Slow Cooker Sloppy Joes are a timeless, comforting dish that combines the savory flavors of seasoned ground beef with a tangy, slightly sweet tomato sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, game days, or casual gatherings, these Sloppy Joes are easy to prepare and cook to perfection in your slow cooker. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe and explore some variations to suit different dietary preferences.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup green bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1 1/2 cups tomato sauce
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp mustard
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 6 hamburger buns
Instructions
- Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
- Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker: Transfer the browned ground beef to the slow cooker. Add the finely chopped onion, green bell pepper, tomato sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, mustard, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the flavors are well blended and the vegetables are tender.
- Toast the Buns: If desired, lightly toast the hamburger buns before serving. This helps to prevent them from getting too soggy from the Sloppy Joe mixture.
- Serve: Spoon the Sloppy Joe mixture onto the bottom half of each hamburger bun. Top with the other half of the bun and serve hot. Enjoy your delicious homemade Sloppy Joes!
Cooking Notes and Tips
- Meat Options: You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative to suit your preference.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables such as carrots, celery, or mushrooms to the mixture for added flavor and nutrition.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve your Sloppy Joes with a side of coleslaw, potato salad, or baked beans for a complete meal.
Variations
Keto Version
To make this dish keto-friendly:
- Replace the brown sugar with a keto-friendly sweetener like erythritol or stevia.
- Use low-carb ketchup.
- Serve the Sloppy Joe mixture in lettuce wraps or over a bed of cauliflower rice instead of hamburger buns.
Low-Carb Version
For a low-carb version:
- Use a smaller amount of brown sugar or substitute with a low-carb sweetener.
- Opt for whole-grain or low-carb hamburger buns.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the Sloppy Joe mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the slow cooker or on the stovetop before serving.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.
Q: Can I freeze the Sloppy Joe mixture? A: Yes, you can freeze the cooked Sloppy Joe mixture. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Q: Can I use a different type of meat? A: Yes, ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based meat substitute can be used in place of ground beef.
Q: What toppings can I add to the Sloppy Joes? A: You can add toppings like shredded cheese, pickles, or coleslaw to your Sloppy Joes for extra flavor and texture.
These Slow Cooker Sloppy Joes are a delicious and easy meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With minimal preparation and the convenience of a slow cooker, this recipe allows you to enjoy a classic comfort food with minimal effort. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or try the keto and low-carb variations, these Sloppy Joes are sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy making and savoring this delightful dish!
