Why You’ll Love Old Fashioned Sloppy Joe Recipe Recipe

Old Fashioned Sloppy Joes are simple to make, deeply flavorful, and perfect for busy weeknights. The homemade sauce delivers a better taste and texture than canned versions, and the combination of savory meat with sweet and tangy notes will satisfy both kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1.5 pounds lean ground beef
1 bell pepper, diced
1 medium onion, diced
1 tablespoon Montreal steak seasoning
1 cup catsup
¼ cup brown sugar
1 tablespoon yellow mustard
Hamburger buns for serving

Directions

In a large skillet over medium‑high heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain off excess fat if desired.
Add the diced bell pepper, diced onion, and Montreal steak seasoning to the skillet. Sauté for about five minutes, or until the onions are transparent and the bell pepper is softened.
Stir in the catsup, brown sugar, and yellow mustard until well combined. Heat through so the sauce coats the beef mixture.
Scoop the sloppy joe mixture onto the hamburger buns and serve with sweet or dill pickles, if desired.

Servings and timing

Servings: About 8 sandwiches
Prep time: Approximately 5 minutes
Cook time: Around 15 minutes
Total time: Roughly 20 minutes

Variations

• Add Worcestershire sauce or a splash of apple cider vinegar for extra depth and tanginess.
• Include a pinch of hot sauce or diced jalapeños for a bit of heat.
• Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Top the sloppy joe filling with shredded cheese for a richer sandwich.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Cool completely and store leftovers in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
• Freezing: Place cooled sloppy joe mix in freezer‑safe containers for up to three months.
• Reheating: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, then reheat in a skillet over medium heat until hot throughout.

FAQs

What is a Sloppy Joe?

A Sloppy Joe is a hot sandwich made with ground meat cooked in a sweet and tangy tomato‑based sauce and served on a hamburger bun, known for its “messy” texture.

Can I make this recipe without bell peppers?

Yes — if you’re not a fan of bell peppers, you can skip them or substitute them with grated carrots or extra onions.

Can I use a different meat instead of ground beef?

Absolutely — ground turkey or chicken works well if you want a lighter option.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

Simmer the mixture uncovered a bit longer to reduce excess liquid, or stir in a small amount of cornstarch mixed with cold water to thicken.

What buns are best for Sloppy Joes?

Soft hamburger buns are classic, but you can also use brioche buns, slider rolls, or toasted buns for added texture.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes — you can cook the filling ahead and store it in the refrigerator, then reheat and serve when ready.

Is this recipe kid‑friendly?

Yes — many families find this version appealing to kids thanks to its familiar sweet and savory flavors.

How should leftovers be served?

Leftovers can be reheated and enjoyed on buns again, or served over baked potatoes or pasta.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes — sloppy joe filling freezes well for up to three months when stored properly.

What sides go well with Sloppy Joes?

Classic pairings include french fries, coleslaw, potato salad, or chips.

Conclusion

This Old Fashioned Sloppy Joe recipe delivers a delicious, homemade version of a true classic. With simple ingredients and quick prep, it’s an ideal choice for weeknight dinners, casual meals, or feeding a crowd. The balance of savory beef and tangy‑sweet sauce will make it a staple in your recipe rotation.