Best Ever Sloppy Joes - Cleaned Up

I don't know about you, but I absolutely LOVE Sloppy Joes.  They are one of those things that always taste good and just about everyone enjoys.  We had them at just about every family gathering growing up and I have carried on the tradition.  They are simple and delicious and this cleaned up version is no different.  In fact, no one will ever be able to tell the difference....so it can just be our little secret! 

In our haste to eat this delicious creation, I forgot to get my own picture.  Here is the original recipe. I found it on Pinterest, where else, on A Proverbs 31 Wife.  It doesn't take much to clean it up.

Best Sloppy Joe Recipe:

• 2# hamburger
• 1 chopped onion
• 1 cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons mustard
• 1 1/2 tablespoons vinegar
• 4 tablespoons brown sugar (organic, cane)
• 2 tablespoons Worchestershire sauce (optional)
• salt and pepper to taste

To Clean It Up - 
You can clean this up even more by using ground turkey or chicken.  I usually use a mix of  ground turkey and extra lean ground beef.  I also make sure to use the organic and no sugar added versions of the ketchup and mustard.  If you don't want the added sugar, just leave out the brown sugar.  The Worchestershire sauce is optional, but does give it a nice flavor.  I also added a little fresh minced garlic to the meat while it cooks. If you don't want the added sugar, just leave out the brown sugar as well.

1. Thaw your hamburger ahead of time and put all ingredients into a skillet.


2. Turn your heat to medium and cook. Stir frequently so the hamburger doesn’t fry up in chunks.

3.  Once the hamburger is cooked through, I like to put the lid on the pan and simmer for  about 20 minutes or so.
* If you are a crock pot fan, this recipe can work there as well. Just be sure to mix the meat in with the other ingredients really well. Cook in your crock pot on medium for 5-6 hours.

Find yourself some clean hamburger buns and you are good to go!  Bring on the summer get togethers!