Nothing beats the nostalgic taste of a sloppy joe, but with a lighter, healthier twist!

These Ground Turkey Sloppy Joes bring all the comfort and bold flavors you love, minus the heavy beef.

Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this recipe layers savory ground turkey with a tangy, slightly sweet sauce, served up on soft hamburger buns.

It’s a meal the whole family will love, especially when you want something quick, simple, and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Lean and tasty – Ground turkey keeps it light without sacrificing flavor.

Quick and easy – From start to finish in under 30 minutes.

Loaded with veggies – Onions and green peppers add freshness and texture.

Rich homemade sauce – Sweet, tangy, with just the right kick.

Family-friendly – A guaranteed crowd-pleaser for kids and adults alike.

What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)

Ground turkey – A lean, healthy alternative to ground beef that still absorbs flavors beautifully.

Green bell pepper & yellow onion – Fresh aromatics that give the sauce a vibrant base.

Tomato sauce and ketchup – Together, they build a rich, tangy, and slightly sweet foundation for the sauce.

Brown sugar and mustard – Balance the acidity with sweetness and a subtle tang.

Worcestershire sauce and spices – Bring depth, savoriness, and just a touch of heat.

Soft hamburger buns – The perfect vehicle for all that saucy goodness.

Pro Tips Before You Start

Use fresh veggies – Dice the peppers and onions finely for an even texture.

Don’t skip draining – Removing excess grease keeps the sloppy joe filling from becoming too oily.

Simmer uncovered – Helps thicken the sauce so it clings to the turkey perfectly.

Customize buns – Try brioche or whole wheat buns for extra flavor and texture.

Add toppings – Pickles, sliced cheese, or a dash of hot sauce can elevate your sandwich.

How to Make Ground Turkey Sloppy Joes

Step 1: Cook the Turkey

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Add ground turkey, breaking it up with a spatula.

Cook for 6-8 minutes until browned and cooked through.

Step 2: Sauté the Veggies

Add diced onions and green peppers to the pan.

Cook for 4-5 minutes until soft and fragrant.

Step 3: Drain Excess Grease

Carefully drain any excess fat to keep the filling light and not greasy.

Step 4: Add the Sauce

Stir in tomato sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, mustard.

Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, black pepper, salt, onion powder, and paprika. Mix well and bring to a simmer.

Step 5: Simmer and Thicken

Let the sauce simmer uncovered for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally.

The sauce should thicken and coat the turkey mixture.

Step 6: Serve It Up

Pile the sloppy joe mixture onto your favorite hamburger buns.

Serve hot and enjoy!

What to Serve It With

Classic crispy fries or sweet potato fries

A fresh green salad or coleslaw

Pickles or sliced jalapeños for some crunch and spice

Baked beans or corn on the cob for a BBQ vibe

Variations / Substitutions

Swap ground turkey for chicken or beef if preferred.

Add shredded cheese on top for an ooey-gooey finish.

Make it spicy with cayenne pepper or hot sauce.

Use gluten-free buns or lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.

Bulk it up with finely chopped mushrooms or shredded carrots.

Storage & Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of water if the sauce has thickened too much.

You can freeze the filling for up to 2 months.

Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?
Yes! Ground chicken works well and keeps it light.

How do I keep the buns from getting soggy?
Toast the buns lightly before assembling to add a barrier against moisture.

Can I make this in advance?
Absolutely! Make the filling a day ahead and reheat before serving.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Check your buns and Worcestershire sauce labels, but otherwise it can be made gluten-free.

What kind of buns work best?
Soft brioche or classic hamburger buns both pair nicely.

Can I add vegetables to the sauce?
Yes, finely chopped mushrooms, carrots, or celery can be sautéed with the onions and peppers.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Yes, freeze the filling separately for up to 2 months.

Final Thoughts

These Ground Turkey Sloppy Joes are a delicious way to enjoy a classic comfort food without the heaviness.

They’re quick, flavorful, and easily customizable — perfect for busy weeknights or casual family dinners.

The sauce is tangy and rich, while the lean turkey keeps it healthy and satisfying.

Give this recipe a try and watch it become a family favorite!

The Boat Shed Kitchen