Slow Cooker Sloppy Joes Recipe

Introduction

Slow Cooker Sloppy Joes are an easy and comforting meal perfect for busy weeknights. This recipe combines tender ground beef with savory spices in a rich tomato sauce, all cooked low and slow for maximum flavor.

Ingredients

• 1 lb. ground beef (7% fat or any preferred type)
• 1 yellow onion, diced
• 1 green or red bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup ketchup
• 8 oz. can tomato sauce (not paste)
• 2 Tbsp. mustard
• 1 tsp. apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp. Worcestershire sauce
• 3/4 tsp. salt
• 1/4 tsp. pepper
• 1/4 tsp. garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp. chili powder
• 1 Tbsp. brown sugar

Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, diced onion, and diced bell pepper. Brown the beef while crumbling it and cook until the vegetables are softened. Drain excess fat if the beef is too greasy.
2. Step 2: Transfer the beef mixture to the slow cooker. Add ketchup, tomato sauce, mustard, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, garlic powder, chili powder, and brown sugar.
3. Step 3: Stir all ingredients well to combine. Cover with the slow cooker lid.
4. Step 4: Cook on HIGH for 2 hours or on LOW for 3 hours. Check occasionally and stir if the mixture begins to stick or burn on the edges.
5. Step 5: Toast buns and spoon the Sloppy Joe mixture onto them. Add cheese and pickles if desired before serving.

Tips & Variations

• For a bit of heat, add a dash of hot sauce or some chopped jalapeños to the mixture.
• Use turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version.
• Serve on gluten-free buns or lettuce wraps to accommodate dietary needs.
• Add shredded cheese directly in the slow cooker near the end of cooking for a cheesy twist.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to maintain even temperature. You can also freeze the Sloppy Joe mixture for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe without a slow cooker?

Yes, you can prepare the Sloppy Joes on the stovetop. After browning the meat and vegetables, combine all ingredients in a large pan and simmer on low heat for 20–30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

What kind of buns work best for Sloppy Joes?

Soft hamburger buns are traditional and work well to hold the saucy filling. For extra flavor, lightly toast the buns before assembling.

Slow Cooker Sloppy Joes Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 149 reviews

• Author: lilan
• Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes to 3 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

This Slow Cooker Sloppy Joes recipe offers a convenient and delicious way to enjoy a classic American favorite with minimal effort. Ground beef is browned with onions and bell peppers, then combined with a tangy tomato-based sauce and slow-cooked to perfect tenderness. Served on toasted buns, these sloppy joes are ideal for a hearty family meal or casual gatherings.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Meat and Vegetables

• 1 lb. ground beef (7% fat preferred, but any works)
• 1 yellow onion, diced
• 1 green or red bell pepper, diced

Sauce and Seasonings

• 1 cup ketchup
• 8 oz. can tomato sauce (NOT tomato paste)
• 2 Tbsp. mustard
• 1 tsp. apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp. Worcestershire sauce
• 3/4 tsp. salt
• 1/4 tsp. pepper
• 1/4 tsp. garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp. chili powder
• 1 Tbsp. brown sugar

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Instructions

1. Brown the Meat and Vegetables: Place a large skillet on the stovetop over medium-high heat. Once hot, add ground beef, diced onion, and diced bell pepper. Cook while crumbling the beef until browned and vegetables are softened. If the beef releases a lot of fat, drain the excess before proceeding.
2. Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker: Transfer the browned beef, onion, and bell pepper mixture into the slow cooker. Add ketchup, tomato sauce, mustard, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, garlic powder, chili powder, and brown sugar. Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients evenly.
3. Slow Cook the Mixture: Cover the slow cooker with its lid. Cook on HIGH for 2 hours or on LOW for 3 hours. During cooking, monitor occasionally and stir if the mixture appears to be sticking or burning around the edges to ensure even cooking and flavor integration.
4. Prepare the Buns and Serve: Toast the buns lightly until golden. Spoon a generous amount of the cooked sloppy joe mixture onto each bun. Optionally, add toppings such as cheese slices or pickles for extra flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

• Use lean ground beef (around 7% fat) to reduce excessive grease, but any fat content works.
• Do not substitute tomato paste for tomato sauce, as the sauce offers a thinner consistency essential for proper texture.
• Adjust seasoning amounts to taste, especially salt and chili powder for spiciness.
• Carefully monitor the slow cooker to prevent burning and stir occasionally if needed.
• Sloppy Joes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• This recipe can be doubled for larger groups; just adjust cooking time slightly if necessary.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 2 to 3 hours
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: Slow Cooker Sloppy Joes, Sloppy Joe Recipe, Easy Family Dinner, Ground Beef Recipe, Slow Cooker Recipes