This Easy Slow Cooker Sloppy Joes recipe is a breeze! You just toss ground beef, sauce, and spices into your slow cooker, and let it do all the work while you relax!
These Sloppy Joes are messy in the best way! I love piling them high on soft buns, and the flavors are oh-so-good. What’s better than a easy meal that makes you smile? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for the best flavor and fat content. For a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken works great too. They might have a slightly different texture but will be just as delicious!
Onion: A small onion adds great flavor. You can also use a shallot for a milder taste, or even skip it if you’re not a fan of onions. If you’re looking for a fresh twist, try green onions on top as a garnish.
Green Bell Pepper: This is optional, but it adds crunch and sweetness. You can swap it with any color bell pepper, or even zucchini if you want to sneak in some veggies without changing the flavor much.
Ketchup: The star of the sauce! If you’re low on ketchup, BBQ sauce can also add that sweet tanginess. For a healthier option, try low-sugar ketchup.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor in My Sloppy Joes?
To really enhance the flavors of your Sloppy Joes, browning the beef properly is key. Here’s how to do it:
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the beef; this helps to lock in the juices.
- Crumbly texture is important—use a spatula to break the beef into small pieces as it cooks. This allows it to absorb more flavors.
- Don’t rush the browning! Let it cook until it’s fully browned and no pink remains, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
After mixing everything in the slow cooker, make sure to stir occasionally if you can. This helps the flavors meld beautifully over the cooking time. Enjoy making these messy and tasty sandwiches!
How to Make Easy Slow Cooker Sloppy Joes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 small green bell pepper, finely chopped (optional)
- 1 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 6-8 hamburger buns
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep. You’ll need around 4 to 6 hours on low or 2 to 3 hours on high for cooking. After that, you’ll be ready to dig into some tasty Sloppy Joes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Ground Beef:
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until no longer pink, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Remember to break it up with a spatula into crumbles as it cooks. Once it’s browned, drain the excess fat.
2. Load the Slow Cooker:
Now, transfer the browned beef into your slow cooker. This is where the magic happens! Add the finely chopped onion, optional bell pepper, ketchup, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, yellow mustard, brown sugar, garlic powder, chili powder (if using), and season with salt and pepper. Give it all a good stir so everything mixes well.
3. Cook Away:
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 4 to 6 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours. If you can, stir it occasionally to help the flavors combine even more!
4. Get Ready to Serve:
When it’s done cooking, stir the mixture well. Now it’s time to serve! Spoon the hearty sloppy joe filling onto hamburger buns. You can also add your favorite toppings like pickles, cheese, or even some crunchy coleslaw for extra texture.
5. Enjoy!
Dig in and enjoy your easy, comforting slow cooker sloppy joes! They’re perfect for a family dinner or a casual get-together!
Frequently Asked Questions about Easy Slow Cooker Sloppy Joes
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground beef and will work well in this recipe. Just keep in mind that it may be a bit leaner, so consider adding a tablespoon of oil for added moisture while browning.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Sloppy Joe mixture in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Can I Freeze Sloppy Joe Mixture?
Yes, you can freeze it! Allow the mixture to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove or microwave.
What Can I Serve with Sloppy Joes?
Sloppy Joes are delicious on their own, but you can pair them with a variety of sides! Consider serving with potato chips, coleslaw, or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal.
