Beef & Bean Sloppy Joes Recipe

There’s something undeniably comforting about a Sloppy Joe. It’s a nostalgic dish, a taste of childhood, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. However, the classic version often leans heavily on processed ingredients and added sugars, leaving us feeling a bit sluggish afterward. That’s why I was thrilled to stumble upon this Beef & Bean Sloppy Joes recipe. It promised all the familiar flavors we crave, but with a healthy twist. And let me tell you, it delivered! My family devoured these sandwiches. Even my picky eaters, who usually balk at beans, didn’t suspect a thing – they just asked for seconds! The addition of black beans is genius; it not only boosts the fiber content significantly but also adds a wonderful depth of flavor and texture that you wouldn’t expect. The recipe masterfully cuts back on sugar and ketchup, resulting in a sauce that’s perfectly balanced – savory, slightly sweet, and with just the right amount of tang. If you’re looking for a quick, easy, and healthier way to enjoy this iconic comfort food, look no further. This Beef & Bean Sloppy Joes recipe is a definite winner, and it’s about to become a regular in our weeknight rotation.

Ingredients

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients to create a flavorful and satisfying meal. Let’s break down each component and understand why they are essential for making the best Beef & Bean Sloppy Joes:

• 1 tablespoon Extra-Virgin Olive Oil: Olive oil is the foundation of our recipe, providing a healthy fat source and a flavorful base for sautéing our aromatics and browning the beef. Extra-virgin olive oil is preferred for its superior flavor and higher antioxidant content compared to refined olive oils. You can also use other healthy oils like avocado oil or coconut oil if you prefer, but olive oil lends a classic Mediterranean touch that complements the savory flavors of the dish beautifully. Using oil is crucial for preventing the ingredients from sticking to the pan and for developing rich, layered flavors through gentle sautéing.
• 12 ounces 90%-Lean Ground Beef: Lean ground beef is the star protein of our Sloppy Joes, offering a hearty and satisfying base. Choosing 90%-lean ground beef is a smart choice for a healthier version, as it reduces the overall fat content without sacrificing flavor. The beef provides essential protein and iron, contributing to a balanced and filling meal. When browning the beef, ensure you break it up well to create smaller crumbles, which will integrate seamlessly into the sauce. For variations, you could also use ground turkey or chicken, though beef provides the most traditional Sloppy Joe flavor profile. If you are looking for a vegetarian option, consider using crumbled lentils or plant-based ground beef substitutes, but keep in mind that the flavor and texture will differ.
• 1 cup No-Salt-Added Black Beans, Rinsed: Black beans are the secret ingredient that elevates this Sloppy Joe recipe to a healthier and more flavorful level. Substituting some of the meat with beans not only significantly increases the fiber content (adding a whopping 7 grams per serving!) but also introduces a wonderful creamy texture and earthy flavor that complements the beef perfectly. Using no-salt-added black beans allows you to control the sodium content of the dish. Rinsing the beans thoroughly is essential to remove excess sodium and any starchy liquid, which can affect the sauce’s consistency. Black beans are also a fantastic source of plant-based protein, vitamins, and minerals, making this recipe even more nutritious. Don’t be tempted to skip the beans – they are a game-changer in this recipe!
• 1 cup Chopped Onion: Onion is an aromatic foundation for countless savory dishes, and Sloppy Joes are no exception. Chopped onion, when sautéed in olive oil, releases its sweet and pungent flavors, creating a flavorful base for the sauce. Yellow or white onions work best for this recipe, offering a balanced flavor that doesn’t overpower the other ingredients. Ensure the onion is finely chopped so it cooks evenly and softens nicely in the pan. Sautéing the onion until softened is crucial; this process mellows its sharpness and brings out its sweetness, contributing to a richer and more complex flavor profile in the final Sloppy Joe sauce.
• 2 teaspoons New Mexico Chile Powder: New Mexico chile powder is the key spice that provides warmth and depth of flavor to our Sloppy Joe sauce. It offers a slightly smoky and earthy flavor with a mild heat, distinct from regular chili powder blends, which can be more cumin-heavy. New Mexico chile powder is made from dried and ground New Mexico chiles, known for their unique flavor profile. If you can’t find New Mexico chile powder, you can substitute with a good quality chili powder blend, but be mindful of the heat level as some chili powders can be spicier. The chile powder adds a crucial layer of complexity to the sauce, moving beyond just sweetness and tang.
• ½ teaspoon Garlic Powder & ½ teaspoon Onion Powder: Garlic powder and onion powder are pantry staples that provide concentrated garlic and onion flavor, respectively. They enhance the aromatic base of the sauce and complement the fresh chopped onion already in the recipe. Using powdered forms ensures that the garlic and onion flavors are evenly distributed throughout the sauce. These powders are convenient and offer a consistent flavor profile, especially when you want to quickly build flavor without relying solely on fresh aromatics. They work synergistically with the fresh onion and other spices to create a well-rounded and savory Sloppy Joe sauce.
• Pinch of Cayenne Pepper: A pinch of cayenne pepper adds a subtle kick of heat to the Sloppy Joes, balancing the sweetness and savory notes. Cayenne pepper is a potent spice, so a pinch is all you need to add a pleasant warmth without making the dish overly spicy. If you are sensitive to heat, you can start with an even smaller pinch or omit it entirely, but the slight heat from the cayenne really enhances the overall flavor and prevents the sauce from being too one-dimensional. For those who enjoy more heat, you can increase the amount of cayenne or add a dash of hot sauce to the finished sauce.
• 1 cup No-Salt-Added Tomato Sauce: Tomato sauce is the liquid base of our Sloppy Joe sauce, providing a rich tomato flavor and helping to create the signature saucy consistency. Using no-salt-added tomato sauce allows for better control over the sodium content of the recipe. Tomato sauce provides a smooth, concentrated tomato flavor that is essential for a classic Sloppy Joe. It also thickens slightly as it cooks, contributing to the desired saucy texture. Ensure you use plain tomato sauce, not tomato puree or tomato paste, as those have different consistencies and flavor profiles.
• 3 tablespoons Ketchup: Ketchup adds sweetness, tanginess, and a classic Sloppy Joe flavor element. However, traditional Sloppy Joe recipes often use excessive amounts of ketchup, contributing to high sugar content. This recipe smartly reduces the ketchup to just 3 tablespoons, significantly cutting back on added sugar without sacrificing the essential ketchup flavor. Ketchup provides a balanced sweet and sour note, along with a slight umami depth. Choose a good quality ketchup for the best flavor. If you are very sensitive to sugar, you can look for reduced-sugar or no-sugar-added ketchup options, but keep in mind that the flavor may be slightly different.
• 1 tablespoon Reduced-Sodium Worcestershire Sauce: Worcestershire sauce is a secret weapon in many savory recipes, adding a complex umami depth and savory richness. Using reduced-sodium Worcestershire sauce helps to keep the sodium content in check while still delivering that essential flavor. Worcestershire sauce is fermented and contains a blend of ingredients like vinegar, molasses, tamarind, and spices, resulting in a unique and complex savory flavor. It enhances the meaty flavor of the beef and adds a layer of sophistication to the Sloppy Joe sauce. Don’t skip the Worcestershire sauce – it makes a noticeable difference in the final flavor profile.
• 2 teaspoons Spicy Brown Mustard: Spicy brown mustard adds a tangy kick and a touch of sharpness to the Sloppy Joe sauce, cutting through the sweetness and adding complexity. Spicy brown mustard has a coarser texture and a more pronounced mustard flavor compared to yellow mustard. Its spiciness is relatively mild and complements the other flavors in the sauce without being overpowering. Mustard also acts as an emulsifier, helping to bind the sauce together slightly. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can use Dijon mustard or yellow mustard, but spicy brown mustard adds a unique and delicious element to these Sloppy Joes.
• 1 teaspoon Light Brown Sugar: Light brown sugar adds a touch of sweetness to balance the savory and tangy flavors in the Sloppy Joe sauce. While this recipe significantly reduces the overall sugar content compared to traditional versions, a small amount of brown sugar is still used to create that classic Sloppy Joe sweetness. Light brown sugar also adds a hint of molasses flavor, which complements the other savory ingredients. You can adjust the amount of brown sugar to your preference, or use other sweeteners like maple syrup or honey in very small amounts, but brown sugar provides a classic and balanced sweetness in this recipe.
• 4 Whole-Wheat Hamburger Buns, Split and Toasted: Whole-wheat hamburger buns provide a sturdy and nutritious base for our Sloppy Joes. Choosing whole-wheat buns significantly increases the fiber content compared to white buns, adding to the overall health benefits of the meal. Toasting the buns is a crucial step; it prevents them from becoming soggy when loaded with the saucy Sloppy Joe filling and adds a pleasant textural contrast. Toasting also enhances the flavor of the buns. You can toast them in a toaster, under the broiler, or in a skillet with a little butter or oil for extra flavor. Look for whole-wheat buns that are soft and not too dense for the best eating experience. If you prefer, you can use other types of buns like brioche or potato buns, but whole-wheat buns are the healthiest and most recommended option for this recipe.

Instructions

Making these Beef & Bean Sloppy Joes is surprisingly simple and quick, perfect for a busy weeknight dinner. Follow these step-by-step instructions for delicious results:

1. Heat the Oil: Place a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Allow the skillet to heat up for a minute or two before adding 1 tablespoon of extra-virgin olive oil. Heating the skillet properly before adding the oil helps to prevent sticking. Once the oil is shimmering, it’s ready for the next step.
2. Brown the Beef: Add 12 ounces of 90%-lean ground beef to the hot skillet. Using a wooden spoon, immediately start breaking up the beef into smaller crumbles. Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the beef is lightly browned but not completely cooked through, about 3 to 4 minutes. Don’t overcook the beef at this stage, as it will continue to cook in the sauce later. Browning the beef adds depth of flavor to the dish through the Maillard reaction.
3. Remove Beef and Reserve Drippings: Using a slotted spoon, carefully transfer the lightly browned beef to a medium bowl. Leave any drippings and rendered fat in the pan. These drippings will contribute to the flavor of the vegetables we cook next. If there is an excessive amount of fat in the pan, you can carefully pour off a bit, leaving just enough to coat the bottom of the skillet.
4. Sauté Onions and Beans: Add 1 cup of chopped onion and 1 cup of rinsed no-salt-added black beans to the skillet with the reserved drippings. Cook, stirring often, until the onion is softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stirring frequently prevents the onions from burning and ensures even cooking. Sautéing the onions and beans together allows their flavors to meld and creates a flavorful base for the sauce. The beans will also warm up and soften slightly during this step.
5. Bloom the Spices: Add 2 teaspoons of New Mexico chile powder, ½ teaspoon of garlic powder, ½ teaspoon of onion powder, and a pinch of cayenne pepper to the skillet with the onions and beans. Cook, stirring constantly, until fragrant, about 30 seconds. This step is crucial for “blooming” the spices, which means heating them in oil to release their aromatic oils and enhance their flavor. Stir constantly to prevent the spices from burning, which can result in a bitter taste. You’ll notice a significant increase in aroma as the spices bloom.
6. Build the Sauce: Stir in 1 cup of no-salt-added tomato sauce, 3 tablespoons of ketchup, 1 tablespoon of reduced-sodium Worcestershire sauce, 2 teaspoons of spicy brown mustard, and 1 teaspoon of light brown sugar into the skillet. Stir well to combine all the ingredients and create a cohesive sauce. Ensure all the spices and seasonings are evenly distributed throughout the tomato sauce mixture.
7. Return Beef and Simmer: Return the partially cooked ground beef from the bowl back into the skillet with the sauce. Stir to combine the beef with the sauce, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low and cook, stirring often, until the beef is just cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly, about 5 minutes. Simmering allows the flavors to meld together and the sauce to reduce and thicken to the perfect Sloppy Joe consistency. Stirring prevents sticking and ensures even cooking.
8. Toast the Buns (Optional but Recommended): While the Sloppy Joe mixture is simmering, prepare the whole-wheat hamburger buns. Split the buns in half. You can toast them in a toaster, under the broiler for a minute or two, or in a dry skillet over medium heat until lightly golden brown. Toasting the buns adds a pleasant texture and prevents them from becoming soggy when you add the Sloppy Joe filling.
9. Serve: Once the Sloppy Joe mixture is ready and the buns are toasted (if desired), it’s time to assemble your sandwiches. Spoon a generous amount of the Beef & Bean Sloppy Joe mixture onto the bottom half of each toasted bun. Top with the other half of the bun and serve immediately. Enjoy your delicious and healthy homemade Sloppy Joes!

Nutrition Facts

This Beef & Bean Sloppy Joes recipe is not only delicious but also boasts an impressive nutrition profile. It’s designed to be a healthier take on the classic, focusing on reducing added sugars and increasing fiber.

• Servings: 4
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 350-400 calories (depending on bun size and toppings)

Key Nutritional Highlights per Serving (approximate):

• High Fiber: Each serving provides a significant 7 grams of fiber, thanks to the addition of black beans and whole-wheat buns. Fiber is crucial for digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar levels, and promotes satiety, keeping you feeling full and satisfied longer.
• Reduced Sugar: This recipe cuts back on added sugar by approximately 12 grams per serving compared to traditional Sloppy Joe recipes. This is achieved by reducing the amount of ketchup and using a minimal amount of brown sugar.
• Lean Protein: With 12 ounces of 90%-lean ground beef and the protein from black beans, each serving provides a good source of lean protein, essential for muscle building and repair, as well as overall satiety.
• Lower Sodium: By using no-salt-added tomato sauce and black beans, and reduced-sodium Worcestershire sauce, this recipe is lower in sodium than many commercially prepared Sloppy Joe sauces and traditional recipes. This is beneficial for heart health and blood pressure management.
• Diabetes-Friendly: The high fiber content and reduced sugar make this recipe a more diabetes-friendly option compared to classic Sloppy Joes. The fiber helps to slow down sugar absorption, and the lower sugar content helps to manage blood glucose levels.
• Heart-Healthy: The use of lean ground beef, olive oil, black beans, and whole-wheat buns, combined with reduced sodium and sugar, contributes to a heart-healthy meal. These ingredients support healthy cholesterol levels and blood pressure.

Detailed Nutrition Profile Considerations:

• Fats: The recipe uses a tablespoon of extra-virgin olive oil and lean ground beef, resulting in a moderate amount of healthy fats. Olive oil provides monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health.
• Carbohydrates: The carbohydrates primarily come from the whole-wheat buns, black beans, tomato sauce, and a small amount of brown sugar and ketchup. The whole-wheat buns and black beans contribute complex carbohydrates and fiber, while the added sugars are kept to a minimum.
• Vitamins and Minerals: Black beans are a good source of iron, folate, and potassium. Tomato sauce provides vitamin C and lycopene, an antioxidant. Lean beef is a source of iron, zinc, and B vitamins.

This nutrition profile makes Beef & Bean Sloppy Joes a much healthier and more balanced meal option compared to traditional versions, without sacrificing the comforting and delicious flavors you love.

Preparation Time

One of the best things about this Beef & Bean Sloppy Joes recipe is how quick and easy it is to prepare. Perfect for a weeknight meal when time is limited!

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • This includes the time it takes to chop the onion, rinse the black beans, measure out the spices and sauces, and get all your ingredients ready to go. Efficient chopping and organization can further reduce prep time.
• Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yes, you read that right! The total cooking time is also just 20 minutes. This is because the beef cooks quickly, the sauce simmers and thickens in a short amount of time, and the overall process is very streamlined.

Why is it so quick?

• Fast-Cooking Ground Beef: Ground beef cooks very quickly, especially when broken into small crumbles. Browning the beef takes just a few minutes.
• Quick-Sautéing Vegetables: Onions soften and become fragrant in just about 5 minutes of sautéing.
• Simmering Sauce: The sauce comes together quickly and thickens within 5-10 minutes of simmering.
• Minimal Steps: The recipe is straightforward with easy-to-follow steps, requiring minimal culinary skills.

Perfect for:

• Weeknight Dinners: When you need a delicious and satisfying meal on the table fast after a long day.
• Busy Families: Kids and adults alike will love Sloppy Joes, and the quick prep time is a lifesaver for busy parents.
• Last-Minute Meals: If you forgot to plan dinner, you likely already have most of these pantry staples on hand, making it a great last-minute option.

With only 20 minutes of total time from start to finish, you can enjoy a wholesome and flavorful meal that everyone will love. This recipe truly embodies the concept of quick and easy weeknight cooking!

How to Serve Beef & Bean Sloppy Joes

Beef & Bean Sloppy Joes are delicious on their own, but the right serving suggestions can elevate them to a complete and satisfying meal. Here are some ideas on how to serve them:

Classic Serving Style:

• On Toasted Whole-Wheat Buns: The recipe already includes this, and it’s the most traditional and satisfying way to enjoy Sloppy Joes. Make sure to toast the buns to prevent sogginess and add texture.
• With Classic Sides:
  • Potato Chips: A quintessential side for Sloppy Joes, offering a salty and crunchy contrast.
  • Pickles: Dill pickles or sweet pickles provide a tangy and refreshing counterpoint to the savory Sloppy Joes.
  • Coleslaw: Creamy or vinegar-based coleslaw adds coolness and crunch.
  • Macaroni Salad: Another classic picnic and barbecue side that pairs well with Sloppy Joes.

Healthier Side Options:

• Salads:
  • Green Salad with Vinaigrette: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing adds freshness and lightness.
  • Cucumber and Tomato Salad: A refreshing and hydrating salad that complements the richness of the Sloppy Joes.
  • Corn and Black Bean Salad: Enhance the bean theme with a corn and black bean salad, adding extra fiber and flavor.
• Vegetables:
  • Steamed or Roasted Broccoli: A healthy and nutritious side vegetable that pairs well with the savory flavors.
  • Carrot Sticks and Bell Pepper Strips: Crunchy raw vegetables with hummus or a light dip for a healthy and refreshing side.
  • Sweet Potato Fries or Wedges: A healthier alternative to regular fries, offering sweetness and added nutrients.
  • Grilled Corn on the Cob: Seasonal and delicious, grilled corn on the cob is a great summer side.

Creative Serving Ideas:

• Sloppy Joe Bowls: For a lower-carb option, serve the Sloppy Joe mixture over:
  • Cauliflower Rice: A grain-free and low-carb base.
  • Quinoa or Brown Rice: Whole grains for added fiber and nutrients.
  • Baked Potatoes or Sweet Potatoes: A hearty and filling option.
• Sloppy Joe Stuffed Peppers: Hollow out bell peppers, fill them with the Sloppy Joe mixture, and bake until the peppers are tender.
• Sloppy Joe Nachos: Spread tortilla chips on a baking sheet, top with Sloppy Joe mixture, cheese, and your favorite nacho toppings, then bake until cheese is melted and bubbly.
• Open-Faced Sloppy Joes: Serve on toasted bread slices or English muffins for a slightly different presentation.

Toppings to Enhance Your Sloppy Joes:

• Shredded Cheese: Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Pepper Jack for added flavor and creaminess.
• Pickled Jalapeños: For extra heat and tang.
• Diced Red Onion: Adds a sharp and crunchy element.
• Avocado or Guacamole: For creaminess and healthy fats.
• Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: For coolness and tanginess.
• Chopped Cilantro or Parsley: For freshness and visual appeal.

No matter how you choose to serve them, these Beef & Bean Sloppy Joes are sure to be a hit. Get creative and tailor your sides and toppings to your family’s preferences and enjoy!

Additional Tips for Perfect Beef & Bean Sloppy Joes

To ensure your Beef & Bean Sloppy Joes are absolutely perfect every time, here are five helpful tips to keep in mind:

1. Don’t Overcook the Beef: When browning the ground beef in the first step, aim for lightly browned but not fully cooked through. Overcooked beef can become dry and tough. Remember, it will continue to cook in the sauce, so it’s better to undercook it slightly at the beginning. This will ensure tender and juicy Sloppy Joes.
2. Bloom the Spices Properly: Don’t rush the step of blooming the spices in the skillet with the onions and beans. Cooking the chile powder, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper for about 30 seconds until fragrant is crucial for unlocking their full flavor potential. This step intensifies the aroma and taste of the spices, contributing significantly to the depth of flavor in the sauce. Stir constantly to prevent burning, which can make the spices taste bitter.
3. Simmer for Flavor Development: Allow the Sloppy Joe mixture to simmer for at least 5 minutes after returning the beef to the sauce. Simmering allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully and the sauce to thicken slightly. The longer it simmers (within reason – don’t let it dry out!), the richer and more flavorful the sauce will become. Stir occasionally during simmering to prevent sticking and ensure even heating.
4. Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Before serving, always taste the Sloppy Joe sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want to add a pinch more salt, a dash more Worcestershire sauce for extra umami, or a touch more brown sugar for sweetness, depending on your preference. Taste is subjective, so adjusting the seasoning to your liking is key to making the perfect Sloppy Joes for you and your family. Start with small adjustments and taste again until you reach the desired flavor balance.
5. Toast the Buns for Texture: While toasting the buns is optional, it’s highly recommended for enhancing the overall texture of your Sloppy Joes. Toasting prevents the buns from becoming soggy when loaded with the saucy filling and adds a pleasant crispy texture. You can toast them lightly for a subtle crunch or more thoroughly for a more pronounced toastiness. Experiment with different levels of toasting to find your preference. Toasted buns also hold up better to the saucy filling, making for a less messy eating experience.

By following these simple tips, you can elevate your Beef & Bean Sloppy Joes from good to absolutely amazing! These small details make a big difference in the final flavor and texture of this classic comfort food.

FAQ About Beef & Bean Sloppy Joes Ingredients

Here are some frequently asked questions about the ingredients used in this healthy Beef & Bean Sloppy Joes recipe:

Q1: Can I use a different type of ground meat instead of beef?

A: Yes, absolutely! While 90%-lean ground beef is recommended for its flavor and leanness, you can definitely substitute with other ground meats. Ground turkey or ground chicken are excellent leaner alternatives that will still work well. Just be aware that ground turkey and chicken tend to be drier than beef, so you might want to ensure you don’t overcook them during the browning stage and keep an eye on the sauce consistency while simmering. For a richer flavor similar to beef, you could also use ground bison or venison. For a vegetarian or vegan option, consider using crumbled lentils or a plant-based ground beef substitute. Keep in mind that the flavor profile will change slightly with different meat substitutions, but the recipe is versatile and adaptable.

Q2: Can I use different types of beans instead of black beans?

A: Yes, you can experiment with other types of beans if you don’t have black beans on hand or prefer a different flavor. Pinto beans, kidney beans, or even cannellini beans would work as substitutes. Pinto beans will offer a similar creamy texture and earthy flavor to black beans. Kidney beans will add a slightly firmer texture and a more pronounced bean flavor. Cannellini beans, also known as white kidney beans, will provide a milder flavor and a creamy texture. Make sure to use no-salt-added canned beans and rinse them thoroughly before adding them to the recipe, regardless of the type of bean you choose. The key benefit of beans is the added fiber and plant-based protein, so any bean substitution will still contribute to the healthier profile of the recipe.

Q3: Can I use fresh chiles instead of New Mexico chile powder?

A: While the recipe calls for New Mexico chile powder for its specific flavor profile and convenience, you can certainly use fresh chiles if you prefer. New Mexico chiles can be difficult to find fresh outside of certain regions, but if you have access to them, you can roast them, peel them, and then chop them finely to add to the recipe. For a similar flavor profile, you could also use dried New Mexico chiles that have been rehydrated and pureed. If you can’t find New Mexico chiles, you can use other mild to medium heat chiles like Anaheim chiles or poblano peppers. Keep in mind that using fresh chiles will add moisture to the dish, so you might need to simmer the sauce for a bit longer to achieve the desired consistency. Also, be mindful of the heat level of fresh chiles and adjust the amount accordingly to your preference.

Q4: Can I reduce or omit the brown sugar in the recipe?

A: Yes, you can definitely reduce or even omit the brown sugar if you are trying to minimize added sugars further. The recipe already significantly reduces the sugar compared to traditional Sloppy Joes, using only 1 teaspoon of brown sugar. If you omit it entirely, the Sloppy Joes will be less sweet and more savory. You can also try using sugar substitutes like maple syrup, honey, or stevia in very small amounts to add a touch of sweetness without using refined sugar. However, keep in mind that even a small amount of sweetness helps to balance the savory and tangy flavors in the Sloppy Joe sauce. Experiment and adjust to your taste preferences.

Q5: Can I use regular ketchup instead of reduced-sugar ketchup?

A: While the recipe recommends using regular ketchup for that classic Sloppy Joe flavor, you can certainly use reduced-sugar or no-sugar-added ketchup options if you are trying to further reduce sugar intake. Reduced-sugar ketchups are readily available in most supermarkets and can significantly cut down on added sugars without drastically altering the flavor. No-sugar-added ketchups are also an option, but the flavor profile might be slightly different, and they may rely more on artificial sweeteners or sugar alcohols. Read the ingredient labels carefully and choose a ketchup that aligns with your dietary preferences and health goals. Using reduced-sugar or no-sugar-added ketchup is another easy way to make this Sloppy Joe recipe even healthier.

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