BBQ Sloppy Joes
Equipment
- Large Skillet or Frying Pan
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Cutting board and knife
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef 80/20 for flavor, or leaner if preferred
- 1 small onion finely diced
- 1 small green bell pepper finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- ¾ cup barbecue sauce your favorite brand or homemade
- ¼ cup ketchup
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp chili powder optional for a bit of heat
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 4 brioche or hamburger buns
- 1 tbsp butter for toasting buns
Instructions
Cook the Meat
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Drain excess grease if necessary.
Sauté the Aromatics
- Add the diced onion and bell pepper to the skillet. Cook for about 3 minutes until they start to soften. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the Sauce
- Reduce heat to medium-low and stir in the barbecue sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, smoked paprika, chili powder (if using), salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine.
Simmer
- Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly. Adjust seasoning if needed.
Toast the Buns
- While the mixture simmers, melt butter in a clean pan or skillet. Toast the buns until golden brown for extra flavor and texture.
Assemble and Serve
- Spoon the BBQ sloppy joe mixture onto the toasted buns and serve immediately.