Homemade Sloppy Joes

Nothing beats Homemade Sloppy Joes for family dinner. But if you plan for leftovers, you can turn this classic dinner into an easy lunch.

Just switch out a bun for a pita pocket and you have a finger-friendly meal.

While the origins of the Sloppy Joe are somewhat unclear, this dish has been a staple in school cafeterias, diners and family kitchens for generations.

Whether you’re a nostalgic fan of this childhood favorite or you’re new to the Sloppy Joe scene, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite. This post contains affiliate links.

Be sure to check out our best beef recipes, too!

Simple, Family-Friendly Dinner Solutions

During the hustle and bustle of a busy school week, juggling after-school activities, homework, dinners and next day lunch prep can be exhausting.

Finding ways to simplify evenings while running a more efficient kitchen routine can make life more delicious for parents and children alike.

Consider these ways to make family meals work overtime for you.

Plan for leftovers

One easy way to make the most of your time in the evening is to make dinners that serve dual purpose.

Choosing recipes that shine when leftovers are reinvented for lunch the next day.

Making recipes at home is not only healthier than typical restaurant offerings, but leftovers can be perfect for packing in your child’s lunchbox.

Use kid-friendly, better-for-you ingredients

It’s no secret it can be tough to serve smart choices your kids will actually reach for again and again.

Set up a simple toppings bar with a favorite protein, chopped crunchy veggies and simple sauces alongside fun, do-it-yourself foods like stuff-able pita pockets. 

Focus on family favorites

When you’re busy making a meal the whole family loves, your time spent in the kitchen may not feel so much like a drain on the evening.

Throw it back to childhood with these homemade sloppy joes but use pita pockets, an easier-to-eat version with the timeless taste of seasoned beef.

A special thanks to Toufayan for this delicious recipe! Discover more family meal solutions at Toufayan.com.

Homemade Sloppy Joes

Servings: 4

Ingredients for homemade sloppy joes:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/4 cup finely chopped celery
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
• 1/4 cup finely chopped carrot
• 1 clove minced garlic
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon pepper
• 1/4 cup tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon yellow mustard
• 1 cup water
• 4 Toufayan Smart Pockets, any variety

Directions for homemade sloppy joes:

Step 1: In large skillet over medium heat, brown ground beef, celery, onion, carrot, garlic, salt and pepper, breaking up beef until browned and no longer pink, approximately 6-8 minutes.

Step 2: Add tomato paste, brown sugar, vinegar, mustard and water; mix well.

Step 3: Bring to boil, reduce to simmer and cook 15-20 minutes until sauce thickens and flavors meld.

Step 4: Remove from heat; taste and adjust seasonings, if necessary.

Step 5: Divide evenly among pita bread pockets and serve.

Continue to Content

Homemade Sloppy Joes

Yield: 4

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Nothing beats homemade sloppy joes for family dinner. But if you plan for leftovers, you can turn this classic dinner into an easy lunch.

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Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/4 cup finely chopped celery
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
• 1/4 cup finely chopped carrot
• 1 clove minced garlic
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon pepper
• 1/4 cup tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon yellow mustard
• 1 cup water
• 4 Toufayan Smart Pockets, any variety

Instructions

1. In large skillet over medium heat, brown ground beef, celery, onion, carrot, garlic, salt and pepper, breaking up beef until browned and no longer pink, approximately 6-8 minutes.
2. Add tomato paste, brown sugar, vinegar, mustard and water; mix well.
3. Bring to boil, reduce to simmer and cook 15-20 minutes until sauce thickens and flavors meld.
4. Remove from heat; taste and adjust seasonings, if necessary.
5. Divide evenly among pita bread pockets and serve.

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Nutrition Information:

Yield: 4 Serving Size: 1
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 358Total Fat: 20gSaturated Fat: 7gTrans Fat: 1gUnsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 101mgSodium: 405mgCarbohydrates: 12gFiber: 2gSugar: 9gProtein: 32g

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