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Juicy Sloppy Sauce Beef Sandwich overflowing with rich, tangy sauce on a toasted brioche bun.

Best Sloppy Sauce Beef Sandwich


  • Author: Velma
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 sandwiches 1x

Description

This Sloppy Sauce Beef Sandwich takes the beloved sloppy joe concept up a notch. Ground beef is simmered in a bold, savory-sweet sauce with just the right touch of spice, then piled high on toasted buns for the ultimate messy, mouthwatering sandwich experience.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 small green bell pepper, finely chopped (optional)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (if using lean beef)

For the Sloppy Sauce

  • ½ cup ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • Salt to taste
  • Optional: pinch of cayenne or hot sauce for heat
  • ¼ cup water or beef broth (for thinning the sauce)

For Serving

  • 4 hamburger buns, toasted
  • Pickles, coleslaw, or cheese slices (optional toppings)

Instructions

1. Cook the Beef Mixture

  • In a skillet over medium heat, sauté onion and bell pepper in oil for 2–3 minutes.
  • Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
  • Add ground beef and cook until browned and crumbly. Drain excess fat if needed.

2. Add the Sloppy Sauce

  • Stir in ketchup, tomato paste, Worcestershire, mustard, brown sugar, paprika, pepper, and salt.
  • Add a splash of water or broth to loosen the mixture.
  • Simmer for 5–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thick and glossy.

3. Assemble the Sandwiches

  • Toast buns for extra texture.
  • Pile the sloppy beef mixture high onto the bottom half.
  • Top with pickles, cheese, or coleslaw if desired.
  • Add the top bun and serve immediately with napkins!

Notes

  • Add Veggies: Grated carrots or mushrooms blend well and add moisture
  • Cheesy Twist: Add a slice of cheddar or pepper jack before topping
  • Spicy Version: Use hot sauce, chipotle, or jalapeños
  • Make It Lighter: Use ground turkey or plant-based crumbles
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Sandwich Recipes
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Calories: 510 kcal
  • Sugar: 12 g
  • Sodium: 720 mg
  • Fat: 25 g
  • Saturated Fat: 8 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 45 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 26 g
  • Cholesterol: 75 mg