Sloppy Joes

 

Ingredients:

1 lb ground beef (you can use ground turkey or chicken as a substitute)

1 small onion, finely chopped

1 green bell pepper, finely chopped (optional)

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup ketchup

2 tbsp tomato paste

2 tbsp yellow mustard

2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (or white vinegar)

2 tbsp brown sugar (or to taste)

1 tsp chili powder

1 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for a smoky flavor)

1/2 tsp salt

1/4 tsp black pepper

1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

4 hamburger buns (or sandwich rolls)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Ground Beef:

In a large skillet or frying pan, heat a bit of oil (or use some of the fat from the beef) over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if needed.

2. Sauté the Veggies:

Add the chopped onion, bell pepper (if using), and garlic to the pan with the cooked beef. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until the vegetables soften and become fragrant.

3. Make the Sauce:

Add the ketchup, tomato paste, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, vinegar, brown sugar, chili powder, smoked paprika (if using), salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir everything together and bring to a simmer.

Let the mixture cook on low heat for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to a sloppy consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more sugar, vinegar, or spices as desired.

4. Assemble the Sloppy Joes:

Toast the hamburger buns lightly if you prefer. Spoon the Sloppy Joe mixture generously onto the bottom half of each bun, then top with the other half of the bun.