Ultimate Easy Crockpot Sloppy Joes: The Perfect Slow Cooker Family Dinner Recipe
There’s nothing quite like a classic Sloppy Joe sandwich to bring back childhood memories and satisfy a craving for comforting, savory flavors. But what if you could make this beloved dish even easier, with minimal effort and maximum flavor? Enter the Crockpot Sloppy Joes! This recipe transforms ground beef into a sweet, tangy, and deeply savory filling, slow-cooked to perfection and nestled between soft sandwich buns. It’s an absolute staple for busy weeknights, casual gatherings, or any time you need a crowd-pleasing meal that practically cooks itself.
Why This Easy Crockpot Sloppy Joe Recipe Works
Crockpot sloppy joes are seriously simple to make, making them an ideal choice for busy households. The beauty of this recipe lies in its hands-off approach. You’ll spend a quick 15-20 minutes browning the ground beef and sautéing the aromatics like onion and green bell pepper, then simply toss everything into your slow cooker. From there, your crockpot works its magic, simmering the ingredients for hours to develop an incredibly rich, well-rounded flavor that simply can’t be achieved with quicker cooking methods. This extended cooking time allows all the sweet, tangy, and savory notes to meld together perfectly, creating a deeply satisfying meal.
Beyond the ease of preparation, this slow cooker sloppy joe recipe is incredibly versatile and perfect for a variety of occasions. I typically opt for slow cooker sloppy joes when we’re hosting because you can easily double the recipe without having to add too much extra work. It’s perfect for potlucks, game day parties, or a large family dinner, as it keeps warm beautifully, allowing guests to serve themselves. Plus, minimal cleanup compared to stovetop methods means less stress for the host. That’s definitely my kind of meal!
While this crockpot version offers unparalleled convenience, it comes from our classic sloppy joe recipe made in a skillet, which is fantastic for when you need a meal on the table even faster. If you’re a fan of other kitchen gadgets, you can also make Instant Pot sloppy joes if that’s your preferred cooking device, offering yet another quick and delicious option for this family favorite.
Key Ingredients for Homemade Crockpot Sloppy Joes
To make these irresistible crockpot sloppy joes, you’ll need a handful of pantry staples and fresh ingredients that combine to create that iconic sweet and savory flavor. Get all precise measurements, ingredients list, and detailed instructions in the printable recipe card available at the end of this post.
Ingredient Breakdown & Clever Substitutions
Let’s dive deeper into the ingredients and how you can customize your sloppy joes:
- GROUND BEEF – We prefer to use 85% lean ground beef, as it offers a good balance of flavor and not too much excess fat. However, feel free to use what you like best – 80/20 for richer flavor or 90/10 for a leaner option. It’s crucial to properly brown and drain the beef to prevent greasy sloppy joes. For a lighter, healthier alternative, you can easily substitute the ground beef for ground turkey or even ground chicken. Ensure you season ground poultry well, as it can be milder in flavor.
- AROMATICS – Finely chopped onion and green bell pepper form the aromatic base, adding essential flavor and texture. For an even richer depth, consider adding finely diced celery along with the onion and bell pepper. If you’re not a fan of green bell pepper, red or yellow bell pepper can be used for a slightly sweeter touch.
- SAUCE BASE – Our signature sloppy joe sauce is crafted from a delicious blend of brown sugar, classic yellow mustard, and ketchup.
- Ketchup: This provides the classic tangy, tomato-rich base. Use your favorite brand, or even a low-sugar variety if preferred.
- Brown Sugar: Adds that essential sweetness that balances the tang. You can use light or dark brown sugar. For a less sweet version, reduce the amount slightly or substitute with a touch of maple syrup.
- Yellow Mustard: Contributes a subtle, tangy kick that is characteristic of traditional sloppy joes. Dijon mustard can be used for a more gourmet flavor, but yellow mustard truly shines here.
- GARLIC POWDER – A teaspoon of garlic powder adds a wonderful savory element. If you prefer fresh garlic, mince 1-2 cloves and add them to the skillet with the onion and bell pepper during the browning stage.
- SEASONING – Simple salt and pepper are all you need to taste. Always season to your preference.
- WORCESTERSHIRE SAUCE (Optional but Recommended) – A few shakes of Worcestershire sauce can add a fantastic layer of umami and depth to the sauce. It does add more sodium, so we’ve made it optional in this recipe. If you would like to use it, add a few shakes to the ground beef mixture for an extra punch of savory goodness.
- FOR A KICK – If you like your sloppy joes with a bit of a kick, feel free to add a dash or two of your favorite hot sauce, a small can of diced green chiles (drained), or even some finely diced fresh or pickled jalapeños to the mixture. A pinch of chili powder or smoked paprika can also enhance the flavor profile.
- BUNS – Don’t forget the soft sandwich buns! Brioche buns, potato rolls, or classic hamburger buns all work wonderfully. Toasting the buns lightly before serving can add a delightful textural contrast.
How to Make Easy Crockpot Sloppy Joes: Step-by-Step Guide
These step-by-step photos and detailed instructions are here to help you visualize how to make this delicious recipe effortlessly. You can Jump to Recipe to get the printable version of this recipe, complete with precise measurements and instructions at the bottom of the page.
- Brown the Ground Beef & Veggies: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown your ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Once it’s mostly browned, add the chopped onion and green bell pepper to the skillet. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the beef is fully cooked through and the vegetables have softened, typically about 5-7 minutes. It’s crucial to drain off any excess fat from the skillet at this stage to prevent your sloppy joes from being too greasy. This step also ensures the beef has a nice caramelized flavor.
- Combine in the Crockpot: Transfer the browned ground beef and vegetable mixture into your crockpot. Now, add the remaining sauce ingredients: garlic powder, yellow mustard, ketchup, brown sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together thoroughly until the beef is completely coated in the sauce. This ensures all the flavors will meld together beautifully during the slow cooking process.
TIP – For an extra layer of savory depth, some people like to use Worcestershire sauce. It truly enhances the umami flavor. While it does add more sodium, we’ve made it optional in this recipe. If you choose to use it, add about 4-5 shakes (or 1-2 teaspoons) to the ground beef mixture along with the other sauce ingredients before stirring.
- Slow Cook to Perfection: Cover your crockpot with its lid and cook on the LOW setting for a minimum of 4 hours. Cooking on low allows the flavors to truly develop and marry, resulting in a richer, more complex sloppy joe mixture. You can extend the cooking time up to 6 hours on low if you prefer, or cook on high for 2-3 hours if you’re in a bit more of a hurry, though the low setting yields the best flavor. Stir once or twice during cooking if possible, but it’s not strictly necessary.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once cooked, give the sloppy joe mixture a final stir and serve generously on warm sandwich buns. You can lightly toast the buns under the broiler or in a skillet for added texture. Add your favorite toppings and sides, and get ready for a delicious meal!
Frequently Asked Questions & Expert Tips for Sloppy Joes
Storing leftovers properly is key to enjoying your delicious sloppy joes for days to come. Once the sloppy joe mixture has cooled completely, transfer it to an air-tight container. It will keep fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, you can warm it on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, or in the microwave. If the mixture seems a bit thick, add a splash of water or beef broth to help moisten it back to your desired consistency.
Absolutely! Sloppy joes are excellent for meal prepping and freezing. The leftover sloppy joe mixture can be frozen for 3-4 months without sacrificing flavor or texture. Ensure the mixture is fully cooled before transferring it to a freezer-safe air-tight container or heavy-duty freezer bag. Label with the date. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw the mixture overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a little water or broth if needed to restore its saucy texture.
Yes, this recipe is perfect for making ahead! You can brown the beef, onion, and green pepper a day or two in advance. Once cooked, allow the mixture to cool completely before transferring it to an air-tight container and storing it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to cook, simply pop the pre-cooked mixture into the crockpot along with the remaining sauce ingredients and proceed with the cooking instructions as normal. This prep-ahead step significantly cuts down on active cooking time on the day you plan to serve. You can even freeze the browned meat and veggie mixture for later use!
Soft, sturdy buns are ideal for soaking up all that delicious sloppy joe sauce. Classic hamburger buns, brioche buns for a richer flavor, or even potato rolls are excellent choices. Lightly toasting them before serving adds a nice textural contrast and helps them stand up better to the moist filling.
If your sloppy joe mixture is too thin, remove the lid from the crockpot during the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow some of the liquid to evaporate. Alternatively, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water to create a slurry, then stir it into the hot mixture and cook for another 15-20 minutes until thickened. If it’s too thick, simply stir in a splash of water or beef broth until it reaches your desired consistency.
Delicious Serving Suggestions for Your Sloppy Joes
There ya have it, the best crockpot sloppy joes we’ve ever sunk our teeth into. While they’re fantastic on their own, pairing them with the right sides elevates the entire meal. Here are some delicious ideas to round out your sloppy joe feast:
- Classic Sides: You can’t go wrong with crispy french fries, sweet potato fries, crunchy potato chips, or golden tater tots. These salty, fried treats perfectly complement the sweet and savory sloppy joe filling.
- Fresh & Tangy Salads: For a refreshing contrast, serve your sloppy joes with a scoop of creamy coleslaw, classic potato salad, or a zesty pasta salad. The cool, crisp textures and tangy dressings cut through the richness of the meat.
- Green Salads: A simple garden salad with a light vinaigrette is also a great option to add some freshness and vegetables to your plate.
- Toppings Galore: Don’t forget the garnishes! Top your sloppy joes with shredded cheddar cheese, thinly sliced red onion, or a few dill pickle chips for an extra burst of flavor and crunch.
- Beverages: Serve with classic American drinks like lemonade, iced tea, or soda. For adults, a light beer can also pair surprisingly well.
- Don’t Forget the Pickle: A crunchy dill pickle spear on the side is a non-negotiable for many sloppy joe enthusiasts, offering a delightful tangy bite.
- Dessert: Complete your comforting meal with a classic dessert like apple pie, brownies, or a simple scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Explore More Sloppy Joe Recipes
If you’ve fallen in love with these crockpot sloppy joes and are eager to explore more variations of this beloved dish, we’ve got you covered. Check out some of our other fantastic sloppy joe recipes:
- Classic Sloppy Joe – for a quick stovetop version!
- Bacon Sloppy Joes – for an irresistible smoky twist.
- Instant Pot Sloppy Joes – lightning-fast and flavorful.
- Sloppy Joe Cornbread Casserole – a hearty, satisfying baked meal.
- One Pot Sloppy Joe Pasta – a creative and easy pasta dish.
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Crockpot Sloppy Joes
IMPORTANT – There are often Frequently Asked Questions within the blog post that you may find helpful. Simply scroll back up to read them!
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Ingredients
- 2 pounds ground beef we used 85/15, or lean ground turkey for a lighter option
- ½ cup chopped onion yellow or white
- ½ cup chopped green bell pepper or red/yellow bell pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder or 2 cloves fresh minced garlic
- 2 teaspoons yellow mustard
- 1 ½ cups ketchup
- 2 Tablespoons brown sugar light or dark
- salt and pepper to taste
- 4-5 shakes Worcestershire sauce optional, for added depth
- 8 sandwich buns hamburger buns, brioche, or potato rolls
Things You’ll Need
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6 qt Crockpot
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Large skillet
Before You Begin
- We prefer to use 85% lean ground beef for a good balance of flavor and less grease, but feel free to use what you like best. You can easily substitute the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner alternative. Remember to drain off any excess fat after browning.
- If you like your sloppy joes with a bit of a kick, you can always add a dash or two of hot sauce, a can of drained green chiles, or finely diced jalapenos to the mixture along with the other sauce ingredients.
- For even more depth, consider adding a finely diced stalk of celery along with the onion and bell pepper during the browning stage.
Instructions
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In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it apart as it cooks. Once mostly browned, add the chopped onion and green bell pepper. Continue to cook, stirring, until the beef is fully cooked and the vegetables are softened. Drain off any excess fat thoroughly.2 pounds ground beef, 1/2 cup chopped onion, 1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper
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Transfer the browned ground beef mixture to the crockpot. Add the garlic powder, yellow mustard, ketchup, brown sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well combined and the beef is evenly coated.
TIP – For an optional boost of savory flavor, add 4-5 shakes of Worcestershire sauce to the mixture before stirring.
1 teaspoon garlic powder, 2 teaspoons yellow mustard, 1 1/2 cups ketchup, 2 Tablespoons brown sugar, salt and pepper, 4-5 shakes Worcestershire sauce -
Cover the crockpot with its lid and cook on the LOW setting for 4 hours. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to deeply meld together, creating a perfectly saucy and flavorful sloppy joe mixture.
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Once cooked, stir well and serve the hot sloppy joe mixture generously on warm sandwich buns. Enjoy with your favorite sides and toppings!8 sandwich buns
Expert Tips & FAQs
- Storage – Store any cooled leftovers in an air-tight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat the sloppy joe mixture on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or beef broth if needed to keep it moist and saucy.
- Freezing – This recipe is excellent for freezing! The leftover sloppy joe mixture can be frozen for 3-4 months. Allow the mixture to fully cool to room temperature before transferring it to an air-tight, freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Make Ahead – To save time on busy days, you can brown the beef, onion, and green pepper ahead of time. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to a container and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day in advance (or freeze it for longer storage). When ready, simply add this pre-cooked mixture to the crockpot along with the remaining sauce ingredients and cook as directed.
- Adjusting Sweetness/Spiciness: Taste the sauce after adding all ingredients and adjust to your preference. Add more brown sugar for extra sweetness, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.
- Best Buns: Soft hamburger buns, brioche buns, or potato rolls work best. Toasting them lightly adds a nice texture and prevents them from getting too soggy.
Nutrition
The recipes on this blog are tested with a conventional gas oven and gas stovetop. It’s important to note that some ovens, especially as they age, can cook and bake inconsistently. Using an inexpensive oven thermometer can assure you that your oven is truly heating to the proper temperature. If you use a toaster oven or countertop oven, please keep in mind that they may not distribute heat the same as a conventional full sized oven and you may need to adjust your cooking/baking times. In the case of recipes made with a pressure cooker, air fryer, slow cooker, or other appliance, a link to the appliances we use is listed within each respective recipe. For baking recipes where measurements are given by weight, please note that results may not be the same if cups are used instead, and we can’t guarantee success with that method.