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Cozy Crowd Sloppy Joes

Looking for a delicious twist for your next casual gathering? These Sloppy Joes are a fun, flavorful option that’s perfect for potlucks and game-day spreads. Tender ground beef cooked with savory spices and a rich, tangy sauce is piled onto warm toasted buns, ready to feed a hungry crowd. Make it on the stovetop and then transfer to a crockpot to keep warm—an easy, crowd-pleasing meal that adds variety to any spread.
Print Recipe
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, seeds and ribs removed, diced
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 2 cloves garlic, crushed
  • 1 tbsp chili powder
  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tbsp yellow mustard
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • Kosher salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • 1.5 lb ground beef
  • 1 cup canned tomato sauce
  • 6 hamburger buns, toasted

Method
 

  1. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, warm the oil and add the onion and bell pepper. Let them cook, stirring now and then, until softened and just beginning to turn golden, about 10–15 minutes.
  2. Add the ketchup and cook, stirring occasionally, until it deepens in color and reduces into a thick, rich paste, about 7 to 10 minutes.
  3. Stir in the garlic and chili powder and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the vinegar, mustard, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce, then season with salt and pepper. Continue cooking, stirring frequently, until everything is well combined, about 1 minute longer.
  4. Turn the heat up to high and add the ground beef. Use a fork to break it apart, making sure there are no large pieces left. Cook, stirring often, until the beef is fully browned, about 5 minutes.
  5. Stir in the tomato sauce and bring the mixture to a boil, making sure everything is well combined. Remove from the heat and let it cool slightly, then taste and season with salt if needed.
  6. Spoon the beef mixture onto the buns and serve.