Name: The BEST Instant Pot Sloppy Joes
Prep time: 12 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 Tablespoon butter; 1 pound lean ground beef ((or ground turkey)); 1/2 red bell pepper, diced; 1/2 red onion, diced; 3 Tablespoons brown sugar; 3 Tablespoons red wine vinegar; 1 Tablespoon steak seasoning; 1 Tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 15 ounces tomato sauce; 8 hamburger buns

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There’s nothing quite like the nostalgic comfort of sloppy joes, and this Instant Pot version takes it to the next level. In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a hearty, flavorful meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. The tender ground beef is simmered in a tangy-sweet sauce, creating a rich, savory filling that’s both satisfying and indulgent. Piled high on a soft bun, every bite is a perfect balance of juicy, saucy goodness and a hint of smoky sweetness.

What makes this recipe a standout? It’s all about the texture and flavor—each mouthful is packed with a medley of spices, a touch of crunch from diced veggies, and a velvety sauce that clings perfectly to the meat. Plus, the Instant Pot locks in all the deliciousness, ensuring every bite is as flavorful as the last. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving a quick, comforting meal, these sloppy joes are guaranteed to hit the spot.

What You’ll Need for The BEST Instant Pot Sloppy Joes

The BEST Instant Pot Sloppy Joes Ingredients

1 Tablespoon butter (unsalted preferred)
1 pound lean ground beef (or substitute with ground turkey for a lighter option)
½ red bell pepper, diced (about ½ cup)
½ red onion, diced (about ½ cup)
3 Tablespoons brown sugar (light or dark, depending on your preference)
3 Tablespoons red wine vinegar (apple cider vinegar works as a substitute)
1 Tablespoon steak seasoning (store-bought or homemade blend)
1 Tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
15 ounces tomato sauce (1 can)
8 hamburger buns (toasted for extra flavor, if desired)

How to Make The BEST Instant Pot Sloppy Joes

Press the SAUTE button on your Instant Pot. Add the butter and let it melt completely.
Add the ground beef, red bell pepper, and red onion to the pot. Cook, breaking up the meat with a spatula, until the beef is browned and the vegetables are softened (about 5-7 minutes).
Press CANCEL to turn off the SAUTE function.
In a bowl, mix together the brown sugar, red wine vinegar, steak seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, and tomato sauce until well combined.
Pour the sauce over the meat mixture in the Instant Pot. Stir to combine thoroughly. Tip: Use a wooden spoon to scrape the bottom of the pot to prevent burning and deglaze any browned bits.
Place the lid on the Instant Pot and secure it. Turn the vent to SEALING.
Press the MANUAL button and set the timer for 8 minutes. The Instant Pot will take a few minutes to come to pressure before cooking begins.
Once cooking is complete, let the pressure NATURALLY RELEASE for 10 minutes. Then, carefully move the vent to VENTING to release any remaining pressure.
Remove the lid and stir the mixture to ensure everything is well combined. Serve the sloppy joe meat on hamburger buns and enjoy!

Creative Toppings and Sauce Ideas

Take your Sloppy Joes to the next level with fun toppings! Try adding a slice of melted cheddar or pepper jack cheese for extra richness. For a tangy twist, drizzle with sriracha mayo (mix 2 tablespoons mayo with 1 teaspoon sriracha). Pickles, jalapeños, or a handful of crispy fried onions can also add a satisfying crunch. Don’t forget a dollop of creamy coleslaw for a cool contrast to the savory meat!

Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with Sloppy Joes

These Sloppy Joes are a crowd-pleaser on their own, but they pair wonderfully with classic sides. Serve them with sweet potato fries, a simple green salad, or a side of baked beans for a hearty meal. For a lighter option, try pairing with a fresh cucumber and tomato salad. And don’t forget the napkins—this meal is delightfully messy!

Storing and Reheating Made Easy

Leftovers? No problem! Store the Sloppy Joe mixture in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between. If the mixture seems dry, add a splash of water or tomato sauce to bring back its saucy consistency. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months—just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Quick Tips for a Stress-Free Meal

To save time, prep your veggies (red pepper and onion) ahead of time and store them in the fridge. If you’re short on time, skip the sauté step and brown the meat in a skillet while the Instant Pot heats up. For a burn notice prevention tip, always deglaze the pot thoroughly before pressure cooking. And if you’re feeding a crowd, double the recipe—it works perfectly in a 6-quart Instant Pot!

Recipe Variations to Try

Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your taste! Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or even plant-based crumbles for a lighter option. Add a can of drained black beans or corn for extra texture and flavor. For a smoky twist, use BBQ sauce instead of tomato sauce. And if you like it spicy, toss in a diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper!