Dinner

Diner Sloppy Joes Recipe

ByHailey Reed December 4, 2025December 4, 2025

Introduction

These diner-style sloppy joes bring a comforting, smoky twist to a classic favorite. Packed with tender minced beef and a rich tomato sauce, they’re perfect for a casual meal that’s both hearty and full of flavor.

The image shows four white sandwich buns filled with layers of chunky red meat sauce mixed with small pieces of red bell peppers, topped with melted pale yellow cheese that is slightly browned and gooey. The buns have a soft white texture with a light dusting of flour on top. They are arranged on a white plate with a rustic colorful rim, placed on a bright turquoise surface. Behind the plate, there is a white bowl filled with fresh bright green lettuce and another white bowl containing a small heap of crunchy brown bits. A woman's hand is lifting one bun, showing the inside layers clearly. The background is a soft white with a hint of light. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 tbsp vegetable oil
1 onion, finely chopped
2 small red or yellow peppers, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, crushed
400g minced beef
2 x 400ml cans chopped tomatoes
2 tbsp chipotle or smoky barbecue sauce
4 cheese slices
6 burger buns
Crispy onions, to serve
Iceberg lettuce, to serve

Instructions

Step 1: Heat the vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, peppers, and crushed garlic. Cook for 8-10 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Step 2: Add the minced beef to the pan. Break it up with a wooden spoon and cook until browned all over.
Step 3: Pour in the chopped tomatoes and chipotle or smoky barbecue sauce. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Simmer gently for 10-15 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Step 4: Place the cheese slices over the mince mixture. Cover the pan with a lid and allow the cheese to melt for about 2 minutes.
Step 5: Spoon the cheesy sloppy joe mixture onto the burger buns. Serve topped with crispy onions and iceberg lettuce on the side for scooping up any extra sauce.

Tips & Variations

For extra smoky flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika alongside the chipotle sauce.
Use turkey mince instead of beef for a lighter version.
If you prefer a spicier dish, include some chopped jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce.
To make it vegetarian, substitute minced beef with cooked lentils or a plant-based mince.

Storage

Store any leftover sloppy joe mixture in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of water if the sauce is too thick. For best texture, toast the burger buns fresh before serving.