Best Ever Sloppy Joes

Submitted by BecR2400

"These really are the best ever sloppy joes! Sassy, tangy, sweet and spicy with a great balance of flavors. Plus, this is a quick 'n easy one dish meal (don't mind the long list of ingredients, it really goes together quickly, I promise). The veggies get "sneaked in" & they contribute mellow depth of flavor, while providing valuable health benefits to your family (and nobody will be the wiser!). :) Serve hot on a warmed hamburger bun (we like soft potato buns) with or without shredded cheese, and a pickle spear on the side is good. YUM! I like to make a double batch, one for now and one for later because leftovers are super fabulous the next day (and it freezes beautifully, as well). Hope you enjoy as much as we do!! :)"

 

• Ready In: 40mins
• Ingredients: 21
• Serves: 4

ingredients

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 -2 1 -2 tablespoon butter or 1 -2 tablespoon shortening
• 3 stalks celery, chopped
• 1⁄2 cup onion, chopped
• 1 -2 small potato, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 1⁄4 cup green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 2 -3 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1⁄4 cup catsup
• 2 tablespoons mustard
• 1 dash all purpose seasoning
• 1 pinch garlic granules
• 1 pinch paprika
• 1 pinch cayenne
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 3 drops liquid smoke
• 1 1⁄2 - 2 tablespoons cider vinegar
• 3⁄4 teaspoon salt
• 1⁄2 teaspoon ground black pepper

directions

1. Preheat a large Dutch oven or saucepan over low heat. Now add the fat to the pan and when melted add the ground beef, celery, onion, carrots, and potato. Cook and stir over medium to medium-high heat until beef is no longer pink; now add the bell peppers and cook until the peppers are softened.
2. Add seasonings and remaining ingredients and stir well. Cover the pan, reduce heat to low and simmer for about 20-25 minutes, stirring every five minutes or so until done to your liking (if Joes are too 'loose' uncover your pan and cook uncovered until the consistency you like).
3. Serve on a warmed hamburger bun with or without shredded cheddar cheese.