Slow Cooker Sloppy Joes are a comfort food classic that brings back so many childhood memories. Perfect for busy professionals and parents alike, this recipe allows you to toss everything into the slow cooker in the morning and return home to a delicious, hearty meal. Sloppy Joes originated during the Great Depression when stretching meat was economical, and they've remained popular for their simplicity and rich taste. Whether you're feeding a crowd or just want to meal prep for the week, these Sloppy Joes are a lifesaver.
Sloppy Joes pair wonderfully with crispy homemade fries, a simple coleslaw, or even a side salad for a lighter touch. Don't forget to toast the buns just slightly for that perfect crunch! For a more substantial meal, consider serving with a side of baked beans or corn on the cob. These sides not only complement the Sloppy Joes perfectly, but they also make the meal feel complete and satisfying.
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Slow Cooker Sloppy Joes
Servings: 6
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
1/2 cup green bell pepper, finely chopped
1 1/2 cups tomato sauce
1/4 cup ketchup
2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
2 tbsp brown sugar
1 tbsp mustard
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
6 hamburger buns
1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
1/2 cup green bell pepper, finely chopped
1 1/2 cups tomato sauce
1/4 cup ketchup
2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
2 tbsp brown sugar
1 tbsp mustard
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
6 hamburger buns
Directions
1. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it's no longer pink. Drain excess fat.
2. Transfer the cooked beef to the slow cooker. Add in the chopped onions and green bell pepper.
3. Pour in the tomato sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, mustard, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours.
5. Stir the mixture occasionally, if you're around, to ensure it's well combined.
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6. Serve the Sloppy Joe mixture hot on hamburger buns. Enjoy!
Variations & Tips
For a healthier twist, swap the ground beef with ground turkey or even a plant-based meat substitute. You can also add some grated carrots or zucchini to sneak in some extra veggies. If you like your Sloppy Joes on the spicier side, consider adding a pinch of red chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce. For a richer flavor, try using barbecue sauce instead of tomato sauce for a BBQ Sloppy Joe variant.