Homemade Sloppy Joes with Beef and Pepper Recipe

Introduction

Sloppy joes are a delicious and comforting classic American sandwich, perfect for a hearty lunch or casual dinner. This recipe combines savory beef mince with tangy ketchup and smoky spices, all served in warm, toasted burger buns. Easy to make and full of flavor, it’s sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 400g beef mince
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 green pepper, finely chopped
• 1 tsp garlic granules
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp light brown soft sugar
• 1 tbsp malt vinegar
• 4 tbsp ketchup
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard or ½ tsp mustard powder
• 300ml beef stock
• 4 burger buns, split
• Chilli sauce, to serve (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat half the olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Crumble in the beef mince and fry for about 10 minutes, breaking it up with a wooden spoon and stirring until browned all over. Remove the mince from the pan and set aside on a plate.
2. Step 2: Add the remaining oil to the pan. Fry the chopped onion and green pepper for 6-8 minutes until softened. Sprinkle in the garlic granules, smoked paprika, and light brown sugar, then return the beef mince and any juices to the pan. Stir everything together and cook for 1-2 minutes to combine flavors.
3. Step 3: Pour in the malt vinegar and stir through the ketchup and Dijon mustard (or mustard powder). Pour over the beef stock, bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Let it bubble gently for 15-20 minutes until thick and glossy. Taste and season with salt or pepper if needed.
4. Step 4: Toast the burger buns in a hot pan. Spoon the sloppy joe mixture into each bun. Serve with chilli sauce if you like for an extra kick.

Tips & Variations

• Use lean beef mince to avoid excess grease in the mixture.
• For a smoky depth, add a dash of liquid smoke or use smoked paprika as suggested.
• Swap green pepper for red or yellow for a sweeter taste.
• Try adding finely chopped mushrooms for extra texture and nutrition.
• Serve with melted cheese on top for a gooey twist.

Storage

Allow the sloppy joe mixture to cool completely before storing in an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the cooled mixture in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to three months. Defrost overnight in the fridge before reheating gently in a pan until piping hot. Toast fresh buns when serving for best results.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative. Cooking times are similar, but the flavor may be milder, so you might want to adjust the seasoning accordingly.

Is there a vegetarian version of sloppy joes?

Absolutely. You can substitute the beef mince with lentils, chopped mushrooms, or plant-based mince to create a tasty vegetarian sloppy joe filling.

Homemade Sloppy Joes with Beef and Pepper Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 83 reviews

A classic and hearty sloppy joe recipe featuring minced beef cooked with onions, green pepper, and a tangy, smoky sauce. Served on toasted burger buns, this comforting meal is perfect for a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner.

• Author: Bella
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 400g beef mince
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 green pepper, finely chopped

Seasonings and Sauces

• 1 tsp garlic granules
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp light brown soft sugar
• 1 tbsp malt vinegar
• 4 tbsp ketchup
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard or 1⁄2 tsp mustard powder

Liquids and Others

• 300ml beef stock
• 4 burger buns, split
• Chilli sauce, to serve (optional)

Instructions

1. Brown the Beef: Heat half the olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat and crumble in the beef mince. Fry for about 10 minutes, breaking it up with a wooden spoon and stirring until it is browned all over. Once cooked, transfer the beef to a plate.
2. Cook Vegetables: In the same pan, heat the remaining olive oil and sauté the chopped onion and green pepper for 6 to 8 minutes until softened and fragrant.
3. Add Seasonings: Sprinkle in the garlic granules, smoked paprika, and light brown sugar. Return the browned beef along with any juices back into the pan. Stir everything together and cook for 1 to 2 minutes to combine the flavors.
4. Add Sauces and Liquids: Splash in the malt vinegar, then stir in the ketchup and Dijon mustard or mustard powder. Pour over the beef stock and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
5. Simmer the Mixture: Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce bubble gently for 15 to 20 minutes until thickened and glossy. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
6. Serve and Store: Toast the burger buns in a hot pan. Spoon the sloppy joe mixture onto the buns and top with optional chilli sauce if desired. To freeze, let the mixture cool completely, then store in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to three months. Defrost overnight in the fridge and reheat thoroughly before serving.

Notes

• To add extra flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat.
• The mixture thickens as it cools; reheat gently and stir to maintain a good consistency.
• For a healthier option, substitute beef mince with lean turkey mince or a plant-based mince alternative.
• Ensure buns are toasted to prevent sogginess from the sauce.
• Leftovers can be used as a filling for baked potatoes or served over rice for a different meal variety.

Keywords: sloppy joes, beef mince recipe, easy dinner, American comfort food, quick meals, burger filling