Slow Cooker Sloppy Joes Recipe

Introduction

Slow Cooker Sloppy Joes are a comforting and hands-off meal perfect for busy days. This recipe combines savory ground beef with a tangy tomato sauce, slow-cooked to develop rich, hearty flavors. Serve them piled high on toasted buns for an easy family favorite.

Ingredients

• 1 lb. ground beef (7% fat recommended, but any works)
• 1 yellow onion, diced
• 1 green or red bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup ketchup
• 8 oz. can tomato sauce (NOT paste)
• 2 Tbsp. mustard
• 1 tsp. apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp. Worcestershire sauce
• 3/4 tsp. salt
• 1/4 tsp. pepper
• 1/4 tsp. garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp. chili powder
• 1 Tbsp. brown sugar

Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, diced onion, and diced bell pepper. Cook until the beef is browned and crumbled, and the vegetables are softened. Drain excess fat if needed.
2. Step 2: Transfer the beef, onion, and bell pepper mixture to your slow cooker. Add ketchup, tomato sauce, mustard, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, garlic powder, chili powder, and brown sugar.
3. Step 3: Stir everything to combine well, then cover with the lid.
4. Step 4: Cook on HIGH for 2 hours or LOW for 3 hours. Check occasionally and stir if the mixture starts sticking or browning around the edges.
5. Step 5: Toast your buns and spoon the Sloppy Joe mixture onto them. Add cheese and pickles if desired before serving.

Tips & Variations

• For a thicker sauce, let the mixture cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes to reduce excess liquid.
• Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• Add a dash of hot sauce or smoked paprika for extra heat and depth of flavor.
• Top with shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheese for a melty finish.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through. The mixture can also be frozen for up to 3 months—thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare this recipe without a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make Sloppy Joes on the stovetop by simmering the sauce over low heat for about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally until thickened.

What can I serve with Sloppy Joes?

Classic sides include coleslaw, potato chips, baked beans, or a simple green salad for a balanced meal.

Slow Cooker Sloppy Joes Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 84 reviews

• Author: Isabella
• Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes to 3 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

This Slow Cooker Sloppy Joes recipe is a hearty and comforting meal perfect for busy days. Ground beef is browned with onions and bell peppers, then slow-cooked with a tangy and slightly sweet sauce made from ketchup, tomato sauce, mustard, and spices. The result is a flavorful, saucy filling that’s great piled onto toasted buns for an easy and satisfying sandwich.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Meat and Vegetables

• 1 lb. ground beef (7% fat preferred)
• 1 yellow onion, diced
• 1 green or red bell pepper, diced

Sauce

• 1 cup ketchup
• 8 oz. can tomato sauce (NOT paste)
• 2 Tbsp. mustard
• 1 tsp. apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp. Worcestershire sauce
• 3/4 tsp. salt
• 1/4 tsp. pepper
• 1/4 tsp. garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp. chili powder
• 1 Tbsp. brown sugar

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Instructions

1. Brown the Meat and Vegetables: Heat a large skillet on medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, diced onion, and diced bell pepper. Cook until the beef is browned and crumbled, and the vegetables are softened. Drain excess fat if necessary, especially if the beef is very fatty.
2. Transfer to Slow Cooker and Add Sauce: Place the browned beef mixture into your slow cooker. Add the ketchup, tomato sauce, mustard, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, garlic powder, chili powder, and brown sugar. Stir everything together to combine evenly.
3. Cook Slow and Low: Cover the slow cooker with its lid. Cook on the HIGH setting for 2 hours or on LOW for 3 hours. Stir occasionally if the mixture looks like it might stick or burn at the edges.
4. Prepare to Serve: Toast your sandwich buns lightly to add texture and prevent sogginess. Spoon the hot sloppy joe mixture generously onto the buns.
5. Add Toppings and Serve: Top your sandwiches optionally with cheese slices, pickles, or any preferred toppings. Serve immediately to enjoy the warm and flavorful sloppy joes.

Notes

• Choosing 7% fat ground beef helps reduce grease and keeps the sandwich less oily.
• Drain excess fat after browning the meat to ensure a better texture and taste.
• Use tomato sauce, not paste, for the correct sauce consistency.
• Toast buns before assembling to prevent sogginess from the sauce.
• You can customize toppings: cheese, pickles, or even a dash of hot sauce for more kick.
• If using a slow cooker with different settings, adjust cooking times accordingly, making sure the beef is fully heated and sauce thickened.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 2 to 3 hours
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: Sloppy Joes, Slow Cooker Recipes, Ground Beef Sandwich, Comfort Food, Easy Dinner