This Easy Slow Cooker Sloppy Joes recipe is a winner for busy days! You get tender ground beef in a sweet and tangy sauce, all simmered to perfection in your slow cooker.
It’s super simple—just throw everything in, let it cook, and enjoy! I love serving these on soft buns with a side of chips. Trust me, you’ll be going for seconds! 🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Use 80/20 lean to allow for great flavor without excessive grease. If you prefer a healthier option, ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat work well too.
Onion: A medium onion adds nice depth and sweetness. You could swap it for shallots or use onion powder if you want to skip chopping.
Green Bell Pepper: This is optional and adds a crunchy texture. If you’re not a fan of peppers, try using diced carrots for some added sweetness.
Tomato Sauce: The base of the sauce. You can replace it with crushed tomatoes for a chunkier texture or diced tomatoes if you prefer more substance.
Ketchup: This adds sweetness to the mixture. In a pinch, substitute with barbecue sauce for an interesting twist!
How Do You Get the Perfect Sauce Consistency?
For a great sloppy joe sauce, it’s essential to balance flavors and achieve the right thickness. Here are a few tips:
- Mix the sauce ingredients thoroughly before adding to the beef to ensure even flavor distribution.
- Adjust the thickness by adding more tomato sauce or ketchup if necessary. If it’s too thick, a splash of beef broth can help thin it out.
- Letting the mixture cook longer can also deepen the flavor and enhance the sauce’s consistency.
Cooking in a slow cooker allows the flavors to meld beautifully, so don’t rush it! Enjoy your meal with your favorite toppings!
How to Make Easy Slow Cooker Sloppy Joes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 green bell pepper, finely chopped (optional)
- 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 6 hamburger buns, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 4 to 6 hours of cooking time in the slow cooker. You can set it and forget it, making dinner a breeze!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Beef:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook it until it’s browned, while breaking it up with a spoon. Once browned, drain any excess fat from the skillet to avoid greasy sloppy joes.
2. Prepare the Slow Cooker:
Transfer the browned beef to your slow cooker. Add the finely chopped onion and green bell pepper if you’re using it. These veggies will add great flavor and texture!
3. Mix the Sauce:
In a mixing bowl, combine the tomato sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, yellow mustard, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, chili powder (if you like it spicy), salt, and pepper. Stir it all together until well mixed.
4. Combine and Cook:
Pour the sauce mixture over the beef and veggies in the slow cooker. Stir everything together until the beef is well coated with the sauce. Cover the slow cooker with the lid.
5. Slow Cook to Perfection:
Cook on low for 4 to 6 hours. If you can, stir occasionally to help blend the flavors, but it’s not necessary! The beef will become tender and all the flavors will meld beautifully.
6. Serve the Sloppy Joes:
When you’re ready to eat, scoop the sloppy joe mixture onto the hamburger buns. Feel free to get generous with the meat!
7. Optional Toppings:
Whether you like pickles, cheese slices, or even a side of chips, feel free to add your favorite toppings for a delicious meal!
Enjoy your easy, flavorful sloppy joes made effortlessly in the slow cooker! Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
FAQ for Easy Slow Cooker Sloppy Joes
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for a leaner option. Just note that turkey may require a bit more seasoning to achieve a similar flavor profile as beef.
How Do I Store Leftover Sloppy Joes?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.
Can I Freeze the Sloppy Joe Mixture?
Yes! The sloppy joe mixture freezes well. Make sure it’s cooled completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What Can I Serve with Sloppy Joes?
Sloppy Joes are great served with classic sides like potato chips, coleslaw, or a simple green salad. You can also add toppings like cheese or jalapeños for extra flavor!
