Classic Sloppy Joes with Beef Mince and Bell Peppers Recipe

Introduction

Sloppy Joes are a deliciously messy and comforting sandwich filled with savory, saucy beef mince. This classic American-inspired recipe combines bold flavors with simple ingredients, making it a perfect weeknight dinner that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 400g beef mince
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 green pepper, finely chopped
• 1 tsp garlic granules
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp light brown soft sugar
• 1 tbsp malt vinegar
• 4 tbsp ketchup
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard or ½ tsp mustard powder
• 300ml beef stock
• 4 burger buns, split
• Chilli sauce, to serve (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat half the olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Add the beef mince, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, and fry for about 10 minutes until browned all over. Remove from the pan and set aside.
2. Step 2: Add the remaining oil to the same pan and cook the onion and green pepper for 6-8 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic granules, smoked paprika, and sugar.
3. Step 3: Return the cooked mince and any juices to the pan and mix well. Cook for 1-2 minutes to combine the flavors.
4. Step 4: Pour in the malt vinegar, then stir through the ketchup and mustard. Add the beef stock and bring to a gentle simmer.
5. Step 5: Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture bubble gently for 15-20 minutes, until thickened and glossy. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
6. Step 6: Toast the burger buns in a hot pan. Spoon the sloppy joe mixture onto the buns and top with chilli sauce if desired. Serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

• For a spicier kick, add chopped fresh chili or a pinch of cayenne pepper when cooking the onions and peppers.
• Try adding finely chopped mushrooms to the mix for extra texture and flavor.
• Use whole wheat or gluten-free buns to cater to dietary preferences.
• If you prefer a thicker sauce, cook the mixture a little longer to reduce the liquid further.

Storage

Allow the sloppy joe mixture to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, divide into portions and store in freezer bags or containers for up to three months. Defrost overnight in the fridge and reheat gently in a pan until piping hot before serving.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use different types of meat?

Yes, you can substitute beef mince with turkey, chicken, or plant-based mince for a lighter or vegetarian option.

How can I make this recipe less messy to eat?

To reduce messiness, serve the sloppy joe mixture on open-faced buns or alongside a fork and knife. You can also use knife and fork to enjoy the filling without spills.

Classic Sloppy Joes with Beef Mince and Bell Peppers Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 81 reviews

• Author: Hailey
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

A classic Sloppy Joes recipe featuring seasoned beef mince cooked with onions, green peppers, and a smoky, tangy sauce served in toasted burger buns. This hearty and flavorful meal is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or casual gathering.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Meat and Vegetables

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 400g beef mince
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 green pepper, finely chopped

Seasonings and Sauces

• 1 tsp garlic granules
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp light brown soft sugar
• 1 tbsp malt vinegar
• 4 tbsp ketchup
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard or 1⁄2 tsp mustard powder

Liquids

• 300ml beef stock

Bread and Serving

• 4 burger buns, split
• Chilli sauce, to serve (optional)

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Instructions

1. Cook the beef mince: Heat half the olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Crumble in the beef mince and fry for 10 minutes, breaking it up with a wooden spoon and stirring until it is browned all over. Once cooked, transfer the mince to a plate.
2. Sauté the vegetables: Add the remaining olive oil to the same pan and fry the finely chopped onion and green pepper for 6-8 minutes until softened and tender.
3. Add seasonings and combine: Sprinkle the garlic granules, smoked paprika, and light brown sugar over the softened vegetables. Return the cooked beef mince along with any resting juices back into the pan. Stir everything together and cook for 1-2 minutes to blend the flavors.
4. Add liquids and simmer: Splash in the malt vinegar, then stir through ketchup and Dijon mustard (or mustard powder). Pour in the beef stock and bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Simmer to thicken: Reduce the heat to low and let everything bubble gently for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is thick and glossy. Taste and season with salt and pepper if needed.
6. Prepare buns and serve: Toast the burger buns in a hot pan until golden. Spoon the sloppy joe mixture onto the buns and top with chilli sauce if desired. Serve immediately.
7. Freezing and reheating (optional): To freeze, allow the mixture to cool completely, then place in an airtight container or portion into freezer bags. Freeze for up to three months. Defrost overnight in the fridge and reheat in a pan until piping hot before serving.

Notes

• The malt vinegar adds a subtle tanginess that balances the sweetness of the brown sugar and ketchup.
• You can substitute ground turkey or chicken mince for a leaner option.
• Adjust the smoky paprika and chilli sauce amounts to your preferred spice level.
• Leftovers freeze well and make for convenient future meals.
• For extra flavor, consider adding diced celery or carrots with the peppers.
• Mustard powder is a good alternative if you don’t have Dijon mustard on hand.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: Sloppy Joes, beef mince recipe, classic American sandwich, easy dinner, comfort food, smoky beef, sandwich filling