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comforting childhood sloppy joes

Sloppy Joes

These classic Sloppy Joes feature a perfect balance of savory ground beef in a sweet-tangy sauce that simmers to perfection. Made with simple pantry staples, this nostalgic sandwich delivers that unmistakable comfort food experience that's both messy and utterly satisfying.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings: 8 sandwiches
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tablespoons white vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
  • ¾ cup ketchup
  • 1 small onion chopped
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1½ pounds ground round lean ground beef
  • 8 hamburger buns or kaiser rolls for serving

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Wooden spoon
  • Mixing bowl

Method
 

  1. Brown the ground round in a large skillet over medium heat for 7-8 minutes, breaking up the meat with a wooden spoon as it cooks.
  2. Drain off any excess fat from the skillet.
  3. Return the skillet to the heat and add the chopped onion and salt. Cook for about 5 minutes until the onions soften and become translucent.
  4. In a bowl, combine the ketchup, mustard, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and sugar. Stir well to blend the sauce ingredients.
  5. Pour the sauce mixture into the skillet with the meat and onions, stirring well to coat everything evenly.
  6. Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 1 hour, stirring occasionally. The sauce will thicken slightly as it cooks.
  7. Serve the hot Sloppy Joe mixture on hamburger buns or kaiser rolls.

Notes

For best results, warm the buns before serving - either with a quick toast in the oven or a few seconds in the microwave. This helps them hold up better to the saucy mixture.
This recipe can be easily adapted with ground turkey for a leaner option, or try adding diced bell peppers or grated carrots for extra vegetables.
Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and actually taste even better as the flavors continue to develop. The meat mixture also freezes well for up to 3 months.