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Easy Copycat Manwich Recipe

Easy Copycat Manwich Recipe

Sweet-tangy, saucy Sloppy Joes made from scratch in one skillet. Weeknight-friendly and kid-approved!
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients
 

Main Ingredients

  • 2 tsp olive oil for sautéing
  • 0.75 cup finely chopped yellow onion
  • 0.5 cup diced green bell pepper
  • 1.5 lb lean ground beef about 90% lean
  • 1.5 tsp minced garlic
  • 1 cup tomato sauce
  • 0.5 cup ketchup
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 0.5 cup water or use low-sodium beef broth
  • 1.5 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tbsp yellow mustard
  • 1.5 tbsp packed brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 0.5 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp kosher salt to taste
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper to taste
  • 0.25 tsp red pepper flakes optional heat

Instructions

Preparation Steps

  • Warm the oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  • Sauté the onion and bell pepper until softened, about 4 minutes.
  • Add the ground beef. Cook, breaking it up, until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
  • Stir in the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
  • Pour in tomato sauce, ketchup, and water. Whisk in tomato paste until smooth.
  • Season with Worcestershire, mustard, brown sugar, vinegar, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  • Simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally, until thick and glossy, 8–12 minutes.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning. Add a splash of water if too thick. Serve on toasted buns.

Notes

Try ground turkey for a lighter take, or add a pinch of chipotle powder for smoky heat. The sauce keeps well refrigerated up to 4 days and freezes for 2 months; rewarm with a splash of water.
This recipe is an original creation inspired by classic Easy Copycat Manwich Recipe flavors. All ingredient ratios and instructions are independently developed.