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The Boat Shed Kitchen

Sloppy Joe mix

This easy homemade Sloppy Joe mix combines ground beef, ketchup, spices, and a touch of heat for a perfectly balanced, sweet-and-savory sandwich filling. Ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 sandwiches
Calories: 380
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • ½ cup onion diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • ¾ cup water divided
  • ⅔ cup ketchup
  • 2 dashes Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp cider vinegar
  • 1 tsp sriracha

Method
 

  1. Heat skillet on medium-high; sauté ground beef and onions until beef is broken into small bits and onions are translucent (~6 minutes).
  2. Add garlic; cook until fragrant (~1-2 minutes).
  3. Pour half the water in; scrape pan.
  4. Add ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, salt, and pepper; simmer 3 minutes.
  5. Add remaining water; lower heat to medium; simmer 12–15 minutes, stirring frequently until thickened.
  6. Stir in sriracha and cider vinegar. Let sit for a couple minutes before serving.
  7. See full steps with tips & photos → https://theboatshedcafe.com/sloppy-joe-mix/

Notes

• Use lean ground beef for less grease and a smoother texture.
• Toasted buns make the sloppy joes even better (and less soggy!).
• Sriracha adds a mild kick—you can adjust it to your spice preference.