ingredients list
Ingredients for Sloppy Joes Crock Pot Recipe:
- 1 ½ pounds of ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cup of ketchup
- 2 tablespoons of tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon of yellow mustard
- 2 tablespoons of brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon of smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon of chili powder (optional, for a slight kick)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- ½ cup of water or beef broth
- 6-8 hamburger buns, for serving
Optional Toppings:
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Dill pickle slices
- Sliced jalapeños
- Coleslaw
These ingredients come together to create a rich, flavorful filling for your Sloppy Joes. Feel free to adjust the seasonings or toppings to suit your taste preferences!
step-by-step instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Sloppy Joes in the Crock Pot:
- Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it is browned and fully cooked. Use a wooden spoon to break the meat into small crumbles as it cooks. Once done, drain any excess grease and transfer the cooked beef to your crock pot.
- Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion, diced green bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and fragrant. This step enhances the flavor of the dish. Once cooked, add the vegetables to the crock pot with the ground beef.
- Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
In a medium bowl, whisk together the ketchup, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, yellow mustard, brown sugar, smoked paprika, chili powder (if using), and water or beef broth. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Pour the sauce over the beef and vegetable mixture in the crock pot.
- Step 4: Mix and Cook
Gently stir the ingredients in the crock pot to ensure the sauce evenly coats the beef and vegetables. Cover the crock pot with its lid and set it to cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to ensure the flavors meld together beautifully.
- Step 5: Adjust Seasoning
About 30 minutes before serving, taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add salt and black pepper to taste, or a bit more chili powder if you prefer extra heat.
Once the cooking time is complete, your Sloppy Joe mixture will be thick, rich, and bursting with flavor, ready to be served on your favorite hamburger buns!
serving suggestions
Serving Suggestions for Sloppy Joes:
Sloppy Joes are a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways to suit any occasion. Here are some ideas to elevate your meal and make it even more enjoyable:
- Classic Style: Spoon a generous portion of the Sloppy Joe mixture onto a toasted hamburger bun. For added texture, lightly butter the buns and toast them on a skillet or under a broiler until golden brown. Top with shredded cheddar cheese for a melty, savory finish.
- Open-Faced: For a less messy option, serve the Sloppy Joe mixture open-faced on a single slice of toasted bread or bun. This is a great way to enjoy the flavors without worrying about the filling spilling out.
- Sloppy Joe Sliders: Use small slider buns to create mini versions of this classic dish. These are perfect for parties, game days, or as a fun option for kids. Add a pickle slice or a dollop of coleslaw on top for extra flavor.
- Over Rice or Mashed Potatoes: For a hearty, comfort-food twist, serve the Sloppy Joe mixture over a bed of fluffy white rice or creamy mashed potatoes. This option is great for those who prefer to skip the bread.
- Stuffed Bell Peppers: Hollow out large bell peppers and fill them with the Sloppy Joe mixture. Bake in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the peppers are tender. Top with cheese and bake for an additional 5 minutes for a delicious, low-carb alternative.
- Loaded Baked Potatoes: Split open a baked potato and pile on the Sloppy Joe mixture. Sprinkle with shredded cheese, sour cream, and chives for a loaded potato experience that’s both filling and flavorful.
- With a Side of Crunch: Pair your Sloppy Joes with a side of crispy potato chips, sweet potato fries, or a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the dish.
- Kid-Friendly Option: For younger eaters, serve the Sloppy Joe mixture in a hot dog bun or wrap it in a soft tortilla for a less messy, handheld option.
Feel free to get creative with your toppings and sides. Whether you prefer a classic approach or a unique twist, these serving suggestions will help you enjoy your Sloppy Joes to the fullest!