In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook ground beef until it starts to brown. Add onion, green pepper, and garlic. Continue cooking until vegetables are tender and beef is no longer pink. Drain off excess fat.
2. Add the Sauce
Reduce heat to medium. Stir in ketchup, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, brown sugar, vinegar, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix well to coat all the beef evenly.
3. Simmer
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened and flavorful. Taste and adjust seasoning — add more ketchup for sweetness or vinegar for tang.
4. Serve
Spoon the hot mixture onto toasted hamburger buns. Serve immediately with a side of potato chips, fries, or baked beans.
💡 Tips for the Best Sloppy Joes
For a Southern twist, add a splash of hot sauce or a few dashes of liquid smoke.
Want it richer? Replace a few tablespoons of ketchup with BBQ sauce.
Use Hawaiian rolls for a sweet and soft sandwich base.
Would you like me to share a Southern BBQ Sloppy Joe version next — smoky, sweet, and slow-simmered to perfection?
