Description
These healthy Sloppy Joes feature lean ground turkey or chicken and a flavorful homemade sauce, making them a nutritious twist on a classic dish. Quick and easy to prepare, they can be customized with your favorite toppings for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound lean ground turkey or chicken
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 bell pepper (red or green), finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup canned tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar or honey
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Whole grain or gluten-free hamburger buns
- Optional toppings: sliced pickles, shredded lettuce, or sliced tomatoes
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and bell pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until softened and the onion is translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Add the ground turkey or chicken, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Once the meat is cooked, pour in the canned tomato sauce and add the tomato paste. Stir well to combine.
- Add the Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar (or honey). Stir to incorporate.
- Sprinkle in the chili powder and smoked paprika, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat to low and let it cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- If desired, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) for toasted buns.
- Slice the hamburger buns in half and place them cut side up on a baking sheet. Toast in the oven for about 5-7 minutes, or until lightly golden and crispy.
- Once the filling has thickened, scoop a generous amount onto the bottom half of each toasted bun.
- Add optional toppings like sliced pickles, shredded lettuce, or sliced tomatoes if desired.
- Place the top half of the bun on each Sloppy Joe and press down gently.
- Serve immediately while warm, paired with sweet potato fries, a fresh salad, or steamed veggies.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
Notes
- For added nutrition, mix in finely chopped carrots, zucchini, or mushrooms when sautéing the onions and peppers.
- For a spicier kick, add hot sauce or diced jalapeños to the filling.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes