Easy Slow Cooker Sloppy Joes for Busy Weeknights

It is 6pm and you are tired. Dinner needs to happen fast. You want something warm and satisfying without the stress.

These Slow Cooker Sloppy Joes are the answer. They are perfect for those busy fall school nights. Your house will smell amazing all afternoon.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

This recipe is a total time-saver for families. You can prep it early and forget it. The slow cooker does the hard work for you.

Kids love the sweet and savory sauce. It is much better than anything from a can. Plus, it is very budget-friendly to make.

Simple Method

Making this dish is incredibly simple. You just brown the meat and toss it in. Beginner cooks can master this easily.

The slow simmer makes the beef very tender. It gives the flavors time to meld together. You will get perfect results every single time.

Ingredients You Will Need

Most of these items are likely in your pantry. Use fresh vegetables for the best crunch.

• 2 lbs lean ground beef
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
• 1 green bell pepper, finely diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1.5 cups ketchup
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 6 hamburger buns

Step-by-Step Directions

1. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef.
2. Drain the excess fat from the skillet carefully.
3. Transfer the beef to your slow cooker insert.
4. Add the onion, bell pepper, and garlic.
5. Whisk ketchup, sugar, mustard, and spices in a bowl.
6. Pour the sauce over the beef and stir well.
7. Cover and cook on Low for 4 hours.
8. Stir again and serve on toasted buns.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

Serve these warm and messy on toasted buns. A side of crispy tater tots is perfect. You could also add a fresh green salad.

For a fun twist, try them over baked potatoes. This is a great way to feed a crowd. Your family will ask for seconds!

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftovers in a sealed container. They stay fresh in the fridge for three days. The flavor actually improves overnight.

You can also freeze the meat mixture easily. Reheat it on the stove with a splash of water. It is a perfect meal prep option.

Tips for Best Results

• Toast your buns to prevent them from getting soggy.
• Do not skip draining the fat from the beef.
• Use lean beef to keep the sauce thick.
• Add a dash of hot sauce for extra kick.
• For back-to-school nights, prep the veggies the day before.
• Double the batch for easy freezer meals later.
• Stir in a little extra ketchup if you like it saucier.

Ways to Switch It Up

• Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken.
• Use red bell peppers for a sweeter flavor.
• Add a handful of shredded cheddar cheese on top.
• Try honey instead of brown sugar for sweetness.

Common Questions

Can I make this on the stove?

Yes, you can simmer it on low heat. It usually takes about 30 minutes. However, the slow cooker makes it extra tender.

Is this recipe spicy?

No, it is very mild and family-friendly. The chili powder adds flavor without the heat. You can adjust the spices to your liking.

I hope these cozy Sloppy Joes make your weeknights easier. There is nothing like a warm meal to bring everyone together. Enjoy every messy bite!

— Lidia

Slow Cooker Homemade Sloppy Joes

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 4 hours hrs

Total Time 4 hours hrs 15 minutes mins

Servings 6 servings

Calories 385 kcal

Ingredients

  

• 2 lbs lean ground beef
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
• 1 green bell pepper, finely diced
• 3 cloves garlic , minced
• 1.5 cups ketchu p
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 0.5 teaspoon sal t
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 6 hamburger bun s

Instructions

 

• In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until no longer pink.
• Drain the excess fat from the skillet and transfer the cooked beef to the slow cooker insert.
• Add the diced onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic to the slow cooker.
• In a separate bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
• Pour the sauce mixture over the beef and vegetables in the slow cooker and stir to combine thoroughly.
• Cover and cook on Low for 4 hours (or High for 2 hours) until the vegetables are tender and the sauce has thickened.
• Stir once more before serving and spoon the mixture onto toasted hamburger buns.