Sloppy Joes are a classic American comfort food, and when you add a hint of sweetness and the hands-off convenience of a slow cooker, they become even better. This Crock-Pot Sweet Sloppy Joes recipe transforms basic ground beef into a saucy, tender, sweet-savory sandwich filling that’s ideal for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend dinners. It’s a hit with kids and adults alike, thanks to its well-balanced flavor and hearty texture.
Instead of simmering on the stovetop, this version lets your Crock-Pot do all the work. With the help of onion, celery, ketchup, mustard, and a touch of brown sugar, you get rich, layered flavors without standing over the stove.
Perfect served on a toasted bun with crispy fries, chips, or even a scoop of coleslaw, this dish is bound to become a family favorite. Whether you’re prepping for a potluck or just looking for a no-fuss meal, these Sweet Sloppy Joes are your new go-to recipe. Just toss in the ingredients, stir, and let the slow cooker do the rest.
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The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together, creating a rich and robust sauce that permeates every morsel of the meat. As the Crock-Pot works its magic, the meat becomes tender and succulent, absorbing all the wonderful flavors from the aromatic sauce.
What sets this Sweet Sloppy Joes recipe apart is the delightful twist of sweetness. The addition of brown sugar, molasses, or honey adds depth and complexity to the flavor profile, perfectly balancing the savory elements and bringing a hint of caramelized sweetness to each bite. It’s a symphony of flavors that will have you savoring every mouthwatering moment.
Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering, planning a family dinner, or simply craving a comforting and satisfying meal, the Crock-Pot Sweet Sloppy Joes recipe is sure to please. The convenience of the slow cooker allows you to set it and forget it, giving you more time to relax and enjoy the anticipation of the flavors developing.
As you take your first bite of the Crock-Pot Sweet Sloppy Joes, you’ll be greeted with a medley of textures and flavors—a soft bun, a savory and slightly sweet filling, and a burst of tanginess from optional toppings such as pickles or coleslaw. The combination is simply irresistible.
So, why settle for ordinary Sloppy Joes when you can elevate your culinary experience with the Crock-Pot Sweet Sloppy Joes recipe? Indulge in the perfect balance of savory and sweet flavors, tender meat, and a saucy delight that will satisfy your cravings and warm your soul. Get ready to savor each delectable bite and discover a new level of Sloppy Joes bliss.
Ingredients
- 1 Pound Extra Lean Ground Beef
- 1 Medium Yellow Onion Chopped
- 1 Rib Celery Sliced Thin
- 3/4 Cup Ketchup
- 1/2 Teaspoon Prepared Yellow Mustard
- 1 Tablespoon Brown Sugar
- 1/4 Teaspoon Kosher Salt
- 1/4 Teaspoon Freshly Ground Black Pepper
Instructions:
1 ) In a large skillet on medium-high heat, brown ground beef on the stove top. Drain off excess fat and add cooked meat to a 5 quart or larger slow cooker.
2 ) Add remaining ingredients to the slow cooker and stir to combine.
3 ) Cover and cook on LOW for 4 hours.
4 ) Spoon finished Sloppy Joe meat mixture onto hamburger buns and enjoy!
Servings: 6 People
Prep Time 20Minutes
Cook Time 4Hours On LOW
Recipe Notes:
We like Schar Classic White Rolls for gluten-free hamburger buns.
Nutrition information is based on recipe for the Sloppy Joe filling and does not include the bun or bread that you may serve it on.
Nutrition Information
Calories: 168kcal, Total Fat: 5g, Saturated Fat: 2g, Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.02g, Monounsaturated Fat: 0.01g, Cholesterol: 47mg, Sodium: 421mg, Potassium: 50mg, Carbohydrates: 13g, Dietary Fiber: 0.4g, Sugars: 10g, Protein: 16g, Vitamin A: 4%, Vitamin C: 6%, Calcium: 1%, Iron: 11%
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Pro Tips for Perfect Sweet Sloppy Joes:
- Brown the meat first – Always brown and drain your ground beef before adding it to the Crock-Pot to avoid excess grease and achieve the best texture.
- Dice veggies finely – Small, uniform pieces of onion and celery ensure even cooking and better flavor distribution.
- Double for leftovers – Make a double batch and freeze half—it reheats beautifully and works great as a next-day lunch.
- Add a zing – For older kids or grown-up palates, toss in a splash of apple cider vinegar or a pinch of chili flakes for added depth.
- Customize your buns – Brioche, pretzel, or classic sesame seed buns all pair wonderfully with this sweet and tangy filling.
FAQ:
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
- Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are great leaner options and still soak up the flavors beautifully.
How long should I cook Sweet Sloppy Joes in the Crock-Pot?
- Cook on LOW for 4–6 hours or HIGH for 2–3 hours, stirring occasionally for best texture.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
- Yes! You can cook the meat mixture and refrigerate it for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 2 months.
How do I keep the sandwiches from getting soggy?
- Toast the buns lightly before serving or serve the filling on the side for a DIY sandwich bar.
What sides go well with Sweet Sloppy Joes?
- Classic choices include potato chips, baked fries, coleslaw, or a crisp green salad.
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