Easy Crock Pot Turkey Sloppy Joes

If you’re looking for a hearty meal that’s both easy to make and delicious, this crockpot turkey recipe is just what you need. It’s a perfect dish that offers all the comfort of sloppy joes but with a healthier twist. Imagine coming home to the rich aroma of slow-cooked turkey, imbued with spices and herbs, ready to serve up to your family and friends.

Growing up, this dish was a staple at our family gatherings. My mother cherished her crockpot, and she had a magical touch with recipes like these that brought everyone to the table. I remember the comforting scent wafting through the house and how we couldn’t wait to dig into our plates. Cooking this recipe now makes me feel connected to those cherished memories and family traditions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This turkey dish is not only simple but also incredibly flavorful and nutritious. By using lean turkey, it fits well into a balanced diet without sacrificing taste. It’s perfect for busy weekdays because the crockpot does all the hard work while you tend to other tasks. The recipe is also versatile—making it ideal for gatherings, game days, or quiet family dinners. Plus, the ingredients are budget-friendly and easy to find in local grocery stores.

Ingredients Notes

Using fresh ground turkey is crucial for the best flavor and texture. If you prefer a spicier kick, you can add cayenne pepper or a dash of chili flakes. The bell peppers not only add color but also a delightful sweetness that balances the savory turkey. When it comes to the buns, whole grain options provide a healthy alternative without compromising on taste.

Recipe Steps

Step 1

Start by browning the ground turkey in a skillet over medium heat. This step helps in caramelizing the meat, locking in flavors, and improving texture. Drain any excess fat and transfer the turkey to your crockpot.

Step 2

Add finely chopped onions, bell peppers, and minced garlic to the turkey in the crockpot. Stir well to combine all the ingredients evenly.

Step 3

Pour in the tomato sauce and chicken broth. Season the mixture with salt, pepper, paprika, and a touch of Worcestershire sauce for a deeper flavor profile. Stir everything together, ensuring the turkey mix is well coated.

Step 4

Set your crockpot to low heat and let it cook for 6 to 8 hours. This slow cooking method allows all the ingredients to meld together, enhancing the overall flavor and texture.

Step 5

Once cooked, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve the turkey sloppy joe mix onto your preferred buns, and it’s ready to eat!

Storage Options

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer shelf life, freeze the cooked turkey mix in portion-sized containers for up to two months. When ready to reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm up on the stove or in a microwave.

Variations & Substitutions

For a vegetarian twist, swap out turkey for a plant-based protein like lentils or quinoa. If you’re aiming to reduce carbohydrates, serve the mixture in lettuce wraps or over a bed of sautéed vegetables. Add some shredded cheese or hot sauce on top for a flavor-packed meal.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is perfect for casual get-togethers or family dinners. Consider serving with a side of coleslaw or a simple green salad to complement the rich flavors. It’s equally great for meal prepping, allowing you to enjoy a fulfilling lunch or dinner throughout the week.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken instead of turkey? Absolutely! Ground chicken is a great substitute and works just as well in absorbing the flavors from the spices and sauce. It provides a slightly different taste but remains just as delicious.

What type of bun works best? While any bun can be used, brioche buns offer a soft and slightly sweet contrast to the savory filling. Whole grain or gluten-free buns are excellent alternatives for dietary needs.

Is it possible to cook this on high heat in the crockpot? Yes, if you are pressed for time, you can set your crockpot to high heat and cook for about 3 to 4 hours. Just ensure to monitor and stir occasionally to prevent sticking and uneven cooking.

Easy Crock Pot Turkey Sloppy Joes

This Easy Crock Pot Turkey Sloppy Joes is a healthier take on a classic comfort food dish, perfect for weeknight dinners with minimal effort and maximum flavor. Ground turkey cooked in a rich, tangy sauce served on soft buns will be loved by everyone!

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Prep Time: 10 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 4 hours hours

Total Time: 4 hours hours 10 minutes minutes

Servings: 6

Calories: 120kcal

Ingredients

 

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Main Ingredients

• ▢ 1.5 pounds ground turkey preferably lean
• ▢ 1 cup chopped onion yellow or white
• ▢ 1 cup ketchup
• ▢ 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• ▢ 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• ▢ 1 tablespoon mustard yellow
• ▢ 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ▢ 0.5 teaspoon salt
• ▢ 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• ▢ 6 [unit] hamburger buns whole wheat or white

Instructions

Preparation Steps

• In a large skillet, brown the ground turkey over medium heat until fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
• Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until the onion is soft and translucent.
• Transfer the cooked turkey and onions to a crock pot.
• Stir in the ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, mustard, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
• Cover and cook on low heat for 4-5 hours.
• Serve the turkey mixture on hamburger buns.

Notes

This dish can be versatile with garnishes such as pickled jalapeños, shredded cheese, or coleslaw. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.