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The iconic sloppy joe sandwich started out as a loose meat sandwich. Loose meat were very popular in the 1800s as a way to stretch meat. Breadcrumbs and other ingredients were added to make it go even further.
And loose meat sandwiches continue to be an staple in the midwest, especially Iowa where the Maid Rite sandwich is where it all began. They say it’s here, at Ye Old Tavern, that the sloppy joe was born (although there are many other theories). Also called a tavern (after Ye Old Tavern) burger, this loose meat sandwich has a ketchup based sauce that gives it a burst of flavor. Once Manwich launched their canned sauce, the sandwich became a national favorite.
But you don’t need a can of sauce to make these tasty sandwiches. It’s really easy to make it yourself!
The Sauce –
The sauce is so easy!! Simple place all the ingredients into a bowl and
stir well. Make sure to incorporate everything together. That’s it. Now set it aside.
The Filling –
Add a pinch of salt to the beef on both sides before cooking.
Heat a heavy skillet on medium-high. Add the ground beef and cook until it is almost browned.
At this point, add the onion and gently cook until it becomes slightly translucent.
Stir in the sauce and water. Bring to a boil, then cover and reduce heat to low.
Simmer for about 15 to 20 minutes, or until the liquid has evaporated and the sauce is thick.
Heat the buns. We like smaller sandwiches, so I cut hot dog buns in half and warmed them on a hot griddle. You can also warm them in the oven, but I don’t suggest the microwave. It tends to make bread tough.
Serve these sandwiches with lots of meat over warm buns. And enjoy!
© Copyright 2023 The Lazy Gastronome
You don't need a can to make this delicious family favorite!! Just a few things in your pantry and some ground beef and buns. And there you have it!
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1 Tablespoon brown sugar
- 2 Tablespoons worcestershire sauce
- 2 teaspoons yellow mustard
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1-1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 Tablespoons bourbon (optional)
- kosher salt and cracked pepper to taste
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup water
- 4 - 6 hamburger buns (or hot dog buns cut in half)
-
Place all the ingredients into a bowl and stir well. Make sure to incorporate everything together.
Set aside.
-
Add a pinch of salt to both sides of the beef before cooking.
-
Heat a heavy skillet on medium-high. Add the ground beef and cook until it is almost browned.
-
At this point, add the onion and gently cook until it becomes slightly translucent.
-
Stir in the sauce and water. Bring to a boil, then cover and reduce heat to low.
-
Simmer for about 15 to 20 minutes, or until the liquid has evaporated and the sauce is thick.
-
Heat the buns. We like smaller sandwiches, so I cut hot dog buns in half and warmed them on a hot griddle. You can also warm them in the oven, but I don't suggest the microwave. It tends to make bread tough.
-
Serve these sandwiches with lots of meat over warm buns. And enjoy!
© Copyright 2023 The Lazy Gastronome
This looks so much better than what comes in a can!
This recipe sounds absolutely delicious! I can’t wait to give it a try. Thanks for sharing this recipe, it’s going straight to my “must-try” list!
Once the burger is pan cooked, can this all be put together in a slow cooker? Maybe 3 to 4 hours on low?
I don’t see why not. I’d use less water though. The beef will release moisture and a slow cooker doesn’t get hot enough to create any evaporation. If you decide to try it, I’d love to hear how it turned out!
Haven’t had a sloppy Joe since I was a kid, but now I’m thinking it’s time! Sounds great!
We love Sloppy Joes around here. So easy and so delicious. And this recipe got sloppy joes with great flavor. Really good!
I love sloppy joes and these ones were so delicious! Easy to make too which was a bonus.
I never knew what sloppy joes were but it was a great comfort meal.
A tasty recipe for sloppy joes! And a nice alternative to using the canned, store bought version. The touch of maple syrup and brown sugar adds just the right amount of sweetness. I didn’t include bourbon since I didn’t have it on hand, but will try adding it that next time.
That’s the classic sauce I remember!
It is pure comfort to have sloppy joes. This start from scratch sauce is authentic. Wow.
These sloppy joes are the perfect lazy dinner recipe! Super easy to make and absolutely delicious!