Sloppy Joe Bowls

An easy dinner idea is here with Sloppy Joe Bowls! These bowls are perfect for weeknight meals, gatherings, or meal prep. Filled with robust flavors and wholesome ingredients, they offer a delicious twist on the classic sloppy joe. Enjoy them for a hearty family dinner that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Simple: With just 25 minutes of cooking time, this recipe fits perfectly into busy schedules.
• Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of ground beef and spices creates a mouthwatering filling that pairs perfectly with sweet potatoes.
• Healthy Ingredients: Made with real foods, this recipe avoids processed ingredients while being paleo and gluten-free.
• Customizable Toppings: Add your favorite toppings like pickles or pickled onions to make each bowl uniquely yours.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Easily double the recipe for leftovers or meal prep for the week.

Tools and Preparation

Preparing Sloppy Joe Bowls requires minimal equipment, making it easier than ever. Here’s what you’ll need to ensure your cooking experience is smooth.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Cast iron skillet
• Baking sheet
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Cast iron skillet: Provides excellent heat retention and distribution, ensuring even cooking for your beef mixture.
• Baking sheet: Ideal for roasting sweet potato slices evenly without overcrowding.

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Ingredients

An easy, delicious dinner idea that is paleo, Whole30, and gluten-free! Made with simple, real ingredients!

For the Sweet Potatoes

• 1 large sweet potato, cut into 1/4 inch slices
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil (sub avocado oil)
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt

For the Sloppy Joe Mixture

• 2 tablespoons ghee or olive oil
• 1-2 tablespoons garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup yellow onion, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, diced
• 1/2 – 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 teaspoon dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
• 3 tablespoons paleo ketchup
• 2 tablespoons coconut aminos
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar

For Toppings

• Dijon mustard
• Sliced pickles
• Pickled red onions

How to Make Sloppy Joe Bowls

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 415 degrees F to prepare for roasting the sweet potatoes.

Step 2: Prepare Sweet Potatoes

Place your sweet potato slices on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and massage to coat both sides. Sprinkle with kosher salt.

Step 3: Roast Sweet Potatoes

Place in the oven on the middle rack and let roast for 10-12 minutes or until firm but tender.

Step 4: Cook Aromatics

Meanwhile, bring a large cast iron skillet to medium-high heat. Add ghee or oil and swirl to coat the pan. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 10-20 seconds.

Step 5: Sauté Onions and Peppers

Add yellow onion, red onion, and diced bell pepper. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onions soften.

Step 6: Cook Ground Beef

Add ground beef to the pan. Cook thoroughly for about 5-10 minutes while stirring occasionally. Drain excess grease from the pan.

Step 7: Add Sauces and Spices

Mix in dijon mustard, yellow mustard, ketchup, coconut aminos, kosher salt, black pepper, tomato paste, chili powder, and apple cider vinegar. Stir until well combined.

Step 8: Adjust Consistency (Optional)

If you prefer a saucier mixture, add more ketchup and tomato paste. Adjust seasoning as desired.

Step 9: Assemble Your Bowls

Place roasted sweet potato slices in a bowl. Top with sloppy joe mixture and garnish with sliced pickles, pickled onions, and an extra drizzle of dijon mustard. Enjoy!

How to Serve Sloppy Joe Bowls

Sloppy Joe Bowls are a versatile dish that can be customized to suit various tastes. Whether you prefer a simple presentation or want to add more flair, there are plenty of ways to serve this delicious meal.

Classic Serving Suggestion

• Serve the Sloppy Joe mixture over a bed of roasted sweet potato slices for a hearty meal.

Toppings Galore

• Add sliced pickles and pickled red onions on top for an extra crunch and tangy flavor.

Fresh Herb Garnish

• Sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for added freshness and color.

Avocado Slices

• Include creamy avocado slices to enhance the richness and provide healthy fats.

Make It a Salad

• Serve the Sloppy Joe mixture atop a bed of mixed greens for a lighter, salad-like option.

Family Style

• Set up a DIY bar with all components so everyone can customize their own bowls according to their preferences.

How to Perfect Sloppy Joe Bowls

Creating the perfect Sloppy Joe Bowls is all about balancing flavors and textures. Here are some handy tips to ensure your dish shines.

• Choose Quality Meat: Opt for grass-fed ground beef for richer flavor and better quality.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! Feel free to adjust salt, pepper, or spices based on your preference.
• Experiment with Sauces: Try different types of mustard or even BBQ sauce for unique twists.
• Layer Flavors: Sauté vegetables longer for deeper flavors before adding meat.
• Let It Simmer: Allow the mixture to simmer longer for better integration of flavors.
• Garnish Thoughtfully: Don’t skip garnishes; they make a big difference in presentation and taste.

Best Side Dishes for Sloppy Joe Bowls

Pairing sides with your Sloppy Joe Bowls can elevate the meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies like zucchini and bell peppers adds color and nutrients.
2. Cauliflower Rice: Light and fluffy, it’s great for soaking up extra sauce while keeping it low-carb.
3. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy, flavorful fries complement the savory Sloppy Joe mix beautifully.
4. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw brings freshness and balances the richness of the dish.
5. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet, charred corn adds texture and sweetness that pairs well with the savory bowls.
6. Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed quinoa salad provides a light yet filling side option that’s easy to whip up.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common errors can elevate your Sloppy Joe Bowls experience. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Overcooking the Sweet Potatoes: Cutting sweet potatoes too thinly or leaving them in the oven too long can lead to a mushy texture. Aim for 1/4 inch slices and check them around the 10-minute mark.
• Neglecting Seasoning: Not seasoning the meat properly can result in bland flavors. Make sure to add enough kosher salt and spices to enhance the dish.
• Using Low-Quality Ketchup: Some ketchups contain additives that can alter flavor. Choose a high-quality paleo ketchup for the best results.
• Skipping the Pickles: Pickles add a crunchy contrast that makes Sloppy Joe Bowls incredible. Don’t skip this garnish!
• Not Adjusting Sauce Consistency: If you prefer a saucier mix, don’t hesitate to add more ketchup or tomato paste. Tailor it to your taste!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Freezing Sloppy Joe Bowls

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Sloppy Joe Bowls

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F and reheat in a covered dish for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Sloppy Joe Bowls.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative that is leaner while still providing excellent flavor.

What if I don’t have ghee?

You can substitute ghee with olive oil or coconut oil, which will still work well in this recipe.

How do I make it spicier?

Add diced jalapeños or extra chili powder to increase the heat level in your Sloppy Joe Bowls.

Are there any vegetarian options?

Certainly! Swap out the ground beef for lentils or mushrooms as a plant-based alternative.

Final Thoughts

These Sloppy Joe Bowls are not only easy to make but also versatile, allowing you to customize with your favorite toppings like pickled onions or fresh herbs. The combination of roasted sweet potatoes and flavorful beef creates a satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy. Give this recipe a try and make it your own!