Slow Cooker Sloppy Joes

There’s something so comforting about a big batch of Slow Cooker Sloppy Joes bubbling away in the crock pot. It fills the house with a rich, savory aroma, making dinnertime feel effortless. This recipe is perfect for busy days when you want a family-friendly meal that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love These Easy Crockpot Sloppy Joes

Hands-Off Cooking: Just brown the beef, toss everything in the slow cooker, and let it do the work.
Perfect for Meal Prep: Make ahead and store in the fridge or freezer for later.
Customizable: Use ground turkey, chicken, or even make it vegetarian with beans.
Crowd-Pleaser: Great for family dinners, game days, and potlucks.

Ingredients and Substitutions

Main Ingredients:

1 ½ pounds lean ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option)
1 cup chopped onion (white or yellow)
1 cup chopped bell pepper (red, green, yellow, or orange)
½ cup ketchup (or BBQ sauce for extra smoky flavor)
8 oz can tomato sauce
6 oz can tomato paste (adds richness)
¼ cup brown sugar (adjust based on sweetness preference)
2 tablespoons cider vinegar
2 tablespoons yellow mustard
1 tablespoon molasses (optional but adds depth)
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
½ tablespoon liquid smoke (for that classic BBQ touch)
1 teaspoon ancho chili powder (or regular chili powder)
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon garlic powder

How to Make Slow Cooker Sloppy Joes

1: Brown the Ground Beef

Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the lean ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon.
If using ground turkey or ground chicken, add a little oil to prevent sticking.
Drain any excess fat to avoid a greasy sauce.

2: Sauté the Vegetables

Add the chopped onions and bell peppers to the skillet.
Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly softened.
For added depth of flavor, you can also toss in minced garlic or diced mushrooms.

3: Transfer to Slow Cooker

Add the browned beef and vegetable mixture to your slow cooker.
Pour in the ketchup, tomato sauce, and tomato paste.
Stir in the brown sugar, cider vinegar, mustard, molasses, Worcestershire sauce, and liquid smoke.
Season with ancho chili powder, salt, and garlic powder.
Mix everything thoroughly to ensure the flavors blend well.

4: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover and cook on LOW for 3-4 hours or HIGH for 2 hours.
Stir occasionally if possible to prevent sticking.
The sauce will thicken as it cooks, creating the perfect sloppy joe consistency.

5: Serve and Enjoy!

Toast hamburger buns, brioche, or Hawaiian rolls to keep them from getting soggy.
Spoon a generous amount of slow cooker sloppy joe mixture onto each bun.
Serve with your favorite toppings, like shredded cheese, pickles, or crispy fried onions.
Pair with classic sides like fries, coleslaw, or baked beans.

Serving Suggestions

Sloppy Joes are delicious on their own, but pairing them with the right sides makes the meal even better! Here are some great serving ideas:

Classic Sides:
- French fries or sweet potato fries
- Coleslaw for a refreshing crunch
- Corn on the cob for a sweet balance
- Potato chips for an easy, crispy option
Healthier Options:
- Green salad with a light vinaigrette
- Roasted vegetables for extra nutrients
- Steamed broccoli or green beans
Comfort Food Pairings:
- Mac and cheese for a creamy contrast
- Baked beans for a smoky, hearty side
- Garlic bread for a delicious addition

Tips for the Best Sloppy Joes

Toast the Buns: This helps prevent sogginess and adds a nice crunch.
Adjust the Sweetness: Reduce brown sugar for a tangier sauce.
Make It Spicier: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce.
Use a Slotted Spoon: If the mixture is too saucy, let it sit before serving.

FAQs

Can I Make Slow Cooker Sloppy Joes Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can make the mixture ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 5 days. When ready to eat, reheat on the stovetop or in the slow cooker on low.

Can I Freeze Slow Cooker Sloppy Joes?

Absolutely! Here’s how:
. Let the mixture cool completely.
. Transfer to a freezer-safe container.
. Freeze for up to 3 months.
. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

What Are the Best Buns for Sloppy Joes?

. Brioche buns: Soft and slightly sweet.
. Whole wheat buns: A healthier option.
. Hawaiian rolls: Adds a touch of sweetness.
. Classic hamburger buns: Always a great choice.

Can I Make This Recipe Without a Slow Cooker?

Yes! To make it on the stovetop:
. Brown the beef and sauté the veggies as instructed.
. Add the remaining ingredients and simmer on low for 20-30 minutes.
. Stir occasionally until thick and flavorful.

Can I Make This Recipe Healthier?

Yes! Try these swaps:
. Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
. Reduce the brown sugar or use honey.
. Use whole wheat buns.
. Add chopped carrots or zucchini for extra nutrients.

Can I Double the Recipe?

Yes! If using a 6-quart slow cooker, doubling the recipe works great. No need to adjust the cooking time.

Looking for more easy slow cooker meals? Try these:

Try This Easy Crockpot Sloppy Joes Recipe!

Slow Cooker Sloppy Joes are a flavorful, family-friendly meal that’s easy to make. Whether you’re meal prepping or feeding a crowd, this easy crockpot sloppy joes recipe is a must-try. It’s savory, slightly sweet, and packed with bold flavors. Give it a try and let me know how you liked it! Don’t forget to pin this recipe on Pinterest!

Slow Cooker Sloppy Joes Easy Flavorful Dinner

Easy Slow Cooker Sloppy Joes – Family Favorite Recipe

Love this recipe? Pin it on Pinterest so you can find it easily next time