Tip: This homemade Sloppy Joe recipe is around 400-500 calories per serving, depending on the type of bread and ground beef used. It's a perfect meal for casual family dinners or parties, offering that balance of sweet and savory in every bite.

Ingredients:
1 lb ground beef (80/20 is recommended for flavor)

1 small yellow or white onion, finely chopped

1 green bell pepper, finely chopped

1/4 cup ketchup

1/4 cup barbecue sauce (or more for extra tang)

1 tbsp brown sugar

1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

1 tbsp mustard (yellow or Dijon)

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp onion powder

Salt and pepper to taste

6 hamburger buns (toasted, optional)

Instructions:
Step 1:

In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.

Once the beef is browned, drain any excess fat.

Step 2:

Add the finely chopped onion and green bell pepper to the skillet with the cooked beef.

Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften, about 5 minutes.

Step 3:

Stir in the ketchup, barbecue sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, garlic powder, and onion powder.

Add salt and pepper to taste.

Let the mixture simmer for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.

Step 4:

If the mixture seems too thin, let it simmer a little longer to reduce the sauce.

If it's too thick, add a splash of water to thin it out.

Step 5:

Toast the hamburger buns lightly if you prefer a sturdier base.

Spoon the Sloppy Joe mixture generously onto the buns and serve immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I make these Sloppy Joes less sloppy?

Yes! To make the filling thicker, simmer the mixture for a longer time to reduce the liquid. You can also toast your buns before adding the filling to create a barrier and prevent sogginess.

Can I double this recipe for a crowd?

Absolutely! This recipe can easily be doubled or even tripled. Just use a larger pan and increase the cooking time slightly. It’s great for gatherings or parties.

What sides go well with Sloppy Joes?

Classic sides include potato chips, french fries, coleslaw, a simple green salad, or even steamed vegetables. Dill pickles are a great addition for extra crunch and acidity.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! The Sloppy Joe mixture actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Make it up to 3 days ahead and store it in the fridge. Reheat when ready to serve or keep it warm in a slow cooker for parties.

What if my kids don’t like green peppers?

You can leave out the green peppers and still make a delicious Sloppy Joe. Alternatively, try finely grating the peppers so they blend seamlessly into the sauce or use grated carrots for added nutrition.

Notes:
Healthier Tips: For a lighter version, use lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef, and opt for whole wheat buns. You can also use a low-sodium ketchup and barbecue sauce for less salt.

Energy-Saving Tip: If you're short on time, this recipe is quick to make and doesn't require long cooking. Additionally, you can prepare the mixture ahead of time and simply heat it up when you're ready to serve.

Enjoy these delicious, comforting Sloppy Joes that are perfect for any occasion!