Go Back
+ servings

Healthy Sloppy Joes

A healthier alternative to traditional sloppy joes, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil Use high-quality olive oil for sautéing vegetables and browning meat.
  • 1 lb ground beef Choose lean ground beef to keep the dish healthy and flavorful.
  • ½ medium yellow onion minced, adds sweetness and depth to the sauce.
  • ¼ cup green bell pepper finely chopped, brings crunch and freshness.
  • ½ teaspoon salt Essential for enhancing all the flavors.
  • ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper Adds warmth and subtle spice.
  • 2 cloves garlic minced, infuses the dish with aromatic flavor.
  • ¾ cup tomato sauce Key component that forms the base of the sauce.
  • ¼ cup unsweetened Primal Kitchen ketchup Adds sweetness while keeping it healthy.
  • ¼ cup water Helps to adjust the consistency of the sauce.
  • 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup For a touch of natural sweetness.
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar Adds tanginess and brightness.
  • ¾ teaspoon chili powder Introduces mild heat.
  • 1-2 teaspoons hot sauce optional, for extra kick.
  • 4 servings gluten-free buns or baked sweet potatoes For serving.

Method
 

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the ground beef and brown it, breaking it up as it cooks, about 5 minutes. Drain most of the fat, leaving about 1 tablespoon in the pan.
  2. Add the minced onion, finely chopped bell pepper, salt, and pepper to the pan. Stir well and cook until soft, about 4-5 minutes. Add minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds.
  3. Pour in the tomato sauce, unsweetened ketchup, water, pure maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, chili powder, and hot sauce if using. Stir everything together until well combined.
  4. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil before reducing it to a simmer. Cover and cook for around 10 minutes or until thickened. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  5. Once thickened, taste and season with more salt if necessary. Serve on toasted gluten-free buns or over baked sweet potatoes.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 8gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 45mgSodium: 200mgFiber: 2gSugar: 15g

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!