Stovetop Sloppy Joes
These Stovetop Sloppy Joes offer a comforting hug in a bun, with a depth of flavor that a canned sauce simply cannot match. By using fresh aromatics and a perfectly balanced homemade sauce, we transform a humble childhood staple into a gourmet weeknight victory.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef (90/10)
- 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
- 1 medium green bell pepper, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3/4 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup water or beef broth
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 4 to 6 hamburger buns
- 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions
- Sauté the diced onion and green bell pepper in a large skillet over medium heat for about 3 to 4 minutes until softened.
- Increase heat to medium-high and add the ground beef, breaking it into small crumbles and cooking until browned.
- Drain excess fat from the pan if necessary.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 to 60 seconds until fragrant.
- Lower heat to medium and add ketchup, water (or broth), brown sugar, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly.
- Let the mixture simmer for 5 to 10 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- While simmering, butter the insides of the hamburger buns and toast them until golden brown.
- Assemble the Sloppy Joes by spooning the mixture onto the toasted buns and serve immediately.
Notes
To achieve the best texture, toast the buns to prevent sogginess. Let the sauce simmer long enough to deepen the flavor.