These Easy Slow Cooker Sloppy Joes are a fun and tasty meal! With ground beef, tomatoes, and simple spices, they cook gently for a flavorful feast.
Perfect for busy days, all you do is mix the ingredients and let the slow cooker do its magic. I love serving these with soft buns—then it’s messy eating, but that’s part of the fun! 🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star of the show! I like using 80/20 ground beef for the perfect balance of flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for a healthier option, ground turkey or chicken work well too. Just be aware that they can be drier, so maybe add a splash of broth.
Onion: A small onion adds great flavor. You can substitute with shallots for a milder flavor, or skip the onion altogether if you’re not a fan. A dash of onion powder could be a nice alternative in that case!
Green Bell Pepper: This is optional but adds crunch and sweetness. If you’d like, you can switch it up with a red or yellow bell pepper for a sweeter taste or even some chopped jalapeños for heat.
Tomato Sauce: The base for your sauce! If you prefer a thicker sauce, just use a bit less tomato sauce and add extra tomato paste. You can also substitute with crushed tomatoes if that’s what you have on hand.
How Do I Pick the Right Cooking Time for My Slow Cooker?
The cooking time can vary based on your slow cooker’s heat settings. Generally, cook on low for about 4 to 6 hours. To check if your Sloppy Joes are ready, look for the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly. If time is short, you can also set it to high for 2 to 3 hours. Just remember to stir occasionally for even cooking!
- Make sure to brown the beef first to enhance the flavor.
- Stir the mixture occasionally while it cooks to ensure even heat distribution.
- At the end of cooking, taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Some extra salt or pepper could really elevate the dish!
Easy Slow Cooker Sloppy Joes
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 small green bell pepper, finely chopped (optional)
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 6 hamburger buns
Time Needed
You’ll need about 15 minutes for prep and anywhere from 4 to 6 hours for cooking in the slow cooker. The long cooking time allows the flavors to come together beautifully, making it worth the wait!
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Brown the Beef:
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook it until it’s fully browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Once done, drain off any excess fat and set the beef aside.
2. Set Up the Slow Cooker:
Transfer the browned beef into your slow cooker. Add the chopped onion and, if you’re using it, the chopped green bell pepper. These veggies add great flavor and a bit of crunch!
3. Mix in the Sauce Ingredients:
Now, it’s time for the sauce! Stir in the tomato sauce, ketchup, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, yellow mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well so that the ground beef is covered in the sauce mixture.
4. Cook:
Cover your slow cooker with the lid and set it to cook on low heat for 4 to 6 hours. If you have time, the longer it cooks, the better the flavors meld together. Remember to stir occasionally if you can!
5. Serve:
When you’re ready to eat, scoop the sloppy joe mixture onto the hamburger buns. You can add your favorite toppings like pickles, cheese, or even some coleslaw for extra crunch!
6. Enjoy:
Dig in and enjoy your homemade, hearty sloppy joes! They’re perfect for family dinners or a casual gathering with friends. Happy eating!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef for This Recipe?
It’s best to thaw the ground beef before cooking. You can thaw it overnight in the fridge or quickly in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water. Cooking frozen ground beef in a slow cooker isn’t recommended, as it may not cook evenly.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you like a bit of heat, add some diced jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or even a splash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture. You can also opt for spicy mustard instead of yellow mustard for an extra kick!
What Should I Serve With Sloppy Joes?
Sloppy Joes are delicious served with side dishes like potato chips, coleslaw, or a simple green salad. You can also pair them with some baked fries or onion rings for a fun meal!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can cook the sloppy joe mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it on the stove or in the microwave before serving, and it will taste just as great!
