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Easy Slow Cooker Sloppy Joes

Easy Slow Cooker Sloppy Joes

Hearty, saucy Slow Cooker Sloppy Joes with bold, tangy-sweet flavor and minimal prep. Perfect for busy weeknights or game day.
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Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 5 hours
Total Time: 5 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 8

Ingredients
 

Main Ingredients

  • 2 lb lean ground beef
  • 1.25 cup diced yellow onion
  • 0.75 cup diced green bell pepper
  • 1 tbsp minced garlic
  • 15 oz tomato sauce
  • 0.75 cup ketchup
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 2.5 tbsp packed brown sugar
  • 1.5 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1.5 tbsp yellow mustard
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1.5 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1.25 tsp kosher salt adjust to taste
  • 0.75 tsp black pepper
  • 0.25 tsp red pepper flakes optional, for heat

Instructions

Preparation Steps

  • Chop the onion and bell pepper; mince the garlic.
  • Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess fat.
  • Transfer the beef to the slow cooker. Add onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Stir to combine.
  • Whisk together tomato sauce, ketchup, tomato paste, brown sugar, Worcestershire, mustard, vinegar, chili powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
  • Pour the sauce into the slow cooker and mix well to coat the beef and vegetables.
  • Cover and cook on LOW for about 5 hours, stirring once halfway through.
  • If you prefer a thicker mix, uncover for the last 20 minutes to let it reduce slightly.
  • Spoon onto toasted hamburger buns and serve warm.

Notes

Variation: Swap half the beef for ground turkey, or add 1 cup finely diced mushrooms to stretch the mixture. For a sweeter vibe, stir in 1–2 tablespoons of your favorite BBQ sauce. Leftovers keep 4 days refrigerated or freeze up to 3 months; reheat gently and splash in a little water if needed.
This recipe is an original creation inspired by classic Easy Slow Cooker Sloppy Joes flavors. All ingredient ratios and instructions are independently developed.