Easy Sloppy Joe Recipe - 3 Ingredients

Finished 3 ingredient sloppy Joe on a bun with a red pot in the background, showing the saucy beef filling.

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Easy Sloppy Joe Recipe - 3 Ingredients

This easy 3 ingredient sloppy Joe recipe is one of my go-to dinners when I need something fast, filling, and budget-friendly. It's made with just ground beef, ketchup, and brown sugar - plus an optional splash of Worcestershire sauce for a savory boost.

Prep Time5

Cook Time10

Total Time15

Course: Main Course, Main dish, meat

Cuisine: American

Servings:

Calories: 465Kcal

Author: Susan Moncrieff

Ingredients

1¼ pounds Ground beef Use your family favorite or what is on sale.
¾ cup Ketchup
2 Tablespoons Brown Sugar Light or dark (or even white if you don't have brown on hand).
1 Tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce Optional - I always like adding it to a beef base dish.

Hamburger Buns

5 Hamburger Buns

Instructions

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned, about 8-10 minutes. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks. If there’s a lot of grease, drain it off before moving on.
Add the ketchup and brown sugar directly into the skillet with the cooked beef. Stir to combine.
Let the mixture simmer over low heat for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. This helps the flavors blend and the sauce thicken just a bit. If you're using Worcestershire sauce, stir that in too.
Serve hot on your favorite hamburger buns. I like using brioche buns from Aldi for a slightly sweet, soft bite that works perfectly with the saucy filling.

Notes

Recipe Tips

If you prefer a less sweet Sloppy Joe, start with just 1 tablespoon of brown sugar and taste before adding more.

Toast your buns if you want a little more texture—just a minute or two in a dry skillet does the trick.

This recipe makes 5 generous sandwiches, using about ¼ pound of meat per serving.

Optional Add-Ins (if you want to go beyond 3 ingredients)

– Add chopped onions or green peppers when browning the beef.
– Stir in a dash of mustard or hot sauce for extra zip.
– Sprinkle in garlic powder or onion powder for more depth.

Storage

Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

You can also freeze the meat mixture in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat as needed—great for quick lunches!

Nutrition (I am not a nutritionist. These are estimates only)