Classic Sloppy Joes

5.0(1672)

This simple version of sloppy Joes, the classic sandwich served in school cafeterias and at kitchen counters across the country, comes together in about 20 minutes and can be made with ground beef, chicken or turkey. As the name suggests, they are messy, so serve with a fork and plenty of napkins.

by Marian Burros·published 1989-07-26

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Dinner, Easy, Lunch, Weeknight, Burgers, Main Course

Servings

6 servings

Total time

22 min

prep 10 min

Calories / serving

346 kcal

Ingredients (13)

serves

1 8-ounce can tomato sauce
1/2 cup ketchupketchup
1 1/2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauceworcestershire
1 teaspoon prepared yellow mustardmustard
1/2 teaspoon dry mustardmustard
1 teaspoon molassesmolasses
1 garlic clove, finely mincedgarlic
1/4 teaspoon orange zestorange
Pinch of ground clovesclove
Hot sauce to tastehot-sauce
1 pound ground beefground-beef
1/2 small onion, finely choppedonion
6 whole-wheat hamburger buns, toasted if desired

Instructions (3 steps)

01In a saucepan over low heat combine the sauce ingredients. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Mix well, and simmer while preparing the meat.
02Heat a heavy nonstick or cast-iron skillet, at least 10 inches in diameter, over medium-high heat. Add the ground sirloin, and saute, stirring occasionally, for 4 to 5 minutes, or until the meat is no longer pink. Turn the meat into a strainer or colander lined with paper towels, allowing the fat to drain off.

03Add the onion to the pan, and sauté, stirring frequently, for about 5 minutes, or until the onion is translucent. Return the meat to the pan, and add the sauce. Heat for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Taste and season with salt, pepper or more hot sauce, if desired. Spoon 1/2 cup of the mixture over each bun. Serve immediately.

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Rich recipe — supports nutrition-aware planning.