Imagine a meal that combines the ultimate comfort food with minimal effort and maximum flavor - welcome to the world of Slow Cooker Terrific Sloppy Joes! These aren't just any ordinary sandwiches; they're a flavor explosion that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. With just 10 minutes of prep time and a magical 6-hour slow cooking process, you'll create a meal so deliciously messy and satisfying that it'll become an instant family favorite. Prepare to transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary experience!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 6 hamburger buns
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it into small crumbles. Drain excess fat completely.
- Transfer the browned ground beef to the slow cooker. Add chopped onions and mix thoroughly.
- In a separate mixing bowl, combine ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Whisk together until ingredients are well incorporated.
- Pour the sauce mixture over the ground beef and onions in the slow cooker. Stir to ensure all meat is evenly coated.
- Cover the slow cooker and set to low heat. Cook for 6 hours, allowing flavors to meld and beef to become tender.
- Occasionally stir the mixture during cooking to prevent sticking and ensure even heat distribution.
- About 30 minutes before serving, toast the hamburger buns lightly for added texture.
- When ready to serve, spoon the sloppy joe mixture generously onto each bun. Ensure each serving has an equal amount of meat sauce.
- Optional: Serve with additional sides like coleslaw, pickles, or potato chips for a complete meal.
Tips
- Choose the right ground beef: Opt for 80/20 ground beef for the perfect balance of flavor and moisture.
- Drain fat thoroughly: After browning the beef, ensure you drain all excess fat to prevent a greasy final dish.
- Layer flavors carefully: Whisk the sauce ingredients thoroughly to distribute the brown sugar and Worcestershire sauce evenly.
- Stir occasionally: Don't forget to give your sloppy joe mixture a gentle stir every couple of hours to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Toast those buns: Lightly toasting the hamburger buns adds a delightful crunch and prevents them from getting soggy.
- Make ahead friendly: These sloppy joes actually taste even better the next day, so don't hesitate to make them in advance!
- Customize your toppings: Consider adding shredded cheese, pickles, or even a dash of hot sauce for extra personalization.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 55mg
