Slow Cooker Sloppy Joes Recipe

Introduction

Slow Cooker Sloppy Joes are a comforting, easy-to-make classic that brings hearty flavors to your dinner table with minimal effort. This recipe lets the ingredients simmer together all day, resulting in a rich, savory filling perfect for sandwich night.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small onion (finely chopped)
• 1/2 cup green bell pepper (chopped)
• 1 cup ketchup
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon mustard
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 hamburger buns

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
2. Step 2: Add the cooked beef, chopped onion, and green bell pepper to the slow cooker. Pour in ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, mustard, garlic powder, and season with salt and pepper. Stir well to combine.
3. Step 3: Cover and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours, until flavors meld and vegetables are tender.
4. Step 4: Stir the mixture well, then spoon the sloppy joe filling onto hamburger buns and serve hot.

Tips & Variations

• For a spicier twist, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the mixture before cooking.
• Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version of this dish.
• Toast the hamburger buns for extra texture and flavor.
• Add a slice of cheese to the sandwich just before serving for a melty finish.

Storage

Store leftover sloppy joe filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally until warmed through. The mixture can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of meat for this recipe?

Yes, ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat substitutes work well as alternatives to ground beef in this slow cooker sloppy joes recipe.

Do I need to brown the meat before adding it to the slow cooker?

Browning the meat first helps develop richer flavor and prevents excess fat in the slow cooker. It’s recommended but not absolutely required if you’re short on time.

Slow Cooker Sloppy Joes Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 360 reviews

• Author: Marina
• Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes to 6 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

This Slow Cooker Sloppy Joes recipe is a classic comfort food made easy by using a slow cooker to develop rich and savory flavors. Ground beef is browned and then simmered with a mix of ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, mustard, and spices along with vegetables, resulting in a tender, flavorful filling perfect for sandwich buns. It’s a hassle-free meal ideal for busy days and family dinners.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Meat and Vegetables

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup green bell pepper, chopped

Sauce and Seasonings

• 1 cup ketchup
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon mustard
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Bread

• 4 hamburger buns

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Instructions

1. Brown the Meat: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it is fully browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain off any excess fat to keep the filling from becoming greasy.
2. Combine Ingredients: Transfer the browned ground beef to the slow cooker. Add the finely chopped onion and chopped green bell pepper. Pour in the ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, mustard, and sprinkle garlic powder. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together thoroughly to mix all flavors.
3. Cook the Sloppy Joes: Cover the slow cooker with the lid and set it to the low setting. Allow the mixture to cook for 4 to 6 hours. This slow cooking process lets the flavors meld together and the vegetables soften, resulting in a rich and hearty filling.
4. Serve: When finished cooking, stir the sloppy joe mixture well. Spoon the hot filling onto hamburger buns and serve immediately for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Notes

• You can brown the ground beef a day ahead to save time on the cooking day.
• For extra flavor, add a dash of smoked paprika or chili powder along with the spices.
• If you prefer a thicker sauce, cook it uncovered on high for the last 30 minutes.
• Serve with a side of coleslaw or pickles for added crunch and flavor contrast.
• Leftover sloppy joe mixture can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 4 to 6 hours
• Category: Lunch
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: sloppy joes, slow cooker sloppy joes, ground beef recipe, easy lunch recipe, crockpot sloppy joes, comfort food