Sticky smoky sloppy joes
Sloppy joes are saucy, sweet and smoky ground beef piled on a toasted bun. Browned beef, soft onions and peppers simmer in ketchup, soy sauce, honey and mustard until glossy. It is a one-pan dinner that is ready in 25 minutes and loved by kids and adults.
- 25 minTotal time
- 2Servings
- 650kcal / serving
- 34 gProtein
The science: why this works
Brown the beef without stirring
Leaving the beef still for a minute at a time lets it touch the hot pan long enough to brown. That Maillard browning builds deep savory flavor. Constant stirring would steam it gray instead of browning it.
Learn: Brown food in batches →Soy sauce adds umami
Soy sauce is full of glutamates that boost the meaty taste of the beef. A small splash deepens the sauce without tasting like soy. It also rounds out the sweetness of the ketchup and honey nicely.
Learn: Building savory flavor →Simmer to thicken
As the sauce simmers, water evaporates and the sugars and tomato solids concentrate. The sauce turns thick and glossy so it clings to the meat. Stop when a spoon drawn across the pan leaves a trail.
Learn: Boil vs. simmer →Sticky smoky sloppy joes
25 minutes · 2 servings · American · Sandwich
Ingredients
Makes 2 servings
Method
Tips for the best result
- Cook the beef until no pink remains and it reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Toast the buns separately so they stay crisp under the sauce.
- Serve right away, while the buns are still crisp.
Swaps
- Swap the ground beef for ground turkey, cooked to 165°F (74°C).
- Swap the honey for brown sugar for a molasses-like sweetness.
- Swap the paprika for smoked paprika for extra smokiness.
Storing and reheating
Refrigerate leftover filling within 2 hours and eat within 3 to 4 days. Freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat to 165°F (74°C), adding a splash of water if thick.
Sticky smoky sloppy joes: questions
What do you serve with sloppy joes?
Coleslaw, oven fries, pickles or a green salad all go well. The crunch balances the soft saucy meat. Use what you have.
Can you freeze sloppy joe meat?
Yes, the cooked filling freezes well for up to 3 months. Cool it quickly and freeze in a sealed container. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat to 165°F (74°C).
How do you thicken sloppy joes?
Simmer the sauce uncovered until it reduces and turns glossy. Stir often near the end. A longer simmer gives a thicker result.
