Remember those nostalgic school days? The aroma of mystery meat and the comforting taste of Sloppy Joes? This recipe isn't your average Sloppy Joe; it's a faithful recreation of the classic 1960s school cafeteria version, bringing back those cherished childhood memories with every bite. Get ready for a quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying meal – perfect for busy weeknights or a fun family dinner. This easy recipe is a delicious dish, a true example of homemade cooking at its best.
Ingredients: A Simple List for a Classic Dish
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it perfect for beginner cooks. You probably already have most of them in your pantry!
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 lb ground beef (or a leaner alternative for a healthier meal)
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup white vinegar
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Hamburger buns
Instructions: Easy Steps to Sloppy Joe Success
This recipe is incredibly straightforward, even for those new to cooking. Let's get started!
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Sauté the Veggies: In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the chopped onion and green bell pepper until softened, about 5-7 minutes. This simple step adds depth of flavor to your Sloppy Joes.
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Brown the Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
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Simmer the Sauce: Stir in the tomato sauce, tomato paste, brown sugar, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor becomes!
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Serve it Up: Serve the Sloppy Joe mixture on hamburger buns. Enjoy the taste of a simpler time!
Tips and Variations for the Perfect Sloppy Joe
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicier kick.
- Make it Meaty: For a heartier Sloppy Joe, use a combination of ground beef and ground pork.
- Veggie Option: Substitute ground beef with lentils or mushrooms for a vegetarian-friendly version.
- Slow Cooker Magic: For a hands-off approach, transfer the entire sauce mixture to a slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 20-25g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
This classic Sloppy Joe recipe is a delicious and easy meal that's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend lunch. The simple ingredients and straightforward steps make it accessible to cooks of all skill levels. Enjoy this trip down memory lane!