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Healthy Sloppy Joes Recipe

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A wholesome and flavorful recipe for Healthy Sloppy Joes using lean ground beef and a savory tomato-based sauce, served on gluten-free buns or baked sweet potatoes. Perfect for a nutritious weeknight meal with a balance of spices and natural sweetness from maple syrup.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • ½ medium yellow onion, minced
  • ¼ cup finely chopped green bell pepper
  • ½ teaspoon salt (plus more to taste)
  • ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • ¾ cup tomato sauce
  • ¼ cup unsweetened Primal Kitchen ketchup
  • ¼ cup water
  • 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • ¾ teaspoon chili powder
  • 1–2 teaspoons hot sauce (optional)

For Serving

  • 4 gluten free buns or baked sweet potatoes

Instructions

  1. Brown the Meat: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until browned, about 5 minutes. Drain most of the fat, leaving 1 tablespoon in the pan.
  2. Saute the Vegetables: Add minced onion, green bell pepper, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Cook while stirring until vegetables are soft, around 4-5 minutes. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Stir in the Sauce: Add tomato sauce, unsweetened ketchup, water, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, chili powder, and optional hot sauce. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
  4. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 10 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken to desired consistency.
  5. Serve: Taste and adjust salt if needed. Serve the sloppy joe mixture on toasted gluten free buns or over baked sweet potatoes for a hearty meal.

Notes

  • Ensure vegetables are finely chopped for an even texture.
  • Omit maple syrup and serve over baked sweet potatoes for a Whole30 compliant version.
  • Draining fat helps the meat and sauce thicken better at the end.

Find it online: https://flavorspath.com/healthy-sloppy-joes-recipe/