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A delicious easy sloppy joe recipe 3 ingredients served on a sesame seed bun with red onion slices, accompanied by a fresh green salad with tomatoes, cheese, and onions on a white plate.

Easy Sloppy Joe Recipe 3 Ingredients

Calista
A hearty sandwich featuring ground meat and a tangy-sweet sauce on a soft bun. This easy sloppy joe recipe 3 ingredients is fast, kid-approved, and can be customized with optional add-ins.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 300 kcal

Equipment

  • Large skillet or frying pan
  • Wooden Spoon or Spatula
  • Measuring cup/spoons
  • Airtight container (for storing leftovers)

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound ground beef or turkey/chicken
  • 1 cup sauce ketchup, barbecue sauce, or preferred tomato-based sauce
  • 4 –6 buns

(Optional) Diced onions, brown sugar, mustard, spices

Instructions
 

  • Brown the Meat: In a hot skillet, cook ground meat until browned and fully cooked (no pink remains). Drain excess fat if desired.
  • Add Sauce: Reduce heat to medium-low and stir in the sauce, coating the meat evenly. Simmer for a few minutes.
  • Season & Thicken: Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or optional add-ins like brown sugar. Let the mixture simmer until it reaches your preferred consistency.
  • Toast & Serve: Lightly toast buns if desired. Spoon the Sloppy Joe mixture onto the buns. Enjoy hot!

Notes

Allergen Alert: Contains wheat (from buns). If you use a gluten-free bun, this recipe can easily become gluten-friendly.
Special Tip: Ground turkey or chicken works well if you want a leaner option—just amp up the seasoning a bit.
Keyword Easy Sloppy Joe Recipe 3 Ingredients, Easy Sloppy Joe Recipe 3 Ingredients no Ketchup, Easy Sloppy Joe Recipe 3 Ingredients with Ketchup