Go Back

Easy 5-Ingredient Sloppy Joes

A quick and tasty classic—ground beef simmers in a sweet-tangy sauce of ketchup, mustard, brown sugar, and Worcestershire, then piled onto toasted buns with melty cheddar. Ready in just 20 minutes with only five pantry staples!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Course: Main Course, Sandwiches
Cuisine: American, Quick & Easy
Calories: 420
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground beef 85–90% lean
  • 3/4 cup ketchup
  • 1/4 cup yellow mustard classic American style
  • 2 Tbsp brown sugar packed
  • 2 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 8 hamburger buns
  • 8 slices cheddar cheese low-moisture for melting

Equipment

  • Large Skillet For cooking the beef mixture
  • Knife & Cutting Board Optional, for buns
  • Wooden spoon or spatula For stirring
  • Measuring Cups & Spoons For precise amounts

Method
 

Brown the Beef:
  1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking up with a spoon, until no pink remains, about 5 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Make the Sauce:
  1. Stir in ketchup, mustard, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce.
  2. Bring mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to medium-low and cook 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
Toast the Buns:
  1. Spoon a generous portion of the beef mixture onto each bottom bun. Top each with a slice of cheddar cheese, then the bun top.
Serve
  1. Serve hot with pickles or coleslaw on the side if desired.

Notes

  1. For extra flavor, stir in ½ tsp smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce.
  2. Swap ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
  3. Leftover meat mixture can be refrigerated up to 3 days and reheated for sandwiches or over rice.
  4. Add diced onions or bell peppers with the beef for more texture and veggies.