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Crockpot Sloppy Joes Recipe – Easy Comfort Food Recipes

Name: Crockpot Sloppy Joes Recipe – Easy Comfort Food Recipes
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 20 min
Ingredients: 2 ½ lbs. fresh ground beef; 5 garlic cloves, finely minced; 1 large green bell pepper, chopped; ½ large onion, finely diced; 1 tsp. fine kosher salt; ½ tsp. freshly cracked black pepper; 1½ cups tomato ketchup; 2 Tbsp. packed light brown sugar; 1 Tbsp. Worcestershire sauce; 2 tsp. chili powder; 1 tsp. ground dry mustard; ½ tsp. crushed red pepper flakes; 1 tsp. smoked paprika; 2 Tbsp. unsalted butter; 8 kaiser rolls, sliced in half; 8 slices cheese; Hot sauce; Kettle-cooked potato chips; 8 dill pickle spears; 1 tsp. finely chopped fresh parsley

Kathleen Looney August 17, 2025

Total Time: 2 hrs 20 mins Difficulty: Intermediate

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Before diving into the delightful world of Crockpot Sloppy Joes, let’s chat about what can elevate this dish to greatness. Sloppy Joes are best served with a side that can balance their rich, savory flavor. I often find myself reaching for kettle-cooked potato chips. Their crunch pairs perfectly with the soft, saucy sandwich. A classic coleslaw also adds a refreshing crunch and a bit of tang. If you’re in the mood for something light, crispy pickles work wonders too.

And let’s not forget drinks! A cold soda or an ice-cold lemonade complements the meal well. And for the adults—don’t shy away from pairing them with a chilled beer. The carbonation cuts through the rich goodness of the Sloppy Joes perfectly.

Have you ever been knee-deep in a busy week, craving comfort food, but dread the cooking that comes with it? That was me last Monday. It was late afternoon, I had laundry looming, dishes piling up, and a house that looked like a tornado had passed through. But you know what I had? A trusty Crockpot. Nothing lifts a weight off my shoulders quite like knowing that dinner can practically make itself while I manage my day.

This Crockpot Sloppy Joe recipe is a savior. It’s super easy, requires minimal active cooking time, and results in a hearty meal that will quickly become your go-to. What I love is how the flavors meld together beautifully throughout the slow cooking process. The outcome is a dish brimming with flavor, warmth, and nostalgia. This recipe is not just about eating; it’s a trip down memory lane.

I’ve spent years developing this recipe, which has evolved through testing different ingredients and techniques. And trust me, the magic of cooking in a Crockpot makes everything better!

What’s in My Sloppy Joe Mix?

Let’s break down the ingredients. Using high-quality components makes all the difference in flavor.

Fresh Ground Beef: I opt for 2 ½ pounds of fresh ground beef for that juicy, rich meat base. There’s something about freshly ground beef that adds a depth of flavor and tenderness.

Garlic: I cannot emphasize enough how much I adore garlic. Five finely minced cloves are essential; they infuse a savory aroma that floats through the house, drawing everyone in.

Bell Pepper and Onion: A large green bell pepper and half an onion finely diced give sweet and savory notes, balancing the richness of the beef nicely. Their crunchiness is a welcomed contrast to the minced meat.

Seasonings: Salt and pepper are mandatory, of course. I use a teaspoon of fine kosher salt and half a teaspoon of freshly cracked black pepper. But wait, there’s more! The star players are Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, and a few surprises, including smoked paprika for that smooth taste of smoke that lingers just right.

Tomatoes: I use 1 ½ cups of tomato ketchup to achieve that classic Sloppy Joe sweetness. It’s the comfort food element that makes you reminisce. Trust me, I went through many brands before settling on one that holds that sweet and tangy balance.

Sugar and Vinegar: To elevate the flavors, I add 2 tablespoons of light brown sugar and a touch of chili powder to spice things up without overpowering the classic taste.

Toppings and Rolls: Once your Sloppy Joes are done, pile them high on fresh kaiser rolls, ideally brushed with a bit of unsalted butter. Cheese, hot sauce, and pickles are optional extras, but believe me, they take this dish to another level.

Ingredients List

Here’s what’s in my ultimate Crockpot Sloppy Joes:

2 ½ lbs. fresh ground beef
5 garlic cloves, finely minced
1 large green bell pepper, chopped
½ large onion, finely diced
1 tsp. fine kosher salt
½ tsp. freshly cracked black pepper
1 ½ cups tomato ketchup
2 Tbsp. packed light brown sugar
1 Tbsp. Worcestershire sauce
2 tsp. chili powder (plus extra to taste)
1 tsp. ground dry mustard
½ tsp. crushed red pepper flakes (plus extra for desired heat)
1 tsp. smoked paprika (for subtle smoky depth)
2 Tbsp. unsalted butter (for brushing rolls)
8 kaiser rolls, sliced in half
8 slices cheese (cheddar, American, or pepper jack; optional)
Hot sauce (for drizzling when serving)
Kettle-cooked potato chips (for serving)
8 dill pickle spears (for garnish)
1 tsp. finely chopped fresh parsley (for freshness and color)

How to Make Crockpot Sloppy Joes

Now, let’s get to the good stuff—making these Sloppy Joes. Think of this as an adventure in your kitchen.

Step 1: Brown the Meat

Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Brown the fresh ground beef until it’s no longer pink. This step seals in flavor and helps get rid of excess fat. Drain any grease. I always find this important because nobody wants a greasy sandwich!

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

Once your beef is ready, it’s time to move everything into the Crockpot. Add in the browned beef, garlic, chopped green bell pepper, and the diced onion. The smell? Divine. Stir in the salt, pepper, ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, dry mustard, crushed red pepper, and smoked paprika. Mix it all well.

Step 3: Set the Crockpot

Cover your Crockpot with the lid and cook it on low for about 6-8 hours. Yes, this is the most difficult part: the waiting. But be patient! The longer it cooks, the better it will taste. Trust me, the aroma wafting through your home is worth it.

Step 4: Prepare the Rolls

About 30 minutes before serving, take your kaiser rolls and slice them in half. Brush the insides with melted unsalted butter and place them on a baking sheet. You can toast these in the oven (at 350°F) for about 10 minutes if you prefer them warm and crispy.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

When you’re ready to serve, give the Sloppy Joe mix a good stir. It will be thick and fragrant, and you’ll want to dig right in! Scoop a generous amount onto the bottom half of each roll. Top with cheese if you’re feeling indulgent. Add a drizzle of hot sauce, garnish with parsley, and finish off with a dill pickle spear on the side. Your meal is complete!

Recipe Notes

Let’s dive deeper into some of these key ingredients and why I chose them:

Ground Beef: Lean beef prevents a greasy mixture. It’s best to choose 80/20 for balance.
Tomato Ketchup: The quality of ketchup affects flavor. Opt for one that is not overly sugary.
Onion and Bell Pepper: These add both flavor and texture. You can use red or yellow bell peppers for a twist.

Recipe Variations

While I adore the classic Sloppy Joe recipe, here are some variations that can surprise your palate:

Turkey Sloppy Joes: For a leaner option, substitute ground turkey. It’ll still give you that satisfying texture.
Vegetarian Version: Use lentils or chopped mushrooms instead of meat. You can enhance flavor with added spices.
Spicy Kick: For heat lovers, add jalapeños or a splash of your favorite hot sauce directly into the mixture.
BBQ Style: Replace ketchup with your favorite BBQ sauce for a sweet and tangy experience.
Cheesy Delight: Stir in cream cheese for an ultra-creamy Sloppy Joe mix. This adds a delightful creaminess.
Cuban Influence: Add a teaspoon of cumin and a splash of citrus juice for a zesty twist.

Conclusion

Crockpot Sloppy Joes are more than just a meal; they symbolize comfort, easy cooking, and family gatherings. This recipe is a high-reward solution for anyone with a busy schedule, and it’s flavorful enough to satisfy cravings. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just yourself, the satisfaction of digging into a soft roll overflowing with a savory mixture is truly unbeatable.

So grab your Crockpot, gather those ingredients, and whip up some delightfully messy Sloppy Joes. They’ll quickly become a staple in your home! Let the aroma fill your kitchen and enjoy the little things—especially the wonderful memories tied to a warm

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Crockpot Sloppy Joes Recipe – Easy Comfort Food Recipes

Author: Kathleen Looney Cuisine: American Courses: Main Course

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 20 mins Cook Time 2 hrs Total Time 2 hrs 20 mins

Description

This Crockpot Sloppy Joe recipe is a savior. It's super easy, requires minimal active cooking time, and results in a hearty meal that will quickly become your go-to. What I love is how the flavors meld together beautifully throughout the slow cooking process. The outcome is a dish brimming with flavor, warmth, and nostalgia. This recipe is not just about eating; it's a trip down memory lane.

I've spent years developing this recipe, which has evolved through testing different ingredients and techniques. And trust me, the magic of cooking in a Crockpot makes everything better!