Ever wondered why some Sloppy Joes taste incredibly better than others? What if I told you that the secret lies in the simplicity of an old fashioned recipe? These Old Fashioned Sloppy Joes are a perfect blend of comfort and deliciousness, ready in minutes with no need for canned sauce!
Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need:
- Ground beef: I recommend using 80/20 for the best flavor and texture.
- Onion: A small yellow or white onion works perfectly.
- Green bell pepper: Adds a nice crunch and flavor. If your kids aren’t fans, you can substitute with finely grated carrots.
- Garlic: A must for any savory dish!
- Tomato sauce: The base for our homemade sauce.
- Brown sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the tanginess.
- Worcestershire sauce: Gives the sauce its unique, savory flavor.
- Salt and pepper: For seasoning.
Timing
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes. That’s 40% less time than the average Sloppy Joe recipe!
Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make your own Old Fashioned Sloppy Joes:
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Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Chop your onions and green peppers, and mince your garlic.
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Step 2: Brown the Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until no longer pink. Drain the excess fat.
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Step 3: Add the Veggies
Add the onions, peppers, and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened.
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Step 4: Make the Sauce
Add the tomato sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Nutritional Information
Each serving of this delicious recipe contains approximately 300 calories, 16 grams of fat, 20 grams of protein, and 20 grams of carbohydrates. It’s a nutritionally balanced meal that keeps you full and satisfied!
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
For a leaner version, substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. You can also use a sugar substitute like stevia for a lower-sugar version of the recipe. For a gluten-free alternative, serve the Sloppy Joe mix over a baked potato or sweet potato instead of a bun!
Serving Suggestions
These Sloppy Joes are perfect with classic sides like potato chips or french fries. For a healthier side, try a simple green salad or steamed vegetables. Don’t forget to add a dill pickle on the side for a tangy crunch!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:
- Rushing the simmering process: Letting the sauce simmer allows the flavors to meld together for a richer taste.
- Overcooking the veggies: Cook your vegetables just until they’re softened to retain their texture and nutritional value.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Leftover Sloppy Joe mix can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Conclusion
These Old Fashioned Sloppy Joes are not just a meal; they’re a trip down memory lane. Simple, delicious, and ready in 30 minutes, they’re perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. So why wait? Try this recipe today and let us know how it turned out!

Old Fashioned Sloppy Joes: A Treasured Family Recipe
These Old Fashioned Sloppy Joes are a perfect blend of comfort and deliciousness, ready in minutes with no need for canned sauce!
Servings
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
20 minutes
Calories
Ingredients
- •Ground beef
- •Onion
- •Green bell pepper
- •Garlic
- •Tomato sauce
- •Brown sugar
- •Worcestershire sauce
- •Salt and pepper
Directions
- 1.Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
- 2.Step 2: Brown the Beef
- 3.Step 3: Add the Veggies