Sloppy Joes

Classic Sloppy Joes Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 small green bell pepper, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup (240ml) ketchup
• 1/4 cup (60ml) water
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp yellow mustard
• 1/2 tsp chili powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 4 hamburger buns

Instructions:

1. Cook the Beef:
   • Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
   • Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
   • Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
2. Add Vegetables:
   • Add the chopped onion and green bell pepper to the skillet.
   • Cook until the vegetables are soft, about 5 minutes.
   • Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Make the Sauce:
   • In a medium bowl, combine the ketchup, water, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, yellow mustard, chili powder, salt, and black pepper.
   • Pour the sauce mixture into the skillet with the beef and vegetables.
4. Simmer:
   • Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a simmer.
   • Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened.
5. Serve:
   • Toast the hamburger buns if desired.
   • Spoon the Sloppy Joe mixture onto the buns.
   • Serve immediately and enjoy!

Optional Additions and Variations:

• Cheese: Add a slice of cheese on top of the meat mixture before placing the top bun.
• Spicy Kick: Add a dash of hot sauce or some chopped jalapeños to the meat mixture.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef with a plant-based ground meat alternative.
• Sloppy Joe Sliders: Use smaller buns for a fun, party-friendly version.

Enjoy your homemade Sloppy Joes!