Homemade Crock Pot Sloppy Joes

Homemade crock pot sloppy joes recipe has a sweet and tangy sauce that is incredibly easy to prepare in under 15 minutes. It's a great main dish recipe for busy weeknights, church potlucks, or the big game day with friends.

Course Dinner

Cuisine American

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 4

Total Time 4 15

Servings 1/2 cup servings

Calories 265

Author Gina Dickson

Equipment

Ingredients

2 pounds ground beef 80/20
1/2 cup onion diced
3/4 cup green bell pepper seeded and diced
2 cloves garlic minced
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1/2 cup barbecue sauce
8 ounce tomato sauce 8-ounce can
1/2 cup ketchup
1 tablespoon vinegar
1/3 cup chili sauce
1/3 cup brown sugar

Instructions

Cook Ground Beef and Veggies

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook and crumble the meat until it is browned with no pink showing. Make sure to break apart the ground beef while cooking to achieve a crumbled texture.
2 pounds ground beef
Once the ground beef is cooked, tip the pan to allow the grease to drain to one side. Use paper towels to soak up the excess grease and discard them.
Return the cooked meat to the burner, set the heat to medium, and add the diced green peppers, minced garlic, and chopped onions. Cook, stirring frequently, until the veggies are soft.
1/2 cup onion, 3/4 cup green bell pepper, 2 cloves garlic

Mix Seasonings and Sauces

Pour the meat mixture into the slow cooker.
Add the remaining ingredients.
1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, 1/2 cup barbecue sauce, 8 ounce tomato sauce, 1/2 cup ketchup, 1 tablespoon vinegar, 1/3 cup chili sauce, 1/3 cup brown sugar
Stir and combine: Using a large spoon, stir to combine the sauce and meat thoroughly.
Set the slow cooker on low for 6 hours or high for 4 hours.

Notes

Variations, Substitutions, and Recipe Tips

Dietary Modifications: Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Swap BBQ sauce and ketchup for sugar-free varieties to reduce sugar.

Flavor Enhancements: Add red pepper flakes for heat. Stir in a few tablespoons of hot sauce or a dash of cumin for a twist.

Add-In Options: Finely shredded carrots or zucchini blend in well and add nutrients. Some readers have told me they add a tablespoon of mustard or a splash of soy sauce.

Simple Substitutions: No chili sauce? Use more ketchup with a teaspoon of hot sauce. No brown sugar? Try maple syrup or honey.

Tips For Recipe Success: If you're using frozen ground beef, thaw it fully before browning for the best texture. Pre-chop your peppers and onions the night before to make morning prep faster. Don’t skip draining the grease; it keeps the sauce from getting oily.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

To Store: Let leftovers cool completely. Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days.
To Reheat: Warm on the stovetop over medium-low heat or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each.
To Freeze: Portion cooled sloppy joe mixture into freezer-safe bags. Lay flat to freeze. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in a slow cooker or saucepan.

Nutrition