Homemade Sloppy Joes with Beef and Pepper Recipe
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.
- 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
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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
