Making Sloppy Joes in a crock pot is a convenient and delicious way to prepare this classic dish. Here's a simple and tasty recipe to follow:
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey for a healthier option)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 small green bell pepper, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3/4 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 tablespoon vinegar (apple cider vinegar works well)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Hamburger buns for serving
Instructions:
In a skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat and transfer the cooked beef to the crock pot.
Add the finely chopped onions, bell pepper, and minced garlic to the crock pot with the cooked beef.
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the ketchup, water, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, vinegar, chili powder, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper until well combined. Pour this sauce mixture over the beef and vegetables in the crock pot.
Stir all the ingredients in the crock pot to ensure everything is well-coated with the sauce.
Cover the crock pot with the lid and cook on low heat for 4 to 6 hours, or on high heat for 2 to 3 hours. This allows the flavors to meld together and the meat and vegetables to become tender.
Once the cooking time is complete, taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
To serve, spoon the Sloppy Joe mixture onto hamburger buns and enjoy!
You can also add some grated cheese or coleslaw on top of the Sloppy Joe mixture for added flavor and texture. This recipe can be easily doubled or adjusted to suit your preferences. Enjoy your delicious and easy-to-make crock pot Sloppy Joes!