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Classic Sweet & Tangy Sloppy Joes

Classic Sweet & Tangy Sloppy Joes deliver rich, saucy comfort in every bite. Tender ground beef simmers in a bold, sweet and tangy sauce that turns thick and glossy. Piled high on soft buns, this quick 30-minute favorite is the perfect cozy, family-friendly weeknight dinner.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 420
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Meat Mixture
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 small yellow onion diced
  • 1 small green bell pepper diced
Sauce
  • 3/4 cup ketchup
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
For Serving
  • 4 hamburger buns soft

Equipment

  • Large Skillet
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Wooden Spoon

Method
 

  1. Dice the onion and green bell pepper into small even pieces.
  2. In a small bowl, combine the ketchup, tomato paste, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir until smooth.
  3. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook for 6 to 8 minutes, breaking it apart, until fully browned and no pink remains.
  4. Drain excess grease. Stir in the diced onion and green bell pepper and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened.
  5. Pour in the prepared sauce mixture. Add garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
  6. Simmer uncovered for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
  7. Spoon the sloppy joe mixture onto soft hamburger buns and serve warm.

Notes

This recipe can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The meat mixture also freezes well for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce.