Sloppy Joe burgers might not be Greek, but if there’s one thing Greek families know how to cook, it’s ground beef.
From bifteki and soutzoukakia to pastitsio and moussaka, mince has always had a place at the family table. So while this recipe leans more American than Mediterranean, I couldn’t resist giving it a go. Rich beef mince is simmered in a tomato-based sauce until thick, glossy and packed with flavour before being piled onto soft burger buns.
The addition of tomato sauce and a little beef stock takes the filling to another level, creating a deeper, more savoury flavour that tastes like it has been cooking all day.
If you’re looking for a comforting family dinner that feels a little different from your usual burgers, these Sloppy Joe Burgers are well worth trying.
For more ground beef recipes, click here.
Why You’ll Love These Sloppy Joe Burgers
-Made with simple pantry staples
-Rich, savoury and packed with flavour
-Great way to use beef mince
-Easy to make ahead
-Freezer-friendly
-Perfect for feeding a crowd
-Delicious on homemade burger buns
Tips for Making The Best Sloppy Joe Burgers
-Simmering for an hour creates a much richer flavour than the traditional 15-20 minute version.
-If the mixture becomes too thick, add a splash of water and continue cooking.
-Toast the burger buns before serving for added texture.
-Leftovers taste even better the next day.
-Don’t overfill the buns too early or they can become soggy.
What To Serve With Sloppy Joe Burgers?
These Sloppy Joe Burgers pair perfectly with:
-Crispy oven-baked chips
-Potato wedges
-Coleslaw
-Onion Rings
-Pickles
-Sweet potato fries
Sloppy Joe Burgers (Easy Homemade Ground Beef Recipe)
Ingredients
Method
- Heat the olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat.
- Add the onion and cook for 4-5 minutes until softened.
- Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the beef mince and cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks.
- Stir through the passata, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, mustard, smoked paprika, tomato sauce and beef stock cube.
- Mix well to combine.
- Reduce the heat and simmer uncovered for 15-20 minutes.
- For a richer flavour, continue simmering for up to an hour, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of water if the mixture becomes too thick.
- The longer cooking time allows the sauce to develop a deeper flavour and thicker consistency.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Spoon the filling generously onto burger buns and serve immediately.
Notes
Beef Mince
Regular beef mince works best as the small amount of fat helps keep the filling rich and flavourful.Tomato Sauce/Ketchup and Beef Stock
These weren't part of the original Sloppy Joe recipes I came across, but after testing, I found they added extra depth and balance. The tomato sauce/ketchup contributes sweetness and tang, while the beef stock boosts the savoury flavour.Worcestershire Sauce
A small amount goes a long way in adding complexity and richness to the sauce.Smoked Paprika
Adds a subtle smoky flavour that complements the beef beautifully.How To Store Sloppy Joe Burger Filling
Refrigerator
Store leftover filling in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer
Freeze for up to 3 months.
Defrost overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop.
FAQs: Sloppy Joe Burger Recipe
1.What is a Sloppy Joe?
A Sloppy Joe is an American sandwich made with seasoned ground beef simmered in a rich tomato-based sauce and served on a soft bun.
2.Can I make Sloppy Joe filling ahead of time?
Yes. In fact, the flavour improves after sitting overnight, making it a great make-ahead meal.
3.Can I freeze Sloppy Joe filling?
Absolutely. Allow it to cool completely before freezing in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
4.Why is it called a Sloppy Joe?
The name comes from the loose, saucy beef filling that can be a little messy to eat.
5.Can I use lean beef mince?
Yes, although regular beef mince generally produces a richer and more flavourful filling.
6.How do I stop the filling from becoming too thick?
Simply add a splash of water while simmering until you reach your desired consistency.