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4.5 from 57 votes

Homemade Sloppy Joes

Homemade sloppy joes are super satisfying and come together with minimal effort. They’re a quick and easy weeknight dinner that’s sure to become a family favorite!

Prep Time
5 mins
Cook Time
5 mins
Total Time
35 mins
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ¼ cup plus 1 tablespoon water divided use
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small yellow onion diced
  • 1 small bell pepper any color, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce 
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • salt and pepper

Instructions

    Cup of Yum
  1. Place the raw ground beef in a bowl. 
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together the baking soda and 1 tablespoon of water. Pour this mixture over the ground beef along with 1 teaspoon salt and pepper. Massage everything into the meat with your hands or work it in with a spoon. Set aside to rest while you brown the vegetables.
  3. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil and add the onion and peppers. Saute until soft and the onion is translucent, about 3-5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
  4. Add the ground beef to the pan and cook, breaking up the ground beef as needed, until browned. 
  5. Add the remaining ¼ cup water, ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and mustard. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and simmer uncovered for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened.
  6. Taste for seasoning, adding more salt and pepper if desired.

Notes

  • This recipe doubles well to feed a crowd.
  • Homemade Sloppy Joes freeze well in a freezer-safe container.