This Easy Slow Cooker Sloppy Joes recipe is a family favorite! It features tasty ground beef cooked with sweet and tangy sauce, all served on soft buns. Perfect for busy days!
I love how simple it is to throw everything in the slow cooker and let it do the work. It makes dinner time a breeze, and who doesn’t love a good messy sandwich? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a less greasy option. If you prefer leaner meats, ground turkey or chicken can work just as well. I often go for ground turkey as it’s a bit healthier and still gives a nice flavor.
Onion: A small onion adds flavor, but you can skip it or substitute with garlic if you’re not a fan of onions. Shallots are a milder option too if you want something less intense.
Green Bell Pepper: This is optional, but it adds a nice crunch. If you don’t have it, chopped celery can be a good substitute for a different texture. For a bit of spice, try using diced jalapeños!
Ketchup: The ketchup gives sweetness and tang. If you want a healthier option, sugar-free ketchup or barbecue sauce can be used instead. I sometimes mix in a bit of sriracha for a kick!
Brown Sugar: This balances the acidity. If you’re avoiding sugar, honey or maple syrup can serve as a natural sweetener. You may need to adjust the amount depending on your taste.
How Do You Ensure the Best Flavor in Your Sloppy Joes?
The key to flavorful Sloppy Joes lies not only in the right ingredients but also in how you cook them. Here are a few tips:
- Always brown the ground beef first! It builds a depth of flavor. Don’t skip this step, as it adds richness.
- Mix your sauce ingredients well to combine flavors before adding them to the slow cooker.
- Cook on low for richer flavor. If you’re in a hurry, high works too, but low and slow gives a nice texture and taste.
- Stir occasionally to mix everything. The longer it cooks, the more the flavors meld.
With these tips, your Sloppy Joes will be delicious and satisfying every time! Enjoy making this easy meal!
Easy Slow Cooker Sloppy Joes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sloppy Joe Mixture:
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 small green bell pepper, diced (optional)
- 1 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or white vinegar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon mustard (yellow or Dijon)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Serving:
- 6 hamburger buns
How Much Time Will You Need?
This savory meal requires about 15 minutes of prep time, with a cooking time of 4 to 6 hours on low or 2 to 3 hours on high in the slow cooker. So, you can set it and forget it! Perfect for busy days or when you want an easy dinner option.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Beef:
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook it until it’s no longer pink. Break it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Once done, drain any excess fat to keep your Sloppy Joes from being greasy.
2. Add Veggies:
Transfer the cooked beef to your slow cooker. Toss in the finely chopped onion and the diced green bell pepper (if you like). They add a nice crunch and flavor!
3. Mix the Sauce:
In a separate bowl, combine the ketchup, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, vinegar, brown sugar, mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed.
4. Combine Everything:
Pour the sauce mixture over the beef and vegetables in the slow cooker. Give it a good stir to make sure everything is coated in the delicious sauce.
5. Slow Cook:
Cover your slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 4–6 hours or on high for 2–3 hours. If you can, stir occasionally to help the flavors blend even more.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
When the cooking time is up, spoon the sloppy joe mixture onto hamburger buns. Serve them warm, and enjoy a tasty, comforting meal!
FAQ for Easy Slow Cooker Sloppy Joes
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great leaner alternative. Just be sure to brown it well before adding it to the slow cooker for the best flavor!
What Can I Use Instead of Ketchup?
If you don’t have ketchup, you can substitute it with barbecue sauce for a different flavor profile. You might also try crushed tomatoes mixed with a little sugar for sweetness.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! You can replace the ground beef with lentils, crumbled tofu, or a meat substitute like plant-based ground meat. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure your meat substitute is heated through.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
