Name: Steakhouse Burger Sloppy Joes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef (preferably 80/20 for juicy texture); 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 1/2 cup ketchup; 2 tbsp tomato paste; 1 tbsp yellow mustard; 1 tbsp brown sugar; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1 tsp chili powder; Salt and pepper, to taste; 4 hamburger buns; Optional toppings: cheddar cheese, pickles, lettuce, tomato

These Steakhouse Burger Sloppy Joes are a delicious twist on a classic comfort food favorite. Packed with juicy ground beef, rich seasonings, and a savory sauce, they deliver the satisfying flavors of a steakhouse burger in a messy, handheld sandwich. Perfect for casual dinners or weekend cookouts, they’re easy to make and full of bold, hearty taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it combines the juicy, meaty goodness of a steakhouse burger with the nostalgic, saucy appeal of sloppy joes. It’s a crowd-pleaser that feels indulgent without being complicated to prepare. The mix of Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, and spices creates a perfect balance of tangy and savory flavors. Plus, it’s a flexible recipe that I can easily adjust to suit different tastes or ingredient availability.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Ground beef (preferably 80/20 for juicy texture)
Onion, finely chopped
Garlic, minced
Worcestershire sauce
Ketchup
Tomato paste
Yellow mustard
Brown sugar
Smoked paprika
Chili powder
Salt and pepper
Hamburger buns
Optional toppings: cheddar cheese, pickles, lettuce, tomato

directions

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain any excess fat.
Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Stir in Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, tomato paste, yellow mustard, brown sugar, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the mixture simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened and flavorful.
Toast the hamburger buns lightly, if desired.
Spoon the sloppy joe mixture generously onto the buns. Add optional toppings like cheddar cheese, pickles, lettuce, or tomato if preferred.
Serve immediately and enjoy the messy, meaty goodness.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves about 4 people. Preparation takes approximately 10 minutes, and cooking time is around 20 minutes, so it’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a casual weekend lunch.

Variations

I like to switch things up by adding some diced bell peppers or jalapeños for extra flavor and heat. For a smoky twist, smoked gouda or pepper jack cheese works great as a topping. If I want a lighter option, I sometimes use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. For a vegetarian take, lentils or textured vegetable protein can replace the meat with a similar texture and flavor.

storage/reheating

I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm the sloppy joe mixture gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. It also reheats well in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes, depending on the portion size. Keep the buns separate to avoid sogginess.

FAQs

What cut of ground beef is best for this recipe?

I prefer ground beef that’s 80% lean and 20% fat because it stays juicy and flavorful without being too greasy.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely. The sloppy joe mixture can be made a day in advance and refrigerated. Just reheat before serving and toast the buns fresh.

Is this recipe spicy?

It’s mildly spiced from the chili powder and smoked paprika, but it’s not overly hot. I adjust the heat level depending on my mood by adding more or less chili powder or including jalapeños.

Can I freeze the leftover sloppy joe mixture?

Yes, I freeze leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

What are some good side dishes to serve with these sloppy joes?

I like to serve them with classic sides like coleslaw, potato chips, or baked beans for a complete, satisfying meal.

Conclusion

Steakhouse Burger Sloppy Joes bring together the best of both worlds: the hearty, juicy flavor of a steakhouse burger and the classic, comforting sauciness of sloppy joes. I find them easy to prepare, versatile, and always a hit with family and friends. Whether I’m feeding a crowd or making a quick meal, this recipe is one I return to again and again.

Steakhouse Burger Sloppy Joes