Although the name doesn’t sound too appealing, Sloppy Joes were a staple growing up. My mom’s version has just the right amount of sweet and I love that you can mix in some ‘hidden’ veggies for the kiddos. We add onion and red pepper to ours, but you could add green pepper, tomatoes, etc. The entire recipe comes together very quickly and then you just let everything simmer- which gives you plenty of time to get homework done, bath time, etc.
I hope you enjoy!
The Best Sloppy Joes
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons of butter
- 1/2 cup yellow onion, diced fine
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 1/2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1 pound ground round
- 2 1/2 tablespoons light brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 3/4 teaspoon Liquid Smoke
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- salt and pepper, to taste
- buns for serving
Directions
- Heat a large pan over medium heat and add the butter. Once melted, quickly add the onion and stir occasionally until translucent in color.
- Add the peppers and garlic and stir occasionally for 1 minute.
- Add the ground beef and break it up with a wooden spoon, stirring it all together. Allow to cook until the meat is browned. Strain mixture to remove fat (optional).
- Combine brown sugar, mustard, Worcestershire, liquid smoke, chili powder, and paprika in a bowl. Stir for 1 minute and then add ketchup and vinegar. Add this entire mixture to the cooked ground beef.
- Combine all ingredients and add salt and pepper to taste. Cook for at least 5 minutes before serving (we like to let this mixture simmer for about 45 min before serving, but it is up to you!).
- Scoop onto buns that have been brushed with butter and enjoy!
We typically eat this with mac and cheese and a green veggie like broccoli or green beans. I hope you enjoy!
