Classic Sloppy Joes: A Flavorful Twist

By Dr. Cindy Tanzar

If you’re a fan of Sloppy Joes, you’re in for a treat! This recipe provides a delightful take on the classic American favorite, and you might just find it to be your new go-to version. Whether you’re going for a low-carb or grain-free meal, these Sloppy Joes can be enjoyed without a bun. Serve them stuffed in bell peppers, wrapped in crisp lettuce, or spooned over cauliflower rice or spaghetti squash for a satisfying and nutritious meal.

Why You’ll Love This Sloppy Joes Recipe

With its hearty flavors and comforting texture, this Sloppy Joe recipe is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner. The combination of fresh vegetables, savory beef or turkey, and a hint of sweetness creates a balanced dish that everyone will enjoy. Plus, the ease of preparation means you can whip this up in no time!

Servings: Makes 4 Servings

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon avocado oil
• 1 pound ground beef or ground turkey
• 1/4 cup onion, diced
• 1/2 cup green bell pepper, diced
• 1 clove of garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup tomato paste
• 1 cup beef broth (like Kettle and Fire for added flavor)
• 2 tablespoons Swerve Brown or Lakanto Golden
• 2 teaspoons red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon yellow mustard or Dijon
• 2 teaspoons coconut aminos or Worcestershire sauce
• Pink Himalayan salt and ground black pepper, to taste

Directions

1. Brown the Meat

Begin by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the avocado oil and the ground beef or ground turkey. As it cooks, break the meat into small pieces, stirring occasionally until it is browned and almost fully cooked.

2. Add the Veggies and Flavorings

Once the meat is nearly cooked through, introduce the diced onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet. Stir everything together to combine and let the vegetables soften for a couple of minutes.

3. Create the Sauce

Next, add the tomato paste, beef broth, Swerve Brown (or Lakanto Golden), vinegar, mustard, and coconut aminos (or Worcestershire sauce). Mix well to ensure all the ingredients are thoroughly combined.

4. Simmer to Perfection

Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Keep it uncovered and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. This will allow the excess liquid to evaporate and the flavors to meld beautifully.

5. Adjust Consistency and Season

If you prefer your Sloppy Joes to be more “loose,” simply add a touch more broth to reach your desired consistency. Season with Pink Himalayan salt and ground black pepper to taste.

Serving Suggestions

These Sloppy Joes are incredibly versatile:

• Bell Peppers: Spoon the mixture into halved bell peppers for a colorful and nutritious presentation.
• Lettuce Wraps: Use large lettuce leaves to create low-carb wraps.
• Over Cauliflower: Serve it atop cauliflower rice or florets for a satisfying and filling dish.
• Spaghetti Squash: Enjoy it over roasted spaghetti squash for a delightful twist.

Final Touch

Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite spices or toppings! Serve it with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal that everyone will love.

Get ready to enjoy a comforting, flavorful dish that brings back memories while keeping it healthy and fresh. Happy cooking!