serving, it provides a good amount of protein and moderate fat content. The carbohydrate content is fairly low, making it a good option for those watching their carb intake.
Sloppy Joe History:
Sloppy Joes have a somewhat murky origin story, but they are believed to have been invented in the early 20th century. The dish likely started as a loose meat sandwich, which was popular in the Midwest. The name “Sloppy Joe” is said to have been coined in the 1930s at a cafe in Sioux City, Iowa, where a cook named Joe added tomato sauce to his loose meat sandwiches.
Serving Suggestions:
Sloppy Joes are incredibly versatile and can be paired with a variety of sides. Here are some suggestions to round out your meal:
- French Fries or Sweet Potato Fries: The classic side for any burger-like dish.
- Coleslaw: Adds a crunchy, tangy element that complements the savory Sloppy Joes.
- Salad: A light garden salad or a more substantial potato salad can balance the richness of the dish.
- Corn on the Cob: A summertime favorite that pairs wonderfully with Sloppy Joes.
- Baked Beans: Another classic pairing that enhances the comfort food appeal.
Leftover Ideas:
Sloppy Joes make excellent leftovers. Here are a few creative ways to enjoy them the next day:
- Sloppy Joe Tacos: Spoon the mixture into taco shells and top with shredded cheese, lettuce, and tomatoes.
- Sloppy Joe Stuffed Peppers: Fill halved bell peppers with the mixture, top with cheese, and bake until the peppers are tender.
- Sloppy Joe Pasta: Mix the leftover Sloppy Joe filling with cooked pasta and top with cheese for a quick and tasty pasta bake.
- Sloppy Joe Pizza: Spread the mixture over a pizza crust, add some mozzarella cheese, and bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Conclusion:
This Sloppy Joe recipe is a delightful, quick, and easy meal that is sure to become a staple in your household. With its rich flavor and kid-friendly appeal, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. The versatility of the recipe allows you to customize it to your taste, making it a dish you’ll return to time and again. Enjoy the comfort and nostalgia of homemade Sloppy Joes, and say goodbye to store-bought versions forever!
