There’s nothing more comforting than a warm, saucy Sloppy Joe piled high on a toasted bun.
This version, made with a Manwich-style sauce, is hearty, tangy, and perfectly balanced between sweet and savory.
It’s quick to make, kid-friendly, and ideal for busy weeknights.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
It’s quick and easy—ready in about 20 minutes.
Uses pantry-friendly ingredients that you probably already have on hand.
Customizable with toppings like cheese, pickles, or extra mustard.
Family-friendly and perfect for casual dinners or gatherings.
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Lean ground beef provides the hearty, savory base.
Tomato sauce and ketchup create a thick, tangy-sweet Manwich-style sauce.
Onion flakes and green pepper add flavor and texture without overpowering.
Celery seed and chili powder bring a hint of spice and depth.
Prepared mustard balances the sauce with tanginess.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Use lean beef to avoid excess grease.
Toast your buns before serving to prevent them from getting soggy.
Simmer long enough to let the flavors meld, but don’t overcook.
Double the batch and freeze half for a quick future meal.
How to Make Sloppy Joe with Manwich Sauce
Step 1 – Cook the beef
In a skillet over medium heat, brown ground beef until no longer pink. Drain excess fat.
Step 2 – Add sauce ingredients
Stir in tomato sauce, ketchup, onion flakes, green pepper, salt, garlic, celery seed, chili powder, and mustard.
Step 3 – Simmer
Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 4 – Serve
Spoon the mixture onto toasted buns. Add toppings if desired, and serve warm.
What to Serve Them With
Pair with French fries, sweet potato fries, or tater tots.
Serve alongside a crisp green salad or coleslaw.
Add baked beans or corn on the cob for a hearty meal.
Variations / Substitutions
Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Swap ketchup for barbecue sauce for a smokier flavor.
Make it spicy with hot sauce, jalapeños, or extra chili powder.
Serve on gluten-free buns or even over rice or baked potatoes.
Storage & Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Freeze the cooked mixture (without buns) for up to 2 months.
FAQs
Can I make this with ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, turkey works well and makes it lighter.
Do I need fresh onions instead of dried onion flakes?
No, dried flakes work fine, but fresh onion adds extra flavor if you prefer.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, the mixture reheats well and tastes even better the next day.
What’s the best way to toast buns?
Lightly butter and toast them in a skillet or oven until golden.
Can I make this spicy?
Yes, add hot sauce, jalapeños, or more chili powder.
Will kids enjoy this recipe?
Definitely—it’s saucy, slightly sweet, and very kid-friendly.
Can I use fresh garlic instead of minced jarred garlic?
Yes, substitute 1–2 fresh cloves, minced.
What side dishes go best with Sloppy Joes?
Fries, salad, coleslaw, corn on the cob, or baked beans.
Can I freeze the mixture?
Yes, freeze cooled beef mixture in portions for up to 2 months.
How do I reheat leftovers?
Warm gently on the stove or microwave until hot, adding a splash of water if too thick.
Final Thoughts
This Sloppy Joe Recipe with Manwich-style sauce is everything you want in a weeknight dinner—quick, saucy, and satisfying.
Whether you serve it with fries, salad, or just on its own, it’s the kind of meal that brings comfort and nostalgia to the table.
