Ground Turkey Sloppy Joes Recipe
This Ground Turkey Sloppy Joes recipe offers a healthier twist on a classic comfort food by using lean ground turkey and a flavorful tomato-based sauce. Ready in 30 minutes, it’s a perfect weeknight meal packed with savory spices and a tangy kick from apple cider vinegar and Worcestershire sauce. Serve it warm on toasted buns for a satisfying and delicious sandwich.
- Author: Cara
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon Olive Oil
- 1/2 large Onion, diced
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 pound 93% Lean Ground Turkey
- ¼ cup Water (or more as needed)
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can Crushed Tomatoes
- 1/3 cup Tomato Paste (about half of a 6-ounce can)
- 1 tablespoon Apple Cider Vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire Sauce
- 1 teaspoon Dijon Mustard
- 1 teaspoon Chili Powder
- Salt and Black Pepper, to taste
- Heat Olive Oil: Place a saucepan over medium heat and add the olive oil. Heat until shimmering, preparing the pan for sautéing the aromatics.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pan. Stir frequently and cook until tender and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Cook Ground Turkey: Add the ground turkey to the pan with the onions and garlic. Break it up with a spoon and cook until fully browned and no pink remains.
- Drain Excess Grease: If there is any excess grease rendered from the turkey, carefully drain it off to reduce fat content.
- Deglaze the Pan: Pour in a splash of water and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. These bits add rich flavor to the sauce.
- Add Tomatoes and Seasonings: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, and chili powder. Mix well to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Simmer the Sauce: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 10-15 minutes. Stir occasionally until the sauce thickens to your preferred consistency.
- Season to Taste: Add salt and black pepper according to your taste preferences and stir to incorporate.
- Serve: Spoon the sloppy joe mixture onto toasted buns. Add your favorite toppings such as cheese, pickles, or coleslaw for extra flavor and texture.
- Store: Allow leftovers to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 90 days.
- Reheat: When ready to eat, reheat the sloppy joe mixture on the stovetop or microwave. Add a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much to restore moisture.
Notes
- Use lean ground turkey, preferably 93% lean, to keep this dish lower in fat but still juicy.
- Adjust the chili powder to your heat preference; add more for a spicier sloppy joe.
- For a gluten-free option, ensure the Worcestershire sauce and buns are gluten-free.
- To add extra veggies, consider adding finely diced bell peppers or carrots with the onions.
- This recipe can be doubled easily for meal prep or larger gatherings.
Keywords: ground turkey sloppy joes, healthy sloppy joes, turkey sandwich recipe, easy weeknight dinner, ground turkey recipes