Classic Sloppy Joes

It is super easy to make Classic Sloppy Joes from scratch! This delicious sauce has a perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors. You’ll never buy a can of store bought sauce again!

Ingredients:
1 T olive oil
1 lb. lean ground beef
1 medium yellow onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
8 oz. can tomato sauce
2 T ketchup
1 T brown sugar, packed
1 T tomato paste
1 T Worcestershire sauce
2 t yellow mustard
2 t apple cider vinegar
2 t hot sauce, optional*
½ t kosher salt
¼ t pepper
For Serving:
4 Hamburger buns, toasted (see instructions)

Instructions:
Add the oil to a large nonstick skillet, over high heat. Add the beef, but don’t break it apart yet. Allow a dark brown crust to develop on the bottom of the meat, about 4 minutes. This gives it a hamburger-like texture. Flip the beef, and allow a crust to develop on the reverse side. Once browned, reduce heat to medium high. Add the onions and break the beef apart. Allow the beef to finish cooking through. Drain any excess grease, if necessary. Add the garlic, and cook for 1 minute. Add all remaining ingredients, and stir until heated through, and thickened slightly. Don’t let the sauce reduce too much, especially if you’re going to reheat leftovers. Serving suggestion: Spread butter over the top and bottom of your burger buns, and toast them on a griddle or large skillet prior to serving. This adds nice flavor/texture and prevents the buns from becoming soggy. Serve on buns and top with cheese if desired.

Notes:
Crock Pot Method: Prepare the ground beef, onions, and garlic on the stove top as instructed. Drain any excess grease as needed.
Pro Tip: I like to use this slow cooker as you can brown meat right on the stove top with it. Add the meat to the Crock Pot along with all remaining ingredients. (Minus the buns.) Cook on low for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally if possible. Serve on toasted hamburger buns.
Feel free to top each with a slice of American cheese, or work some cheddar cheese into the meat mixture itself!
Optional Additions: Diced Tomatoes, Bell Peppers, or Celery

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