Description
A classic American dish with tender ground beef simmered in a sweet, tangy tomato-based sauce, served on a toasted bun. This recipe features deep caramelized onions and a slow-cooked sauce for nostalgic flavor and spoonable texture.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef (80/20 fat ratio recommended)
1 medium yellow onion (finely diced)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1/2 cup ketchup
2 tbsp brown sugar
1 tbsp yellow mustard
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper (cracked fresh)
Instructions
Chop onion and mince garlic using a sharp knife for even distribution
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat
Place ground beef in skillet, using a spatula to break apart into uniform pieces
Add diced onions to beef mixture, stirring to coat and reduce moisture
Cook 8-10 minutes until onions become translucent and edges brown
Stir in minced garlic during final 2 minutes of cooking for mild flavor
Reduce heat to medium, stir in ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, and apple cider vinegar
Simmer 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thick and cohesive
Adjust salt to taste after simmering and serve on toasted buns
Notes
Sweet onions like Vidalia enhance flavor without sharpness
Use branded ketchup for consistent tartness
For gluten-free option, check mustard and ketchup brands
Serve leftovers chilled as a pot pie filling or reheat
- Prep Time: 12
- Cook Time: 40
- Category: Baking
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sloppy joe
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 150mg