Amish Sloppy Joes are a comforting, easy-to-make dish featuring ground beef simmered in a tangy, sweet sauce, served on toasted hamburger buns. This classic recipe is perfect for quick weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, and it’s guaranteed to be a hit with kids and adults alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy to make in under 40 minutes.
A perfect balance of savory, tangy, and sweet flavors.

Simple ingredients you likely already have on hand.
Kid-friendly and ideal for family dinners.
Customizable with your favorite toppings or sides.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 pound ground beef
1 small onion, chopped

1 green bell pepper, chopped
1 cup ketchup
1/4 cup brown sugar

1 tablespoon mustard (yellow or Dijon)
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Salt and pepper, to taste

6 hamburger buns

Directions

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

Brown the Beef: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Cook Veggies: Add the chopped onion and green bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

Mix Sauce Ingredients: Stir in the ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well to evenly coat the beef and vegetables.

Step 4: Simmer

Thicken the Sauce: Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the sauce to thicken and the flavors to meld together.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

Toast Buns: Toast the hamburger buns for extra flavor and texture (optional). Spoon a generous portion of the Sloppy Joe mixture onto the bottom half of each bun. Top with the other half of the bun and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Servings: 6 servings

Variations

Cheesy Sloppy Joes: Add shredded cheddar cheese on top of the beef mixture before serving for a cheesy twist.
Spicy Version: Add a splash of hot sauce, diced jalapeños, or red pepper flakes for some heat.

Turkey Sloppy Joes: Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
Extra Veggies: Add shredded carrots, diced zucchini, or mushrooms for added nutrition.
Brioche Buns: Use brioche buns for a richer flavor, or try slider buns for smaller servings.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftover Sloppy Joe mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze the cooked mixture in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of water or ketchup if the mixture has thickened too much.

FAQs

1. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the Sloppy Joe mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it. Reheat when ready to serve.

2. Can I use tomato sauce instead of ketchup?

Ketchup provides sweetness and tang, but you can use tomato sauce and adjust the sweetness with a bit of sugar or honey.

3. Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute the ground beef with plant-based crumbles, lentils, or chopped mushrooms.

4. How can I make the sauce thicker?

Simmer the mixture uncovered for a few extra minutes, or stir in a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water.

5. Can I add cheese?

Absolutely! Melted cheese or a slice of cheddar works wonderfully as a topping.

6. What sides pair well with Amish Sloppy Joes?

Serve with coleslaw, potato chips, fries, or a side salad for a complete meal.

7. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply double all the ingredients and use a larger skillet to accommodate the increased volume.

8. What’s the best way to toast the buns?

Toast buns in a dry skillet or under the broiler for a few minutes until lightly golden.

9. Can I use other types of mustard?

Yes, Dijon or spicy brown mustard adds a different depth of flavor.

10. What’s the difference between Amish Sloppy Joes and traditional ones?

Amish Sloppy Joes often have a sweeter, tangier flavor profile, thanks to the addition of brown sugar and Worcestershire sauce.

Conclusion

Amish Sloppy Joes are the perfect combination of sweet, tangy, and savory, offering a nostalgic comfort food experience that’s easy to make and sure to please. Whether for a quick family dinner or a casual gathering, these sandwiches are guaranteed to be a hit. Whip up a batch today and savor the delicious simplicity!