This Easy Slow Cooker Sloppy Joes recipe makes a tasty meal without much fuss! Just toss ground beef, sauce, and spices into the slow cooker, and let it do the work.
Perfect for busy days when you want comfort food! I love serving these on soft buns with extra pickles. Who doesn’t enjoy a messy but delicious sandwich? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the main protein. You can use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. I’ve found that a mix of lean and fatty ground beef gives a great flavor, but if you’re cutting fat, go lean.
Onion & Bell Pepper: These add sweetness and flavor. If you’re not a fan of bell peppers, skip them or use some finely chopped celery instead. You can also try using red or yellow onions for a different taste.
Tomato Sauce & Ketchup: These are your base sauces. For a twist, consider using barbecue sauce or salsa instead of ketchup. If avoiding sugar is important, check for sugar-free options or use crushed tomatoes with spices.
Brown Sugar: This balances acidity. If you prefer not to use sugar, you can substitute with honey or maple syrup. A small amount of coconut sugar is also an option!
Spices: The spices add depth. Feel free to add a dash of smoked paprika or chili powder for extra flavor. Adjust the crushed red pepper to control heat levels to taste.
How Do I Make Sure My Sloppy Joes Turn Out Flavorful?
To enhance the flavor of your sloppy joes, follow these simple steps:
- Brown the beef thoroughly before adding it to the slow cooker. This step adds a nice depth of flavor.
- Don’t skip sautéing the onions and peppers if you can manage it! It releases their natural sweetness, improving the taste.
- Let the mixture cook for the full recommended time to let all the flavors blend together beautifully.
- Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Sometimes a pinch of extra salt or a splash of vinegar can brighten the dish!
Enjoy the process, and your sloppy joes will be a hit every time! 😊
Easy Slow Cooker Sloppy Joes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 small green bell pepper, finely chopped (optional)
- 1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce
- ½ cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for a little heat)
- Hamburger buns, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and then you can let the slow cooker do its magic. Cooking time is between 4 to 6 hours on low or 2 to 3 hours on high. So overall, you’ll need around 4 to 6.5 hours, depending on your cooking method! Perfect for a busy day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Beef:
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s nicely browned. Use a spoon to break it up into small pieces as it cooks. Once it’s done, make sure to drain any excess fat to keep things from being too greasy.
2. Add Ingredients to the Slow Cooker:
Now, transfer the browned beef to your slow cooker. Add in the chopped onion, green bell pepper (if you’re using it), tomato sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, yellow mustard, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes. Yum!
3. Mix it Up:
Stir everything together until it’s all combined well. It should look deliciously colorful!
4. Let it Cook:
Cover your slow cooker and set it to cook on low for about 4 to 6 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when everything is bubbly and the flavors meld beautifully.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Before serving, give it a good stir. Spoon the delicious sloppy joe mixture onto hamburger buns and enjoy them warm with your favorite sides like coleslaw or some crunchy chips!
Enjoy your easy, flavorful slow cooker sloppy joes! They’re perfect for family dinners, and so easy to make! 😊
FAQ for Easy Slow Cooker Sloppy Joes
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative to beef. Just be sure to monitor the cooking time since lighter meats may require a shorter cooking duration.
What Can I Use Instead of Ketchup?
If you’re looking for an alternative to ketchup, you can use barbecue sauce, salsa, or even a mixture of tomato paste and a bit of sugar. Each will give a different flavor twist to your sloppy joes!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover sloppy joe mixture in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it on the stove or in the microwave—just add a splash of water to keep it moist.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Sure! You can increase the crushed red pepper flakes or add diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the mix for an extra kick. Adjust to your taste for the perfect spice level!