MVP Sloppy Joes Toasted Buns (Print View)
Savory ground beef and tangy tomato sauce served on toasted burger buns.
# What You'll Need:
→ Meat & Protein
01 - 1 pound lean ground beef
02 - 1 tablespoon olive oil (if beef is very lean)
→ Vegetables
03 - 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
04 - 1 small green bell pepper, finely diced
05 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
→ Sauce & Seasoning
06 - 1 cup tomato sauce
07 - 2 tablespoons tomato paste
08 - 2 tablespoons ketchup
09 - 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
10 - 1 tablespoon brown sugar
11 - 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
12 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
13 - 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
14 - 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
15 - 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
16 - 1/4 cup water
→ Serving
17 - 4 burger buns, split
18 - 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (optional, for toasting buns)
# Step-by-Step Directions:
01 - Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat if using. Add ground beef and cook, breaking up with a spoon, until browned and no longer pink, about 5 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
02 - Add onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet with the beef. Sauté for 4 to 5 minutes until vegetables are softened and fragrant.
03 - Stir in tomato sauce, tomato paste, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, mustard, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, pepper, and water. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined.
04 - Reduce heat to low and let the mixture simmer, uncovered, for 10 to 12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and allow the sauce to thicken to desired consistency.
05 - While the mixture simmers, heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Spread butter on the cut sides of the buns and toast, cut side down, until golden and crisp, 2 to 3 minutes.
06 - Spoon the hot sloppy joe mixture generously onto the toasted buns. Serve immediately while warm.
# Expert Suggestions:
01 -
- Everything happens in one pan, and the whole meal comes together in under 30 minutes
- That perfect balance of sweet and tangy makes everyone forget they're eating something so simple
02 -
- The sauce continues to thicken as it cools, so don't reduce it too much on the stove or it'll be pasty
- Toasting the buns isn't optional, it creates a barrier that prevents the bottom bun from getting soggy within seconds
03 -
- The mixture tastes even better the next day, so don't hesitate to make it ahead and reheat gently
- If the sauce seems too thick, add water one tablespoon at a time until it reaches your desired consistency