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Ground Beef Sloppy Joes with Pickles

Elina James
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine American
Servings 6 servings
Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • For the Sloppy Joe Filling:
  • 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (85% lean preferred)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • ½ green bell pepper, finely chopped (optional)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • ¾ cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar (adjust to taste)
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon chili powder (optional for spice)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • For Serving:
  • 4–6 hamburger buns, lightly toasted
  • Sliced dill pickles (or bread-and-butter pickles for sweeter flavor)
  • Optional toppings: sliced onions, shredded cheese, or coleslaw

Instructions
 

  • Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef : In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Drain excess fat, leaving about 1 tablespoon in the pan.
  • Step 2: Add the Vegetables : Add the chopped onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic to the pan. Cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring frequently, until softened and fragrant.
  • Step 3: Make the Sauce : Stir in ketchup, tomato paste, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, paprika, and chili powder. Mix well to combine and bring to a gentle simmer. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Step 4: Simmer : Reduce heat to medium-low and let the mixture simmer uncovered for 8–10 minutes. Stir occasionally until the sauce thickens and clings to the beef. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed (add more mustard or sugar for tang/sweetness).
  • Step 5: Assemble the Sloppy Joes : Lightly toast the hamburger buns (this helps them stay firm). Spoon a generous portion of the Sloppy Joe mixture onto the bottom bun. Add sliced dill pickles on top of the meat. Cover with the top bun and serve immediately.