This Easy Slow Cooker Sloppy Joes recipe is a total winner for busy days! Just mix ground beef, onion, and a tangy sauce in the slow cooker, and let it do its magic.
The best part? Your house will smell amazing while it cooks! I love serving these juicy sandwiches on soft buns for a quick and tasty meal everyone enjoys.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the heart of the dish! Ground beef offers a rich flavor that pairs well with the sauce. If you prefer a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken work well too. For a vegetarian version, try using lentils or a plant-based ground meat substitute.
Onion: A medium onion is essential for adding sweetness and depth to the flavor. If you don’t have one, shallots or even green onions can do the trick. For a milder taste, you could skip the onion or use onion powder instead.
Ketchup: Ketchup gives the Sloppy Joes their signature sweetness and tang. If you’re out of ketchup, you can use tomato sauce with a little sugar and vinegar, or even BBQ sauce for a twist!
Worcestershire Sauce: This adds a unique umami flavor. If you’re looking for a substitute, soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free) can work. Or try a homemade mix of vinegar, soy sauce, and a little sugar.
How Do I Make the Perfect Sloppy Joe Mixture in a Slow Cooker?
Making a delicious Sloppy Joe mixture in a slow cooker is quite simple. The slow cooker allows all those flavors to meld beautifully while you focus on other tasks! Here’s how:
- Start by browning the ground beef and onions in a skillet. This step is key for flavor. Don’t rush it; cook until the meat is nice and brown.
- Transfer the browned mixture to your slow cooker. Add all other ingredients and stir well. Make sure everything is well-mixed.
- Set your slow cooker on low for 4–6 hours or high for 2–3 hours. Stir halfway if possible, it really helps blend the flavors.
- Before serving, give it a quick stir and check the consistency. A splash of water or broth can loosen it up if it’s too thick.
Trust me; the longer you let it cook, the more delicious it is! Enjoy your Sloppy Joes on buns with your favorite toppings!
Easy Slow Cooker Sloppy Joes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sloppy Joe Mixture:
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Serving:
- 4 to 6 hamburger buns
- Optional: shredded cheddar cheese
- Optional: pickles
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and then requires 4 to 6 hours of cooking time on low (or 2 to 3 hours on high). It’s perfect for leaving it to cook while you go about your day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Beef and Onions:
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and chopped onion. Cook until the beef is browned and the onion is nice and translucent. Make sure to drain off any excess fat to keep your Sloppy Joe mixture from being greasy.
2. Mix Together the Ingredients:
Once the beef and onion are ready, transfer them to your slow cooker. Now, it’s time to add the flavor! Dump in the ketchup, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, yellow mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Give it a good stir until everything is well combined.
3. Let It Cook:
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 4 to 6 hours, or on high for 2 to 3 hours. If you can, stir it halfway through the cooking time. This helps all those delicious flavors to meld together.
4. Finish and Serve:
When the cooking time is up, give the sloppy joe mixture a good stir. If it looks a bit thick, feel free to add a splash of water or beef broth to thin it out. Scoop generous portions onto hamburger buns and, if you like, top them with shredded cheddar cheese and pickles!
5. Enjoy:
Serve your delicious Sloppy Joes immediately and get ready to enjoy a meal that’s sure to become a family favorite!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great leaner substitute for ground beef. Just cook it the same way, and you’ll get a tasty and healthier Sloppy Joe!
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply replace the ground beef with lentils, black beans, or a plant-based meat alternative. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed, especially for lentils!
Can I Freeze Leftovers?
Yes, you can! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.
What Can I Serve with Sloppy Joes?
Sloppy Joes are delicious on their own, but you can make it a meal by serving them with sides like coleslaw, potato chips, or a simple salad for some added crunch and freshness!
