Barbecue Sloppy Joes Recipe
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Hungry for a tasty meal that’s quick and easy to make? Try these barbecue sloppy joes! You can whip up this yummy dish in just 25 minutes from start to finish. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a fun twist on a classic sandwich.

These sloppy joes blend tangy barbecue sauce with savory ground beef and veggies. The result is a messy, mouthwatering sandwich that’s sure to please kids and adults alike. Serve it on toasted buns with some melted cheese on top for an extra treat. Get ready to dig in and enjoy this comforting meal with a bold barbecue kick!

Exact Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need to make these tasty BBQ sloppy joes:
- 1 1/2 pounds lean ground beef
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/2 cup finely chopped green bell pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 6 hamburger buns
- Shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Make sure to have all these items ready before you start cooking. The prep work is quick and easy – just chop the onion and bell pepper, and mince the garlic.
For the best flavor, pick your favorite BBQ sauce. You can use mild or spicy, depending on your taste. The yellow mustard adds a nice tang, but you can leave it out if you’re not a fan.
Don’t forget to toast your buns for extra yumminess! And if you like cheese, grab some shredded cheddar to sprinkle on top of your sloppy joes.

Instructions
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 1/2 pounds of lean ground beef. Break it up as it cooks until no longer pink. Drain extra fat if needed.
Toss in 1/2 cup chopped onion, 1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper, and 2 minced garlic cloves. Cook for 4-5 minutes until soft.
Mix in 1 cup barbecue sauce, 1/4 cup ketchup, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon yellow mustard, and 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Turn the heat to low. Let it simmer for 5-10 minutes, stirring now and then. The mix should get thick but stay saucy.
Give it a taste. Add more seasoning if you like.
Toast 6 hamburger buns. Scoop the hot sloppy joe mix onto the buns. Top with shredded cheddar cheese if you want.
Grab some napkins and dig in! These messy, tasty sandwiches are best eaten right away while they’re hot.

Possible Substitutes List
You can easily swap out ingredients in this barbecue sloppy joes recipe to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Here are some tasty options:
• Ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a leaner meal
• Lentils or plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian version
• Slider rolls instead of hamburger buns for mini sloppy joes
• Diced carrots or celery in place of bell peppers
• Different BBQ sauce flavors to change up the taste
Try these sauce swaps to mix things up:
- Hickory smoke BBQ sauce for a bolder flavor
- Sweet and tangy sauce if you like it sweeter
- Spicy BBQ sauce to add some heat
For extra flavor, you can add:
• A dash of liquid smoke
• Some chopped jalapeños
• A sprinkle of smoked paprika
Don’t be afraid to get creative with toppings too! Crispy onions, pickles, or coleslaw can add fun crunch and taste to your sloppy joes.
How To Make It Diabetes-Friendly
To make these barbecue sloppy joes more suitable for people with diabetes, you can try a few simple swaps and tricks.
Use extra-lean ground beef or turkey to cut down on fat and calories. This helps keep blood sugar levels steady.
Replace regular buns with whole grain or low-carb options. These have more fiber and fewer carbs.
Cut back on the barbecue sauce and ketchup. Use half the amount called for in the recipe. These often have lots of added sugar.
Add more veggies to bulk up the meal without extra carbs. Try diced zucchini or grated carrots.
Skip the cheese topping or use a small amount of reduced-fat cheese instead.
Serve your sloppy joe with a side salad or roasted veggies. This adds nutrients and helps fill you up.
Here’s a quick guide to portion sizes:
- 1/2 cup meat mixture
- 1 whole grain bun
- 1 cup mixed veggies
Remember to check your blood sugar before and after eating. This helps you learn how different foods affect your body.
Tips, Tricks & Storing
To make the best barbecue sloppy joes, toast your buns before serving. This adds a nice crunch and keeps them from getting soggy. You can also try using different types of buns, like brioche or pretzel rolls, for extra flavor.
For a healthier option, swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. You can even use plant-based meat substitutes if you prefer. Don’t forget to adjust cooking times as needed.
Add some extra veggies to boost nutrition. Grated carrots or zucchini blend in well without changing the taste too much. You can also try diced mushrooms for a meatier texture.
Make a big batch and freeze leftovers for quick meals later. Store cooled sloppy joe mix in airtight containers or freezer bags. It’ll keep for up to 3 months in the freezer.
To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm on the stove or in the microwave. Add a splash of water or broth if it seems dry.
For easy cleanup, use a non-stick pan or cast iron skillet. These help prevent the sauce from sticking and burning.
Serve your sloppy joes with coleslaw, pickles, or potato chips for a classic combo. For a fun twist, try topping with crispy fried onions or jalapeños.