Sloppy Joe
(Barbecues, Dynamites, Gulash, Sloppy Janes, Slushburgers, Steamers, Wimpies, Yum Yums)
Sloppy Joe is an all-American, simple sandwich consisting of ground beef, onions, seasonings, and tomato sauce or ketchup on a hamburger bun. The sandwich probably started as a variation of the "loose meat" sandwiches that didn't contain tomato sauce.
A popular theory suggests that the original Sloppy Joe was invented by a cook named Joe in a café in Sioux City, Iowa in 1930. Joe added tomato sauce to the "loose meat" sandwiches, and the rest is history. The sandwich is extremely popular with children and is a staple at school cafeterias throughout the United States, but it is also a favorite of parents since it is cheap and very easy to prepare.
Recipe variations
Retro Sloppy Joe
READY IN 35minThe following is a retro 1950s Sloppy Joe recipe from the Los Angeles Times. In this variant, ground beef is cooked on fat and enriched with onions, peppers, tomatoes, and mushrooms, while Worcestershire sauce — a common meat sauce ingredient — is not used in this recipe.
Mild Sloppy Joe
READY IN 40minRich, tasty meat sauce with a hint of sweetness is the main star of this recipe, adapted from tasteofhome.com and published in The Taste of Home Cookbook. Since this version is not too spicy, it will be a great hit with the kids.
Spicy Sloppy Joe
READY IN 35minUpgraded with Tabasco and Worcestershire sauce, this Sloppy Joe recipe was adapted from saveur.com and is perfect for those who like it hot.
Sloppy Joe Authentic recipe
The following is a retro 1950s Sloppy Joe recipe from the Los Angeles Times. In this variant, ground beef is cooked on fat and enriched with onions, peppers, tomatoes, and mushrooms, while Worcestershire sauce — a common meat sauce ingredient — is not used in this recipe.
WHERE TO EAT The best Sloppy Joe in the world (according to food experts)
