Cooking Instructions

In a large skillet, heat the butter or olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced onions, bell peppers, and minced garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 4-5 minutes.

Add the ground beef to the skillet and break it apart with a spatula. Cook until it's browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.

In a large bowl, combine the tomato sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and brown sugar, if using. Stir until well mixed. Pour this sauce mixture into the skillet with the browned meat and vegetables.

Season the mixture with your choice of spices—smoked paprika, cumin, and oregano work well. Stir everything together and let it simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken.

While the mixture simmers, toast the hamburger buns in a separate pan or toaster until golden brown. Once done, spoon the sloppy Joe mixture generously onto the toasted buns and top with sliced pickles.

Extra Tips

To enhance the flavor and texture of your sloppy Joes, consider toasting the buns before assembling the sandwiches. If the sauce becomes too watery, a cornstarch slurry can be added to thicken it up. Adjust the sweetness by customizing the amount of brown sugar to your liking, and feel free to experiment with different types of meat, such as ground turkey or chicken, for a lighter alternative. The meat mixture can be frozen for up to 3 months, making it a convenient meal option for busy days. Enjoy your delightful sloppy Joes!