As summer rolls in and the days get longer, my grill tends to get a solid workout. Yet, there’s something about a cozy meal that draws me back inside, especially when I think of those delightful, messy sandwiches that everyone loves: sloppy joes. They hold a special place in my heart, and they pair perfectly with bright, crunchy coleslaw.
Imagine biting into a warm, savory sandwich while the tangy crunch of the coleslaw refreshes your palate. Yes, that’s the kind of meal that makes my taste buds dance. Today, I’m sharing my favorite slow cooker sloppy joes recipe. It’s a hands-off dish that offers deep flavors and satisfying textures—definitely ideal for family gatherings or a casual dinner night.
What Are Slow Cooker Sloppy Joes?
At its core, a sloppy joe is a dish made with ground meat (usually beef) mixed with a tangy, often sweet sauce, all piled high on a bun.
The slow cooker takes things to the next level by allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully while you do other things—like binge-watching your favorite show or enjoying a sunny afternoon outside. These sandwiches are hearty, messy in the best way, and utterly comforting.
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The Ingredients
To create a truly delicious slow cooker sloppy joe, you’ll need a few simple, yet tasty, ingredients. Here’s the lineup:
- 1 cup tomato ketchup
- 1 lb. lean ground beef (I prefer 7% fat, but any type will do)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
- 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
- 1 (8 oz.) can tomato sauce (make sure it’s sauce, not paste)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (adds subtle depth)
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 red or green bell pepper, chopped
- 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon packed brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (this boosts the savory flavor)
Gathering these ingredients is half the fun. Each one plays a role in creating that signature sloppy joe flavor!
How to Make Slow Cooker Sloppy Joes?
Making slow cooker sloppy joes is simple. You just throw everything in, let it cook, and voilà! The beauty of a slow cooker is that it handles the hard work while you enjoy a leisurely day. Now, let’s break it down step-by-step.
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients. Chop your bell pepper and onion, and measure out the spices. Having everything at the ready makes the process seamless.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef. Make sure to break it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Aim for no pink bits remaining, about 5-7 minutes is typical. Once browned, drain off any excess fat.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
Transfer the browned beef to your slow cooker. Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and all the other ingredients. Make sure to mix everything well, so each bite holds flavors from the sauce and veggies.
Step 4: Let It Cook
Set your slow cooker to low for 6-8 hours or high for about 3-4 hours. Whichever you choose, the goal is to let those flavors meld beautifully.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once the cooking time is up, stir the mixture. Taste it for seasoning, adjust if needed, and then serve it warm on soft burger buns. Don’t forget a napkin—it’s going to get a bit messy!
Notes
To ensure your slow cooker sloppy joes are a hit, consider these useful tips:
- Choose Lean Meat: Lean ground beef helps reduce grease. No one wants a soggy sandwich!
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh onions and peppers for better flavor. They’ll add a nice crunch too.
- Spice It Up: If you like a kick, consider adding some chopped jalapenos or a dash of hot sauce.
- Sauce Matters: Use quality ketchup. This is a foundational flavor and can make or break your dish.
- Let It Rest: After cooking, let the mixture sit for 10 minutes. This helps it thicken a bit.
Storage Tips
If you end up with leftovers (which is rare!), here’s how to store them:
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in a microwave or on the stove.
- Freezer: Sloppy joes freeze well. They can last up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Separate the Buns: Store buns separately to keep them from getting soggy.
Nutrition Information
Here’s a general breakdown of the nutrition per serving (based on 4 servings):
- Calories: 340
- Protein: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 12g
Always consult with a dietitian if you have specific dietary concerns.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving slow cooker sloppy joes, you have plenty of options. Here are some favorites:
1. Classic Coleslaw: The crunch from coleslaw balances the richness of the sloppy joes. Add a bit of apple cider vinegar for zing.
2. Sweet Potato Fries: These are a fantastic side with their natural sweetness and crispy texture.
3. Potato Salad: A creamy potato salad complements the flavors well, making it a crowd-pleaser.
4. Baked Beans: The sweetness of baked beans pairs perfectly with the savory sloppy joe, creating a delightful contrast.
5. Pickles: A side of pickles provides a tangy crunch that enhances each bite.
What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Slow Cooker Sloppy Joes?
If you’re looking to switch things up, several substitutes can add variety:
- Ground Turkey: A lean alternative that still offers delicious flavor. Adjust spices as necessary.
- Plant-Based Crumbles: For a vegetarian option, these provide a similar texture to meat.
- BBQ Sauce: Instead of ketchup, use BBQ sauce for a smoky sweetness that will impress.
- Chili Sauce: This adds depth and spice, perfect if you like your joes with a kick.
- Beans: Consider adding black beans or kidney beans for added fiber while reducing meat.
Slow Cooker Sloppy Joes
Equipment
- Slow Cooker
Ingredients
- 1 cup tomato ketchup
- 1 lb. lean ground beef I prefer 7% fat, but any type will do
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 medium yellow onion finely diced
- 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
- 1 8 oz. can tomato sauce (make sure it’s sauce, not paste)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika adds subtle depth
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 red or green bell pepper chopped
- 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon packed brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder this boosts the savory flavor
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
- Start by gathering all your ingredients. Chop your bell pepper and onion, and measure out the spices. Having everything at the ready makes the process seamless.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef. Make sure to break it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Aim for no pink bits remaining, about 5-7 minutes is typical. Once browned, drain off any excess fat.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
- Transfer the browned beef to your slow cooker. Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and all the other ingredients. Make sure to mix everything well, so each bite holds flavors from the sauce and veggies.
Step 4: Let It Cook
- Set your slow cooker to low for 6-8 hours or high for about 3-4 hours. Whichever you choose, the goal is to let those flavors meld beautifully.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Once the cooking time is up, stir the mixture. Taste it for seasoning, adjust if needed, and then serve it warm on soft burger buns. Don’t forget a napkin—it’s going to get a bit messy!
Notes
- Choose Lean Meat: Lean ground beef helps reduce grease. No one wants a soggy sandwich!
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh onions and peppers for better flavor. They’ll add a nice crunch too.
- Spice It Up: If you like a kick, consider adding some chopped jalapenos or a dash of hot sauce.
- Sauce Matters: Use quality ketchup. This is a foundational flavor and can make or break your dish.
- Let It Rest: After cooking, let the mixture sit for 10 minutes. This helps it thicken a bit.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the ingredients in advance and toss everything into the slow cooker in the morning. By the time you return home, dinner will be waiting for you!
2. How Can I Make Sloppy Joes Healthier?
Choose lean meats, reduce sugar in your sauce, or swap regular ketchup for a no-sugar-added version. Bumping up the vegetables will also increase the nutrition factor.
3. Are Sloppy Joes Freezer Friendly?
Yes! Make a big batch and freeze portions for busy nights. They reheat beautifully.
4. How Do I Adjust the Flavor if It’s Too Sweet?
Balance sweetness by adding a splash of apple cider vinegar or a bit of hot sauce. This will elevate the overall flavor profile.
5. Can I Use Different Buns?
Sure! Use whole-grain, gluten-free, or even lettuce wraps for a lighter alternative. The filling is the star, after all!
Conclusion
Slow cooker sloppy joes are a nostalgic dish with endless possibilities. Whether enjoyed at a summer BBQ or on a cozy weeknight, they bring comfort and satisfaction. The combination of simple ingredients, a bit of time, and a countertop appliance creates magic.
By keeping the preparation straightforward and enhancing with a few key ingredients, you’ll have a meal that families admire and friends rave about. It’s time to roll up your sleeves and dive into this dish. Happy cooking!
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Hi! I'm Mary Lee. I love helping people eat yummy and healthy food. I live in Oregon. Cooking is my happy place. Let's make tasty dishes together!
