Description
A deliciously saucy and sweet-savory Sloppy Joe recipe made effortlessly in the slow cooker. Perfect for weeknights, parties, or meal prepping.
Ingredients
- Ground Beef: 1 ½ pounds – The main protein, hearty and satisfying.
- Yellow Onion: 1 medium, finely diced – Brings sweetness and aroma.
- Garlic Cloves: 3, minced – Adds robust, savory depth.
- Ketchup: 1 cup – Provides sweetness, tang, and body.
- Tomato Paste: 2 tablespoons – Concentrates the tomato richness.
- Brown Sugar: 2 tablespoons – Gives the sauce its signature sweetness.
- Worcestershire Sauce: 1 tablespoon – Adds umami complexity.
- Yellow Mustard: 1 tablespoon – Brings a zippy balance to the sweet.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: 1 tablespoon – Brightens and cuts through richness.
- Salt: 1 teaspoon – Essential for flavor.
- Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon – For just a touch of heat.
- Optional Red Pepper Flakes: ¼ teaspoon – For those who like it with a kick.
- Burger Buns: 6 – Soft, fluffy carriers for all that saucy goodness.
Instructions
- Preheat Your Equipment: Plug in your slow cooker and set it to low while you prep the ingredients.
- Combine Ingredients: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat. Add onions and garlic, sautéing until softened, about 3–4 minutes.
- Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Lightly spray the inside of your Crock Pot with non-stick spray for easy cleanup.
- Assemble the Dish: Transfer beef mixture to the slow cooker. Stir in ketchup, tomato paste, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, vinegar, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.
- Cook to Perfection: Cover and cook on low for 4–6 hours or high for 2–3 hours. Stir occasionally if you’re nearby.
- Finishing Touches: If too saucy, remove the lid for the last 30 minutes to allow the mixture to thicken.
- Serve and Enjoy: Spoon generous portions onto toasted buns, and serve hot with your favorite sides.
Notes
- Note: Browning the beef before slow cooking enhances flavor and texture.
- Note: For a healthier version, try ground turkey or plant-based meat.
- Note: Toasting the buns prevents them from getting soggy.