Introduction

Chili Sloppy Joes are a comforting twist on the classic sandwich, combining savory ground beef with a flavorful chili seasoning and a touch of sweetness. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe is easy to make and sure to satisfy your taste buds.

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
1 diced sweet onion (divided)
2 tablespoons chili seasoning mix
2 tablespoons brown sugar
12 ounces tomato sauce
6 hamburger buns
1/2 cup shredded cheddar (for topping)

Instructions

Step 1: Add the ground beef to a large skillet and cook over medium heat, crumbling the meat as it cooks.
Step 2: When the meat is nearly cooked through, add half of the diced onion and continue cooking until the meat is no longer pink and the onions are soft.
Step 3: Drain the grease from the skillet, then add the chili seasoning mix and brown sugar. Stir well to coat the meat evenly.
Step 4: Stir in the tomato sauce and continue cooking, stirring often, for about 5 minutes to let the flavors combine.
Step 5: Spoon the chili beef mixture onto hamburger buns, then top with shredded cheddar and the remaining diced onions if desired.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, toast the hamburger buns before assembling the sandwiches.
Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Mix in some cooked beans for added texture and fiber.

Storage

Store leftover chili beef mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through. Assemble sandwiches fresh before serving to keep buns from getting soggy.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chili beef mixture a day in advance and reheat it when ready to serve. Keep buns separate until serving.

What can I use instead of hamburger buns?

You can serve this mixture over toasted bread, inside pita pockets, or even on top of a baked potato for a delicious twist.

Chili Sloppy Joes Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 126 reviews

Chili Sloppy Joes are a delicious and easy-to-make twist on the classic sloppy joe sandwich, featuring seasoned ground beef cooked with chili spices, brown sugar, and tomato sauce, served on hamburger buns and topped with shredded cheddar cheese and fresh diced onions for a flavorful and satisfying meal.

Author: Daniel
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Category: Main Dish
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

Meat and Vegetables

1 pound ground beef
1 diced sweet onion (divided)

Seasonings and Sauces

2 tablespoons chili seasoning mix
2 tablespoons brown sugar
12 ounces tomato sauce

Assembly

6 hamburger buns
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for topping)

Instructions

Cook the Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to a large skillet and cook over medium heat, crumbling it as it cooks to ensure even browning.
Add Onions: When the meat is nearly cooked through, add half of the diced sweet onion. Continue cooking until the meat is no longer pink and the onions are soft and translucent.
Drain Grease and Season: Drain any excess grease from the skillet to prevent a greasy sauce. Then add the chili seasoning mix and brown sugar. Stir thoroughly to coat the meat evenly with the seasoning and sugar.
Add Tomato Sauce: Stir in the tomato sauce and continue cooking the mixture over medium heat, stirring often for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
Assemble the Sloppy Joes: Spoon the seasoned meat mixture onto the hamburger buns, then top each sandwich with shredded cheddar cheese and the remaining diced onions as desired for added crunch and flavor.

Notes

You can swap ground beef for ground turkey or plant-based meat for a healthier or vegetarian alternative.
Adjust the chili seasoning mix to control the spiciness according to your preference.
If you like a saucier sloppy joe, add a bit more tomato sauce or a splash of beef broth.
For extra flavor, toast the hamburger buns lightly before assembling.
Leftover filling can be refrigerated and reheated for up to 3 days.

Keywords: Chili Sloppy Joes, sloppy joes, ground beef recipe, quick dinner, sandwich recipe, easy family meal