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.

Ingredients

Scale

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

Instructions

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.
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.
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.
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