Classic Sloppy Joes
Sloppy joes are one of those meals that don’t need fixing. They’re simple, comforting, and familiar — the kind of dinner that shows up on busy nights and feeds everyone without complaint.
This version is made with ground hamburger, simmered in a lightly sweet, tangy sauce using pantry staples you probably already have on hand. No canned shortcuts, no unnecessary extras — just a good, dependable sloppy joe that tastes the way you remember.
Serve these on soft homemade hamburger buns, and you’ve got a meal that feels like home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Made with simple pantry ingredients
- Uses ground beef for rich, classic flavor
- Ready in under 30 minutes
- Family-friendly and freezer-friendly
- Perfect pairing with homemade hamburger buns
This is the kind of dinner that doesn’t try to impress — it just shows up and feeds people well. Warm, saucy, and familiar, these classic sloppy joes are meant to be eaten with both hands and plenty of napkins.
Pair them with homemade hamburger buns, and you’ve got a simple meal that feels just right.
If you make this recipe, leave a comment or rating below — I always love hearing how it turns out in your kitchen.
Classic Sloppy Joes
Ingredients
Method
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground hamburger and cook until fully browned, breaking it up as it cooks.
- Drain excess grease if needed, leaving a small amount for flavor.
- Stir in the ketchup, water, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thick and saucy.
- If the mixture seems too thin, let it simmer a few minutes longer.
- If it becomes too thick, add a splash of water.
- Spoon generously onto hamburger buns and serve warm.
Notes
Tips for Success
- For thicker sloppy joes, let the mixture rest off the heat for a few minutes before serving.
- This recipe is mild; add black pepper if desired.
- Leftovers reheat well and taste even better the next day.
Storage & Make Ahead
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days
- Freezer: Freeze cooled sloppy joe mixture for up to 3 months
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove
