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.
Ingredients
Scale
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)
Instructions
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
