Slow Cooker Sloppy Joes

🥘 Slow Cooker Sloppy Joes

Description

These Slow Cooker Sloppy Joes are a classic American comfort food made easy! Ground beef simmered in a tangy, slightly sweet tomato sauce, infused with onions, peppers, and spices — all slowly cooked to perfection. Perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or game-day gatherings, this recipe delivers deep flavor and melt-in-your-mouth tenderness.

Ingredients

Serves: 6–8

🧄 Main Ingredients

• 2 lbs (900 g) ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter version)

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

• 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup ketchup

• 2 tbsp tomato paste

• 1/4 cup brown sugar (light or dark)

• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

• 1 tbsp yellow mustard

• 1 tsp chili powder

• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for depth)

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• 1/2 cup water or beef broth

🍔 To Serve

• 6–8 hamburger buns

• Optional toppings: pickles, shredded cheese, coleslaw

Instructions

1. Brown the Meat:
   In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat.

2. Add Veggies:
   Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the pan. Cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.

3. Transfer to Slow Cooker:
   Pour the meat and veggie mixture into your slow cooker.

4. Mix the Sauce:
   Add ketchup, tomato paste, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, chili powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and broth. Stir well to combine.

5. Slow Cook:

   • Cook on Low for 6–8 hours, or High for 3–4 hours.

   • Stir occasionally if possible.

6. Serve:
   Spoon the mixture onto toasted hamburger buns. Add optional toppings and serve warm.

Notes

• For leaner options, use 90% lean ground beef or ground turkey.

• Add a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.

• If the sauce is too thin, remove the slow cooker lid for the last 30 minutes to thicken.

• Can be made ahead of time — refrigerate up to 3 days or freeze for 3 months.

Chef’s Tips

• Toast the buns lightly to prevent sogginess.

• Double the batch and freeze half for later.

• Try brioche buns for a richer flavor.

• Add a splash of apple cider vinegar for tanginess.

• To make it vegetarian: use lentils, crumbled tempeh, or plant-based ground meat.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with:

  • Coleslaw

  • Baked beans

  • Sweet potato fries

  • Corn on the cob

• Perfect for:

  • Family dinners

  • Picnics

  • Potlucks

  • Game days

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

(Based on 6 servings)

(Values vary depending on ingredients and portion size.)

Health Benefits

• Protein-rich: Supports muscle repair and energy.

• Lycopene from tomatoes: Promotes heart health and may reduce inflammation.

• Customizable: Easily adjustable for low-sugar or low-sodium diets.

• Convenient: Hands-free slow cooking saves time and reduces stress.

Q&A Section

Q1: Can I make this ahead of time?
✅ Yes! Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge or freeze up to 3 months. Reheat in a saucepan or microwave.

Q2: Can I use chicken or turkey instead of beef?
✅ Absolutely. Ground turkey or chicken makes it leaner while keeping the same great flavor.

Q3: How can I thicken the sauce?
✅ Cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes or add a small slurry of cornstarch (1 tsp cornstarch + 2 tsp water).

Q4: What’s the best way to freeze it?
✅ Cool completely, transfer to freezer-safe bags or containers, and label. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Q5: Can I make this spicy?
✅ Add a diced jalapeño, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or use spicy ketchup for a kick!