A Sneaky Mom's Sloppy Joes

I'm always looking for new ways to "sneak" veggies into my kids as well as reducing their sugar intake. This is the perfect way to accomplish both goals while the kids stay none the wiser. I've seen other sloppy joe recipes using carrots and thought, "Why not squash?" The natural sweetness from the squash eliminates the need to add sugar. What parent can't appreciate that? :) My daughter raved about this tweaked version of a classic kids' favorite--so much that she even asked for seconds.

• Ready In: 30 mins
• Serves: 4-6

Ingredients

• 1  lb ground beef, 95% lean
• 1  onion, medium, diced (1 cup)
• 1  cup  butternut squash, peeled and diced
• 2  garlic cloves, minced
• 1  tablespoon olive oil
• 1  cup ketchup
• 1  tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2  tablespoons molasses
• 1  teaspoon liquid smoke
• 1  teaspoon  balsamic vinegar (optional)
• 1⁄2 teaspoon salt
• 1⁄2 teaspoon black pepper

Directions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until glistening hot. Add beef, onion, squash and garlic to the skillet. Cook for 10-15 minutes, occasionally stirring and flipping until meat is fully cooked and browned, and vegetables are tender.
2. Reduce heat to low-medium. Stir in ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, molasses, liquid smoke, vinegar (optional), salt and pepper. Simmer for another five minutes.
3. Serve warm on a bun or without.