BBQ Sloppy Joes bring the perfect balance of smoky, tangy, and sweet flavors to your table in just 15 minutes. Juicy ground beef simmers in a rich, barbecue-infused sauce, creating a hearty filling that’s both comforting and satisfying. The soft, pillowy buns soak up every bit of the savory goodness, while the slight crunch of onions adds a delightful texture. It’s a quick, fuss-free meal that feels indulgent without the effort.
Packed with 21g of protein and a burst of flavor in every bite, this dish is a crowd-pleaser for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. The smoky aroma alone will have everyone gathering around the kitchen, eager to dig in. With its irresistible blend of textures and bold, mouthwatering taste, these BBQ Sloppy Joes are sure to become a fast favorite.
What You’ll Need for BBQ Sloppy Joes
- 1 pound ground beef (or substitute with ground turkey for a lighter option)
- ½ cup diced onion (yellow or white onion works best)
- 1 green pepper, diced (feel free to use red or yellow pepper for a sweeter flavor)
- 1 cup barbeque sauce (use your favorite store-bought or homemade sauce)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 6 hamburger buns (toasted for extra crunch, if desired)
How to Make BBQ Sloppy Joes
- Brown the meat: In a saucepan over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s almost fully cooked through, breaking it into small pieces with a spoon.
- Add veggies: Stir in the diced onion and green pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are soft and the meat is fully cooked.
- Mix in the sauce: Pour in the barbeque sauce and stir to combine. Let the mixture warm on the stovetop until heated through, about 2-3 minutes.
- Season: Taste and season with salt and pepper as desired.
- Serve: Spoon the BBQ sloppy joe mixture onto hamburger buns and enjoy immediately!
Creative Toppings to Elevate Your Sloppy Joes
Add a burst of flavor and texture to your BBQ Sloppy Joes with these easy toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, pickle slices, or crispy coleslaw. For a spicy kick, drizzle with hot sauce or top with jalapeños. These additions make each bite even more memorable!
Perfect Pairings for a Complete Meal
Serve your BBQ Sloppy Joes with classic sides like potato chips, corn on the cob, or a fresh garden salad. For a heartier option, try pairing with sweet potato fries or baked beans. These combinations ensure a satisfying and well-rounded meal.
Time-Saving Tips for Busy Cooks
Short on time? Use pre-diced onions and peppers or opt for a pre-made BBQ sauce to speed up prep. You can also brown the meat in advance and store it in the fridge, making assembly a breeze when you’re ready to cook.
Storage and Reheating Made Simple
Leftovers? Store the meat mixture in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. For a quick lunch, spoon the mixture onto fresh buns and enjoy!
Fun Recipe Variations to Try
Switch things up by using ground turkey for a leaner option or adding crumbled bacon for extra smokiness. You can also experiment with different BBQ sauces like honey mustard or spicy chipotle to tailor the flavor to your taste.
BBQ Sloppy Joes
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1 green pepper, diced
- 1 cup barbeque sauce
- salt and pepper, to taste
- 6 Hamburger Buns
Instructions
- Brown meat in a saucepan over medium heat. After meat is almost cooked through, add onion and pepper and saute for 5 minutes, or until vegetables are soft.
- Add barbecue sauce and warm on stovetop until heated through. Season with salt and pepper, as desired.
- Serve on hamburger buns.