Hamburger Meat Sloppy Joe Skillet

Name: Hamburger Meat Sloppy Joe Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground hamburger meat; 1 onion, diced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 3/4 cup ketchup; 1/4 cup barbecue sauce; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Optional: sliced bread or cooked rice for serving

Highlighted under: Home Cooking Favorites

I absolutely love making this Hamburger Meat Sloppy Joe Skillet because it’s quick, hearty, and packed with flavor. It’s the perfect weeknight dinner that comes together in under 30 minutes. The sweet and tangy sauce coats the ground beef beautifully, while the veggies add just the right amount of crunch. I usually serve it over a bed of rice, but you can easily enjoy it with bread or on its own. My family can’t get enough of this recipe, and I’m sure yours will love it too!

Created by

Elara Whitfield

Last updated on 2026-02-27T17:05:34.866Z

When I first made this Hamburger Meat Sloppy Joe Skillet, I was amazed at how effortlessly everything came together. I sautéed the onions and bell peppers first, allowing them to soften perfectly before adding the meat. This method ensures that every bite is bursting with flavor, rather than just having a soggy texture.

To enhance the dish, I recommend using a combination of ketchup and barbecue sauce, which adds depth and complexity to the traditional sloppy joe flavor. It's a small tweak, but it makes a world of difference!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Savory and sweet combination that delights the taste buds
Quick and easy preparation that fits into a busy lifestyle
Versatile enough to serve over various bases or in sandwiches

The Role of the Ingredients

Each ingredient in this Hamburger Meat Sloppy Joe Skillet serves a vital purpose in building flavor and texture. The ground hamburger meat provides a rich, savory base, while the vegetables—onion and bell pepper—contribute a necessary sweetness and crunch. The garlic adds a depth of flavor, making each bite more appealing. Ketchup lends sweetness and acidity, while barbecue sauce introduces a smoky dimension that elevates the overall profile. Worcestershire sauce rounds out the flavors with its umami notes, creating a balanced, harmonious dish.

Using fresh ingredients is key to achieving the best results. Opt for fresh onions and bell peppers, as they deliver a crisp texture that frozen alternatives can’t match. If you're short on time, pre-diced vegetables can work as a convenience swap but may lose some freshness. Additionally, using high-quality ketchup and barbecue sauce can significantly enhance the final dish. If you're looking to reduce sweetness, consider using a low-sugar barbecue sauce.

Cooking Techniques for Success

When cooking the vegetables, ensure that your skillet is properly heated before adding the olive oil. You’ll know it’s ready when the oil shimmers lightly. Sauté the onions and bell peppers until they are soft and translucent—this usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Stirring frequently helps prevent sticking and burning, which can lead to an undesirable bitterness in your dish. When adding the garlic, keep an eye on it; garlic cooks quickly and can turn bitter if browned too much, so just a minute is sufficient.

When browning the hamburger meat, spread it out in the skillet to ensure even cooking. This can take around 6-8 minutes. Use a spatula to break it into small pieces, ensuring all sides are cooked through and just slightly crispy. The smell should be savory and slightly caramelized. If you notice excess fat in the skillet, you may want to drain some off, as too much fat can create a greasy end product.

Serving and Storing Your Skillet Dish

This Skillet Sloppy Joe is incredibly versatile for serving. While I love it over a bed of cooked rice, you can also enjoy it on toasted sliced bread or even atop a baked potato. For a lighter alternative, serve it in lettuce wraps. Garnishing with fresh herbs or cheese can elevate the dish further, adding visual appeal and extra flavors. A side of pickles complements the sweet and tangy elements well, balancing the richness of the meat.

If you anticipate having leftovers, this dish stores beautifully in an airtight container. It can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator or can be frozen for longer storage. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to help rehydrate the mixture and keep it from drying out. Just pop it in a skillet over low heat until warmed thoroughly, then serve again over your favorite base or in fresh sandwich rolls.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a delicious Sloppy Joe Skillet!

Ingredients

1 lb ground hamburger meat
1 onion, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
3/4 cup ketchup
1/4 cup barbecue sauce
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
Optional: sliced bread or cooked rice for serving

Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking for maximum efficiency!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Sloppy Joe Skillet.

Cook the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper, sautéing for about 5 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Brown the Meat

Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground hamburger meat to the skillet. Cook until the meat is browned and cooked through, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks.

Add the Sauce

Once the meat is cooked, reduce the heat to medium. Stir in the ketchup, barbecue sauce, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well and let it simmer for about 5 minutes to warm through.

Serve

Serve the Sloppy Joe mixture over sliced bread or cooked rice. Enjoy your hearty meal!

Enjoy this delicious meal with your favorite sides!

Pro Tips

Try adding a teaspoon of chili powder for a spicy kick, or mix in some shredded cheese for a cheesy twist on the classic Sloppy Joe.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to make this dish a bit healthier, consider swapping the ground hamburger meat for lean ground turkey or chicken. These options provide a similar texture with less fat. Alternatively, for a vegetarian version, crumbled tempeh or lentils can be excellent substitutes. They will allow you to still capture the hearty essence of the dish while offering plant-based protein.

For a richer flavor profile, you might also experiment with different types of sauces. Adding a touch of hot sauce to the mixture can give it a nice kick if you enjoy some heat. For those who prefer a smoky flavor, try using chipotle in adobo sauce blended into your barbecue sauce.

Make-Ahead Tips

This Skillet Sloppy Joe can easily be made ahead of time, making it an excellent option for meal prep. You can prepare the entire dish and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze individual portions for later consumption. If you decide to freeze the dish, use a freezer-safe container to prevent freezer burn.

To reheat, just thaw in the refrigerator overnight and heat it slowly on the stove. You can add a bit of water or broth to maintain moisture. If you're in a rush, the microwave can also work—just keep it covered to avoid splatters and heat in short intervals, stirring in between.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your Sloppy Joe mixture turns out too runny, simply increase the heat to medium-high and allow it to simmer uncovered for a few more minutes. This will help the excess liquid evaporate and thicken the sauce. Another tip is to adjust the balance of flavors; if it’s too sweet, a small splash of vinegar or a pinch of salt can help bring the flavors back into balance.

On the other hand, if your sauce is too thick, adding a bit of water, broth, or extra ketchup can help achieve the desired consistency. Remember to taste the mixture when adjusting seasoning, and don’t be afraid to customize it to your palate—cooking should be an enjoyable, tasty adventure!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the Sloppy Joe mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat before serving.

→ What are some good side dishes to serve with Sloppy Joes?

French fries, coleslaw, or a simple green salad pair wonderfully with Sloppy Joes.

→ Can I use turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option while maintaining the same delicious flavor.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Let the sloppy joe mixture cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.