What are the 3 ingredients in a sloppy joe?

The basic easy sloppy joe recipe 3 ingredients includes: Ground beef Ketchup Brown sugar That’s it! These three staples combine to create a rich, tangy, sweet-savory sandwich filling without the need for a seasoning packet or extra condiments.

Can I use tomato sauce instead of ketchup?

Yes, you can substitute ketchup with tomato sauce in your easy sloppy joe recipe 3 ingredients , but: Add a little vinegar and brown sugar to replicate ketchup’s tangy sweetness You may also add a pinch of salt , mustard , or Worcestershire sauce to boost the flavor

Can I make this recipe with ground turkey or chicken?

Absolutely! The easy sloppy joe recipe 3 ingredients works just as well with: Ground turkey Ground chicken Even plant-based crumbles

Is this a kid-friendly recipe?

Yes — this easy sloppy joe recipe 3 ingredients is a hit with kids! It's: Mild, sweet, and comforting Not spicy (unless you choose to spice it up) Quick enough to involve kids in the cooking process

How can I thicken the sloppy joe filling?

If your easy sloppy joe recipe 3 ingredients feels too thin: Let it simmer uncovered for a few more minutes Add a spoonful of tomato paste Mix in a few breadcrumbs or reduce the ketchup slightly

What’s the best bun for sloppy joes?

Your easy sloppy joe recipe 3 ingredients will work with any bun, but these are top picks: Soft hamburger buns Brioche rolls Potato buns Mini slider buns for parties

Can I prep this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, and it’s one of the best features of the easy sloppy joe recipe 3 ingredients : Cook the mix and refrigerate for up to 4 days Or freeze for up to 3 months Reheat in the microwave or on the stove for a fast, homemade meal

Easy Sloppy Joe Recipe 3 Ingredients - Easy Step By Step 🍔

Description

This easy sloppy joe recipe with 3 ingredients is the ultimate weeknight winner—juicy, saucy, sweet-savory, and ready in under 20 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb ground beef
1/2 cup ketchup (or tomato sauce)
2 tablespoons brown sugar
(Optional) salt, pepper, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, diced onion

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Instructions

Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and break it apart as it cooks.
Season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned and no longer pink. Drain grease.
Reduce heat. Stir in ketchup and brown sugar.
Let simmer on low for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Spoon onto toasted hamburger buns and serve warm.

Notes

Add mustard or Worcestershire for a tangy twist.
Make a double batch and freeze in portions.
Toast the buns for extra texture.
Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 sloppy joe
Calories: 354 kcal
Sugar: 11g
Sodium: 507mg
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 31g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 17g
Cholesterol: 53mg