Prepare to dive into the ultimate comfort food that will have your taste buds dancing and your family begging for seconds! These Sloppy Joes aren't just another boring weeknight dinner - they're a flavor explosion that transforms humble ground beef into a mouthwatering masterpiece. With a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory notes, Callie Carlson's legendary recipe will turn an ordinary meal into an extraordinary culinary experience that'll have everyone at the table fighting for the last bite!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped
- 1/2 cup green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 4 hamburger buns
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all ingredients and preparing your cooking workspace. Ensure all vegetables are washed and chopped finely.
- Place a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and break it apart using a wooden spatula or cooking utensil.
- Cook the ground beef for approximately 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently to ensure even browning and complete separation of meat.
- Once the beef is mostly browned, add chopped onions and green bell peppers to the skillet. Sauté together for 3-4 minutes until vegetables become slightly soft and translucent.
- Drain any excess fat from the meat and vegetable mixture to reduce greasiness.
- Reduce heat to medium-low and add ketchup, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients.
- Simmer the mixture for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the sauce to thicken and flavors to meld together.
- While the meat mixture is simmering, lightly toast the hamburger buns for added texture and warmth.
- Taste the Sloppy Joe mixture and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
- Spoon the hot meat mixture generously onto the prepared hamburger buns, ensuring an even distribution.
- Serve immediately while the Sloppy Joes are hot and sauce is still steaming.
Tips
- Choose lean ground beef (80/20 ratio) for the best flavor and texture without excessive grease.
- Ensure you chop onions and peppers uniformly for even cooking and distribution.
- Don't rush the simmering process - letting the sauce reduce helps intensify the flavors.
- For extra depth, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of smoked paprika.
- Toast your buns for a crispy texture that prevents the bread from getting soggy.
- If you want to make ahead, the Sloppy Joe mixture actually tastes better after the flavors meld overnight.
- Serve with a side of crispy pickles or coleslaw to balance the rich, saucy meat.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 70mg
