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The Ultimate Classic Sloppy Joe

A nostalgic and quick sandwich featuring lean ground beef simmered in a sweet and tangy, thick, gooey, viscous tomato sauce.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 8 sandwiches
Course: Dinner, Lunch, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Calories: 380
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Sloppy Joe Filling
  • 1.5 lbs lean ground beef 85/15 recommended
  • 1 medium yellow onion finely chopped
  • 0.5 medium green bell pepper finely chopped (optional)
  • 1 can tomato sauce 15 oz
  • 0.25 cup ketchup
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar packed
  • 1 tbsp yellow mustard
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 0.5 tsp salt
  • 0.25 tsp black pepper
  • 0.5 cup water or beef broth
For Serving
  • 8 soft brioche buns or potato rolls lightly toasted

Equipment

  • Large skillet or Dutch oven
  • Wooden spoon or spatula

Method
 

  1. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet. Drain excess fat.
  2. Add chopped onion and bell pepper (if using). Sauté for 5-7 minutes until soft.
  3. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute.
  4. Stir in tomato sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and water/broth.
  5. Bring to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat to low and simmer, uncovered, for 10-15 minutes until the sauce reduces and thickens to a heavy, gooey, viscous consistency.
  6. Adjust seasonings as needed (salt, sugar, or vinegar for tang).
  7. Spoon filling onto lightly toasted soft buns and serve immediately.

Notes

Simmering time is key to achieving the thick, gooey, viscous texture. Drain excess fat for the best sauce. Use a soft bun to complement the filling.