Name: Healthy Sloppy Joes: 5 Wholesome and Easy Recipes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 16 min
Total time: 26 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 lb ground beef; ½ medium yellow onion, minced; ¼ cup finely chopped green bell pepper; ½ teaspoon salt (plus more to taste); ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper; 2 garlic cloves, minced; ¾ cup tomato sauce; ¼ cup unsweetened Primal Kitchen ketchup; ¼ cup water; 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup; 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar; ¾ teaspoon chili powder; 1–2 teaspoons hot sauce (optional); 4 gluten free buns or baked sweet potatoes

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Healthy Sloppy Joes bring a delightful twist to a classic comfort food. This recipe uses lean ground beef and wholesome ingredients, resulting in a saucy filling that’s both flavorful and nutritious. Ideal for a quick and satisfying dinner, you can serve it on gluten-free buns or baked sweet potatoes, making every bite a wholesome experience. Let’s dive into how to make these delicious treats!

Why You’ll Love This Healthy Sloppy Joes

These Healthy Sloppy Joes are not just tasty; they’re a healthy option for the whole family. Here are some reasons to love them:

Made with lean ground beef, they are a great source of protein.
Quick to prepare, making them perfect for busy weeknights.
Versatile, as you can serve them on whole grain buns or sweet potatoes.
They’re low-calorie, making them suitable for those watching their weight.
Kid-friendly, ensuring even the pickiest eaters will enjoy them.
Easy to customize with your favorite toppings or vegetables.

With just 26 minutes of preparation and cooking time, your dinner could be a nutritious meal that satisfies everyone. They fit perfectly into an American cuisine style while being gluten-free.

Ingredients for Healthy Sloppy Joes

Gather these items:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 lb ground beef
½ medium yellow onion, minced
¼ cup finely chopped green bell pepper
½ teaspoon salt (plus more to taste)
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
2 garlic cloves, minced
¾ cup tomato sauce
¼ cup unsweetened Primal Kitchen ketchup
¼ cup water
1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
¾ teaspoon chili powder
1–2 teaspoons hot sauce (optional)
4 gluten free buns or baked sweet potatoes

How to Make Healthy Sloppy Joes Step-by-Step

Step 1: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and brown the meat, breaking it up with a wooden spatula as it cooks, for about 5 minutes. Drain most of the fat, leaving about 1 tablespoon in the pan to maintain flavor.
Step 2: Add the minced onion, chopped green bell pepper, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir and cook the vegetables until they become soft, about 4 to 5 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 3: Pour in the tomato sauce, unsweetened ketchup, water, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, chili powder, and optional hot sauce. Stir well to combine all the ingredients evenly.
Step 4: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover the skillet and let it cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened to your preferred consistency.
Step 5: Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt if needed. Serve the sloppy joe mixture hot on toasted gluten-free buns or over baked sweet potatoes for a wholesome meal.

Healthy Sloppy Joes: 5 Wholesome and Easy Recipes - Healthy Sloppy Joes - main visual representation

Pro Tips for the Best Healthy Sloppy Joes

Keep these in mind:

For a nutritious Sloppy Joe, consider using ground turkey as a healthier alternative.
Chill the mixture before serving for enhanced flavor.
Serve with fresh veggies on the side for a complete meal.

Best Ways to Serve Healthy Sloppy Joes

Here are a few ideas for serving:

Serve over baked sweet potatoes for a filling side.
Top with shredded lettuce and pickles for some crunch.
Pair with a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

How to Store and Reheat Healthy Sloppy Joes

To store, let the mixture cool and transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals. This makes for great meal prep for busy weeks!

Frequently Asked Questions About Healthy Sloppy Joes

What’s the secret to perfect Healthy Sloppy Joes?

The key is to balance the flavors with a hint of sweetness from maple syrup and acidity from apple cider vinegar. Using lean Sloppy Joes ingredients also helps achieve a deliciously healthy dish.

Can I make Healthy Sloppy Joes ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare and store the filling in advance for up to three days. Just reheat when you’re ready to serve. This is an excellent option for quick healthy Sloppy Joes for dinner.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Healthy Sloppy Joes?

Avoid overcooking the meat and vegetables to maintain their texture. Also, ensure you taste and adjust the seasoning after cooking for the best flavor. This will help you create the best healthy Sloppy Joes recipe.

Variations of Healthy Sloppy Joes You Can Try

Here are some fun twists:

For a vegetarian version, swap the beef with black beans or lentils.
Try using whole grain buns for a healthier twist.
Experiment with different sauces, like BBQ, for varied flavors.

Now that you have all the details, it’s time to whip up these wholesome Sloppy Joes that will satisfy your cravings while keeping it healthy!

Healthy Sloppy Joes: 5 Wholesome and Easy Recipes - Healthy Sloppy Joes - additional detail

For more delicious recipes, check out our recipe category. You can also learn how to make homemade tomato sauce to enhance your dishes. If you’re interested in healthy eating, read about the benefits of onions.