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Healthy Sloppy Joes

Healthy Sloppy Joes: A Tasty Twist on a Comfort Classic

Healthy Sloppy Joes deliver a wholesome twist on a classic American dish, perfect for busy families.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Olive oil Can substitute with avocado oil
  • 1 cup Tomato sauce Opt for low-sodium for a healthier choice
  • 1/2 cup Unsweetened Primal Kitchen ketchup Homemade ketchup can also work
  • 1/4 cup Pure maple syrup Omit for Whole30
  • 1 tablespoon Apple cider vinegar White vinegar or lemon juice can be used
  • 1 tablespoon Chili powder Adjust to taste or swap for smoked paprika
  • 1 tablespoon Hot sauce Optional, omit for milder version
  • 1/4 cup Water Broth can be used for more flavor
For the Filling
  • 1 pound Ground beef Grass-fed or turkey/chicken for less fat
  • 1 medium Yellow onion Substitute with shallots or leeks if desired
  • 1 medium Green bell pepper Red or yellow bell peppers can be swapped
  • 2 cloves Garlic Garlic powder can be substituted
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Adjust according to preference
  • 1 teaspoon Ground black pepper Freshly ground is recommended
For Serving
  • 4 pieces Gluten-free buns or baked sweet potatoes Provides versatility for serving

Equipment

  • Large Skillet

Method
 

Cooking Steps
  1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef, breaking it apart. Cook for about 5 minutes until nicely browned.
  2. Add diced yellow onion and green bell pepper, stirring frequently. Sauté for 4–5 minutes until softened and translucent.
  3. Add minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Pour in tomato sauce, ketchup, water, maple syrup, and apple cider vinegar. Sprinkle in chili powder and optional hot sauce. Stir well.
  5. Bring to a gentle boil, reduce heat to low, cover and simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  6. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper. Serve on toasted gluten-free buns or over baked sweet potatoes.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 25gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 5gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Chop vegetables finely for even cooking. Drain excess fat after browning meat. Freeze the filling for easy weeknight meals.

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