Easy Sloppy Joes Recipe For Two (No Canned Sauce)

If you’re looking for a quick and easy meal that’s sure to satisfy, this easy Sloppy Joes recipe for two is your answer. Made with an easy to make homemade sauce it tastes so much better than those cans of sauce that you purchase at the grocery.

Not only are the ingredients simple and readily available, but you can have dinner on the table in only 15 minutes! That is why this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you need something fast, yet delicious.

Like with many recipes, one of the great things about making Sloppy Joes at home is that you can adjust the flavor as desired. Want it spicier or sweeter? Just tweak the recipe to your liking!

But what I love most about this recipe is that the ingredients are most likely already in your kitchen. That means you can throw this recipe together without a lot of hassle of going to the store to buy various ingredients. 

Instead open your refrigerator and pantry and dinner will be ready in no time!

With its mouthwatering combination of ground beef, onions, green peppers, mixed together in a tangy-sweet sauce, you’ll wonder why you haven’t been making this recipe all along. Trust me, it is one of those recipes that you will want to make over and over again!

Why Are They Called Sloppy Joes

You might be wondering where the name “Sloppy Joes” comes from. The origin of the name is a bit unclear, but one popular theory is that it was named after a cook named Joe, who worked at a café in Sioux City, Iowa, back in the 1930s. 

He’s said to have added tomato sauce to his loose meat sandwiches, which made them messy, or “sloppy,” and thus the name Sloppy Joes was born!

However, in my house this popular sandwich as been changed to ‘Sloppy Aarons’. This is because my 2 year old son (at the time) did not want to eat the iconic sandwich because it was for ‘Joe’. And thus began the term in our house, ‘Sloppy Aarons’. 

Why Not To Use A Can of Sloppy Joe Sauce

While it might be tempting to reach for a can of store-bought Sloppy Joe sauce, it’s really not the best option. First, a standard can of sauce is typically meant to serve six servings. 

Therefore if you’re only making enough for two, you’ll end up wasting the rest. Additionally, canned sauces often contain preservatives and other additives, while homemade sauce is fresher and healthier. 

Plus, believe it or not making your own Sloppy Joe sauce can actually be more cost-effective using ingredients that you already have on hand. 

What Ingredients Are Required To Make Sloppy Joes

The ingredients for homemade Sloppy Joe sauce includes ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and brown sugar. The simple ingredients and combination of flavors makes for the perfect sauce.

As for the meat, ground beef is the typical protein of choice. Because this is a small batch recipe, be sure to save the other half a pound of ground beef to make this Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta recipe.

Although you could easily substitute ground turkey, ground chicken, or plant based crumbles if you prefer. Just remember to add a little oil to the skillet when using leaner meats to prevent them from sticking in the pan.

And if you are searching for a no ketchup recipe, be sure to check out this Homemade Sloppy Joes (No Ketchup) Recipe. Although not designed for two, you can cut the ingredients in half.

How To Serve Sloppy Joes

Serving Sloppy Joes is not only easy, but it also allows you to get creative with your presentation and accompaniments. To start, spoon the mouthwatering, saucy meat mixture generously onto a toasted hamburger bun. 

Feel free to experiment with different types of buns like brioche, pretzel, or even whole wheat for a healthier twist. Next, consider adding your favorite toppings to elevate your Sloppy Joes experience. 

Cheese lovers might enjoy a slice of cheddar, Swiss, or pepper jack melted on top of the meat. For added crunch and tanginess, try adding pickles, jalapenos, or banana peppers.

Coleslaw, lettuce, or even caramelized onions can also provide an extra layer of flavor and texture as well. The choices are endless and you can customize each serving to your liking. 

How To Toast Hamburger Buns

Toasting the inside of your hamburger buns is a crucial step to prevent them from becoming soggy when piled high with the Sloppy Joes mixture. To toast your buns, simply heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. 

Then place the buns, cut side down, onto the hot surface. Cook for a minute or two until they’re golden and slightly crispy.

Although you don’t need to spread butter on the inside surface of the buns to get them toasted, you may do so if you wish. This will help the buns become evenly browned on the surface. 

What To Serve With Sloppy Joes

Sloppy Joes make a delicious, filling meal on their own, but you can also serve them alongside your favorite side dishes. Some popular options include coleslaw, pickles, potato chips, fries, or a simple green salad.

This Easy Sloppy Joes Recipe for Two is perfect for those seeking a delicious, homemade, and quick meal. Avoid buying the canned sauce and enjoy a quick and easy homemade sauce instead. 

With options to use different meats, buns, and toppings, you can create the perfect Sloppy Joe to suit your taste buds. Pair it with your favorite sides and serve with toasted buns for a delicious, yet quick and easy meal.

Easy Sloppy Joes Recipe For Two

*A printable recipe card is located at the bottom of this article which contains the specific measurements, temperatures and cook times. However, continue reading below to learn about more helpful tips about this specific recipe.

INGREDIENTS

• 1/2 lb lean ground beef
• 2 tablespoons onions, chopped
• 2 tablespoons green peppers, chopped
• 1⁄2 cup ketchup
• 1 1⁄2 teaspoons prepared yellow mustard
• 1 1⁄2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 1⁄2 teaspoons brown sugar

For Serving

• 2 hamburger buns

INSTRUCTIONS

In a medium size skillet placed over medium-high heat add the ground beef, onion, and green pepper. Cook until the ground beef is no longer pink. Then drain and return the mixture to the skillet.

To make the sloppy Joes sauce add the ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and brown sugar to the skillet and stir. Bring the mixture to a boil then reduce the heat to a simmer.

Cook for 5 minutes, stirring frequently. Serve on toasted hamburger buns or as a topping on a baked potato.

Enjoy! Mary

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