Not-so-Sloppy Joes

Not-so-Sloppy Joes Recipe - A Delicious American Classic

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 7-8 hours on low or 4-5 hours on high | Servings: 6-8

Introduction

Not-so-Sloppy Joes are a delicious and easy-to-make meal that the whole family will love. This classic comfort food is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends. With a tangy and sweet flavor, these Not-so-Sloppy Joes are sure to become a favorite in your household.

History

The origins of the Sloppy Joe sandwich are a bit murky, but it is believed to have originated in the United States in the early 20th century. The sandwich is typically made with ground beef, onions, and a tomato-based sauce, served on a hamburger bun. The name "Sloppy Joe" is said to have come from a cook named Joe in Sioux City, Iowa, who created the sandwich in the 1930s. Over the years, the recipe has evolved and been adapted in various ways, including this Not-so-Sloppy Joes recipe.

Ingredients

1 Reynolds™ slow cooker liner
2 lb (907 g) cooked and drained ground beef
1 large chopped onion
1 medium chopped green bell pepper
2 cups ketchup
1 cup barbecue sauce
1-2 tbsp vinegar and worcestershire sauce (optional)
1 tbsp prepared mustard
buns or rolls

How to prepare

Open the slow cooker liner and place it inside a 5 – 6 qt (5.68 liter) slow cooker bowl.
Place the beef, onion, and bell pepper in the lined slow cooker in an even layer.
Combine the remaining ingredients in a medium bowl.
Pour the mixture over the beef and vegetables.
Place the lid on the slow cooker.
Cook on low for 7 – 8 hours or on high for 4 – 5 hours, until the vegetables are tender.
Carefully remove the lid to allow steam to escape.
Gently stir the Not-so-Sloppy Joes and serve directly from the lined slow cooker.
Do not lift or transport the liner with food inside.
Cool the slow cooker completely, remove the liner, and toss it.

Variations

Add diced tomatoes or corn to the mixture for added flavor and texture.
Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version of the recipe.
Experiment with different barbecue sauces to change up the flavor profile of the Not-so-Sloppy Joes.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To save time, you can use pre-cooked and drained ground beef for this recipe.

- Adding Worcestershire sauce to the mixture can add an extra depth of flavor to the Not-so-Sloppy Joes.

- Be sure to cook the vegetables until they are tender but still have a bit of crunch for the best texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Not-so-Sloppy Joes on toasted hamburger buns with a side of coleslaw or potato salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Slow cooking the Not-so-Sloppy Joes allows the flavors to meld together and the meat to become tender. This method also makes for an easy and hands-off cooking experience.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have Worcestershire sauce, you can substitute soy sauce or steak sauce for a similar flavor profile. You can also use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a leaner option.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the Not-so-Sloppy Joes mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before cooking. Simply transfer the mixture to the lined slow cooker when you're ready to cook.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Not-so-Sloppy Joes in a large bowl with a ladle for easy serving. You can also garnish with chopped fresh parsley or green onions for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Not-so-Sloppy Joes pair well with a side of crispy french fries or sweet potato wedges. A side of pickles or pickled vegetables can also add a tangy contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Not-so-Sloppy Joes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Not-so-Sloppy Joes contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Not-so-Sloppy Joes contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Not-so-Sloppy Joes contains approximately 15 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Not-so-Sloppy Joes contains approximately 25 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Not-so-Sloppy Joes are a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains wheat (rolls) and soy (barbecue sauce), which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Not-so-Sloppy Joes are a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. They are also a good source of vitamins and minerals, making them a nutritious choice for a family meal.

Summary

Not-so-Sloppy Joes are a classic and comforting meal that is easy to make and perfect for feeding a crowd. With a tangy and sweet flavor, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy these Not-so-Sloppy Joes on a busy weeknight or at your next casual gathering with friends.

How did I get this recipe?

I vividly recall the moment I first laid eyes on this recipe for Not-so-Sloppy Joes. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Martha at her cozy little cottage by the lake. Martha was known for her delicious home-cooked meals, and on that particular day, she had invited me over for lunch.

As soon as I walked into her kitchen, I was greeted by the mouth-watering aroma of simmering meat and spices. Martha was busy stirring a pot on the stove, and when she saw me, she flashed me a warm smile.

"Ah, just in time, dear," she said. "I'm making my famous Not-so-Sloppy Joes for lunch today. You're in for a real treat!"

I watched in awe as Martha worked her magic in the kitchen, adding a dash of this and a pinch of that to the pot. She explained to me that the key to her delicious Not-so-Sloppy Joes was a special blend of spices that she had learned from her own grandmother many years ago.

As we sat down to enjoy our meal, I couldn't help but marvel at the rich and savory flavors of the dish. The tangy tomato sauce, the perfectly seasoned ground beef, and the soft, fluffy buns all came together in perfect harmony. It was a meal that was comforting and satisfying in every bite.

I begged Martha to share her recipe with me, and she graciously obliged. She handed me a worn and stained index card, on which the instructions for making Not-so-Sloppy Joes were written in her neat handwriting. I thanked her profusely and promised to treasure the recipe forever.

Over the years, I have made Martha's Not-so-Sloppy Joes countless times, perfecting the recipe and adding my own twists and variations. Each time I make this dish, I am transported back to that sunny afternoon at Martha's cottage, where I first fell in love with its comforting flavors.

The secret to perfect Not-so-Sloppy Joes lies in the careful balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors. It starts with browning ground beef in a skillet, adding onions, garlic, and bell peppers for extra flavor. Then comes the magic touch - a combination of ketchup, mustard, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce, simmered together until the flavors meld into a rich and thick sauce.

I like to serve my Not-so-Sloppy Joes on toasted buns, topped with a generous scoop of the meat mixture and a sprinkle of shredded cheese. The result is a messy, but oh-so-delicious sandwich that never fails to please.

As I sit down to enjoy a plate of Not-so-Sloppy Joes with my family, I can't help but feel grateful for the friendship and culinary wisdom that Martha shared with me all those years ago. This recipe has become a treasured tradition in our household, a reminder of the power of good food and good company to bring joy and comfort to our lives.

So, if you ever find yourself craving a hearty and satisfying meal, look no further than Martha's Not-so-Sloppy Joes. With each bite, you'll taste the love and memories that have been passed down through generations, making this dish truly special and delicious.