Introduction
Crockpot Sloppy Joes are a timeless comfort food that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this slow-cooked dish combines savory ground beef with a tangy tomato-based sauce, served on warm hamburger buns. With minimal effort required, you can create a meal that everyone will love.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
2 lbs ground beef
1 small onion, finely diced
1 small green bell pepper, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
½ cup ketchup
2 tablespoons tomato paste
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
2 tablespoons yellow mustard
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
8 hamburger buns
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 4-6 hours (low) or 2-3 hours (high)
Total Time: 4-6 hours and 15 minutes
Yield: Serves 8
Crockpot Sloppy Joes are a simple yet satisfying dish that brings together a few staple ingredients for a hearty meal. By following these easy steps, you can prepare a delicious dinner that is sure to please friends and family alike. Enjoy this classic dish on your next family night!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s fully browned. Break it up with a spatula as it cooks, about 7-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat. Once the beef is browned, add the diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet. Sauté for another 3-5 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In a medium bowl, combine the tomato sauce, ketchup, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, chili powder (if using), and salt and pepper. Whisk together until smooth and well-combined.
Step 3: Combine and Slow Cook
Add the cooked beef and vegetables to the crockpot. Pour the sauce over the top and stir everything together until well combined. Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours. Stir occasionally to make sure everything cooks evenly.
Step 4: Serve
For extra flavor, lightly toast your hamburger buns in a skillet or under the broiler. Spoon the Sloppy Joe mixture onto the buns and serve hot.
Notes
Ingredient Variations
You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option instead of ground beef.
Vegetable Options
If desired, red bell peppers can be used instead of green bell peppers to add a slightly different flavor.
Storage
Leftover Sloppy Joe mixture can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with sides like potato chips or a simple salad for a complete meal.
Cook techniques
Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned, breaking it up with a spatula while cooking, about 7-10 minutes. Drain excess fat.
Add Vegetables
Once the beef is browned, incorporate the diced onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté for an additional 3-5 minutes until the vegetables soften.
Prepare the Sauce
In a medium bowl, mix the tomato sauce, ketchup, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, yellow mustard, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, chili powder (if using), and salt and pepper. Whisk until smooth and well combined.
Combine and Slow Cook
Transfer the beef and vegetable mix to the crockpot, pour the sauce over it, and stir to combine. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally.
Serve
For added flavor, toast the hamburger buns before serving. Spoon the Sloppy Joe mixture onto the buns and serve hot.
FAQ
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
What can I use if I don’t have Worcestershire sauce?
A mixture of soy sauce and a bit of vinegar can work as a substitute for Worcestershire sauce.
Can I freeze the Sloppy Joe mixture?
Yes, the Sloppy Joe mixture can be frozen for later use. Just thaw and reheat before serving.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
You can add more chili powder or include hot sauce to increase the heat.
What should I serve with Sloppy Joes?
Sloppy Joes are great served with chips, coleslaw, or a side salad.
Conclusion
Crockpot Sloppy Joes deliver a comforting and flavorful meal that’s perfect for busy days. The combination of tender ground meat, savory vegetables, and a rich sauce creates a delightful balance that satisfies cravings. Easy to prepare and adaptable to different tastes, these Sloppy Joes make a fantastic addition to your weeknight dinner rotation.
Ground Beef Variations
Try substituting the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even lentils for a vegetarian option to cater to various dietary preferences.
Spicy Sloppy Joes
Add diced jalapeños or increase the chili powder for a spicier kick that elevates the flavor profile.
BBQ Sloppy Joes
Mix in your favorite BBQ sauce in place of some ketchup for a smoky twist on the classic recipe.
Cheesy Sloppy Joes
Top your Sloppy Joes with shredded cheese before serving for a delicious and creamy texture.
Italian Sloppy Joes
Incorporate Italian seasoning and use marinara sauce instead of tomato sauce for an Italian-inspired version.
Sloppy Joe Sliders
Serve the mixture on mini buns for sliders, perfect for parties or game day snacks.
Vegetable Packed Sloppy Joes
Add finely chopped carrots, zucchini, or mushrooms to the meat mixture for an extra serving of veggies.
Sweet and Spicy Sloppy Joes
Include diced pineapple or peach preserves in the sauce for a sweet and spicy flavor combination.