Sloppy Joes, Texas Style — now that’s a bold and beefy twist on a classic! This version amps up the flavor with smoky spices, a touch of heat, and rich tomato goodness, often featuring BBQ sauce or chili powder for that signature Lone Star kick.
🤠 Texas-Style Sloppy Joes
🍽️ Serves: 4–6
⏱️ Ready in: 30–35 minutes
🛒 Ingredients:
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1 lb ground beef (or ground chuck for richer flavor)
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1 small onion, diced
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1 small green bell pepper, diced
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1/2 cup BBQ sauce (smoky or spicy style works great)
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1/4 cup ketchup
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1 tbsp tomato paste
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1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
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1 tsp chili powder
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1/2 tsp smoked paprika
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1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
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Salt & black pepper, to taste
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4–6 burger buns (toasted if you like)
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Optional: sliced pickles, jalapeños, or shredded cheese for topping
🔥 Optional Add-ins:
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A splash of beer for depth (reduce for a minute or two before adding sauces)
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Bacon bits for an even more Southern vibe
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Hot sauce if you like it Texan-level spicy
👩🍳 Directions:
1. Brown the beef:
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook ground beef until browned and crumbly. Drain excess fat if needed.
2. Sauté veggies:
Add diced onion and bell pepper to the skillet. Cook 4–5 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
3. Add seasonings & sauces:
Stir in chili powder, smoked paprika, cayenne, and tomato paste. Cook 1–2 minutes to deepen the flavor.
Add BBQ sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire, and a splash of water (2–3 tbsp) to loosen the mixture. Stir well.
4. Simmer:
Reduce heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thick and saucy. Taste and adjust seasoning.
5. Serve:
Spoon generously onto toasted buns. Top with pickles, jalapeños, or cheese if desired.
🍟 Serve with:
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Sweet potato fries
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Corn on the cob
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Coleslaw
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Dill pickles
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A cold beer or sweet iced tea
🔄 Variations:
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Use ground turkey or bison for a leaner version
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Add beans or corn for a Southwest-style twist
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Make it a Sloppy Joe grilled cheese (yes, it’s amazing)
Want a slow cooker version, slider-style for a party, or a Tex-Mex twist with queso?
