Description
These Healthy Sloppy Joes offer a nutritious twist on a classic dish, featuring lean ground turkey or chicken in a savory sauce. Quick and easy to make, they’re perfect for casual dinners and can be tailored with your favorite toppings for added flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound lean ground turkey or chicken
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 bell pepper (red or green), finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar or honey (optional)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Whole grain or gluten-free hamburger buns
- Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and bell pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until softened and the onion is translucent.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Add the ground turkey or chicken to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon to break it up into smaller pieces. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Once the meat is cooked, add the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste. Stir well to combine.
- Add the Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar (if using). Stir to incorporate.
- Sprinkle in the chili powder and smoked paprika. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir until well combined.
- Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- While the filling simmers, prepare the buns. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) if toasting.
- Slice the hamburger buns in half and place them on a baking sheet. Toast in the oven for about 5-7 minutes, or until lightly golden and crispy.
- Once the filling has thickened and the buns are toasted, assemble the Sloppy Joes. Spoon a generous amount of the meat mixture onto the bottom half of each bun.
- Optionally, add fresh parsley or cilantro on top for garnish.
- Top with the other half of the bun and press down gently to secure.
- Repeat for the remaining buns and filling. Serve immediately while warm.
Notes
- These Sloppy Joes are great for casual dinners or gatherings. Serve with sweet potato fries, a fresh salad, or veggie sticks.
- Leftover filling can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
- Customize with toppings like sliced jalapeños, avocado, or cheese for added flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes