Sometimes it's challenging being a home cook, especially when you are budget-stretched and have a large family. So, when the spending reins need to be pulled in, I reach for my Sloppy Joe Beef Sandwich Recipe.

Until I created my own Sloppy Joe recipe, I used to make these from a seasoning packet from the grocery store. However, the seasoning packets (and Sloppy Joe in a can) contain things on the label I couldn't pronounce. Although they turned out pretty tasty, there was a big difference in flavor when I made my own. They were mega delicious and contain simple, fresh everyday ingredients that are affordable and work within a meager budget.

Using 2 lbs. of meat in this recipe I usually have leftovers for someone in the house the next day. Adjust this to your family size - you will be delighted with this recipe.

Oh! I almost forgot....they are called "Sloppy" for a reason....buy napkins! :)

Please read my notes at the end of the recipe for other ways to use my Sloppy Joe Beef. Enjoy.

Ingredients

2 lbs. ground beef
3 tbsp. olive oil
2 medium yellow onions, diced
2 medium bell peppers (I used red,) diced
4 large cloves of fresh garlic, crushed
2 tsp. kosher salt
1 tsp. ground black pepper
1 6 oz. can tomato paste
+ Water

6 sturdy rolls or buns, toasted
Lettuce, any kind (I use romaine lettuce)
3/4 cup shredded cheese (I used mozzarella)
Garnish - thinly sliced green onions (spring/scallions)optional

Method

1. Heat a large skillet or pan over a high heat for 3-4 minutes and then add the ground beef (in batches if necessary) and brown all over, breaking it up as you go with a wooden, flat edged spoon. Drain each batch and set aside.

2. Heat the olive oil over a medium high heat in the same large skillet used to brown the beef, for 2 minutes. Next, add the onions, bell peppers, crushed garlic, salt and pepper. Stir occasionally and cook until the onions are opaque, approximately 5-8 minutes. Add the ground beef to the pan and mix well. Raise the heat to high.

4. Add the tomato paste and water stirring well until the mixture starts coming to a slow boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer (medium low) and cook uncovered, stirring occasionally for approximately 20 minutes to combine the flavors. Taste and add more salt if you wish.

Note: The Sloppy Joe mixture should be nice and thick with not too much sauce hanging around in the pan. If it looks too wet then just cook it a little more until the meat absorbs the liquid. Alternatively, you can use a strainer spoon to serve the meat from the pan. Dress your sandwich the way you want or follow my suggestion below. Enjoy!

Makes 6 large Sloppy Sandwiches.

Chef's Notes & Tips

I serve these Super Sloppy Joe Beef Sandwiches on toasted buns with romaine lettuce on the bottom as it stops the meat from making the bottom bun too soggy. Alternatively, if you don't want to use lettuce - brush the bun with a little olive oil before toasting and it will act as a barrier for sogginess!

On top of the lettuce or bun goes the meat and then I top it off with some sharp cheddar cheese (shredded or sliced from your local deli,) finishing with the toasted bun on top. You can treat this like a burger and have French fries alongside it or serve a simple garden salad with the dressing of your choice.

Leftover Savory Sloppy Joe Beef mixture is great served dinner plate style, with mashed potatoes and a fresh veggie or two. I have eaten this over yellow and white rice with a sprinkle of cheese on top.

Maybe you can think of other ways to use a main dish in a different way. If so, visit me in the forum (button on the right.) It's easy to register and we can share. See you there.