How to make Sloppy Joes – Easy Recipe for Beginners

These bad boys are juicy, sweet, tangy, and unapologetically messy.

Takes just 20 minutes, uses pantry staples, and will make you forget regular burgers even exist.

Ingredients (Serves 2–3 sandwiches)

Ground beef (or ground turkey) – 250g

Onion – 60g (about ½ small), finely chopped

Garlic – 1 clove (optional), minced

Tomato ketchup – 80g (about ¼ cup)

Worcestershire sauce – 1 tablespoon (15ml)

Brown sugar – 1 tablespoon (13g)

Mustard (yellow or Dijon) – 1 teaspoon (5g)

Salt & pepper – to taste

Oil – 1 tablespoon

Burger buns – 2 to 3, sliced and toasted

Optional toppings – shredded cheese, pickles, coleslaw

Instructions

1. Sauté the base (3–4 minutes)

Heat 1 tbsp oil in a skillet over medium heat.

Add 60g chopped onion (and garlic, if using) and cook until soft.

2. Cook the beef (5–6 minutes)

Add 250g ground beef. Break it up with a spatula.

Cook until browned, about 5–6 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.

3. Sauce it up (3 minutes)

Add 80g ketchup, 1 tbsp Worcestershire, 1 tbsp brown sugar, 1 tsp mustard, salt, and pepper.

Simmer for 2–3 minutes, stirring until it thickens slightly.

4. Toast the buns (optional but awesome)

While the meat simmers, toast your buns lightly for better texture.

5. Assemble & devour (1 minute)

Scoop a generous pile of sloppy joe mix onto each bun.

Top with cheese, pickles, or nothing—because it's already perfect.

Pro Tip

Let the filling sit for a minute before spooning—it thickens and holds together better (slightly).