Name: Crock Pot Sloppy Joes Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 3 h
Total time: 3 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound Ground Beef; 2 Celery Stalks minced; 1/3 cup Yellow or White Onion minced; 1/3 cup Green Pepper minced; 1/4 cup Ketchup; 1/4 cup Barbecue Sauce; 1 8oz. can Tomato Sauce; 1 tablespoon Brown Sugar; 1 teaspoon Mustard Powder; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce; 1 tablespoon Apple Cider Vinegar; Sea Salt to taste; Black Pepper to taste; 8 Hamburger Buns (optional)

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If you’re looking for the ultimate family dinner that’s hearty, kid-approved, and packed with flavor, Crock Pot Sloppy Joes are the answer. This classic American favorite eases its way into weeknight routines with savory ground beef, sweet and tangy sauce, and fresh veggies all melded together slow and steady in your trusty crock pot. Each juicy bite is deliciously nostalgic, wonderfully messy, and so satisfying – perfect for piling high on warm hamburger buns or sneaking spoonfuls straight from the pot. Whether it’s for a laid-back cookout or a busy weeknight, Crock Pot Sloppy Joes deliver that saucy, comfort food magic every time.

Crock Pot Sloppy Joes Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The real beauty of Crock Pot Sloppy Joes is just how simple the ingredient list is, yet how each element works together to create a crave-worthy sandwich filling. From colorful veggies to zesty sauces, every addition brings something special to the table.

Ground Beef: The classic base for sloppy joes, giving the filling its satisfying, meaty texture.
Celery Stalks (minced): Adds a pop of freshness and subtle crunch that balances the richness.
Yellow or White Onion (minced): Sweetness and aromatic depth build great flavor from the start.
Green Pepper (minced): Brings color and a gentle, earthy zing that plays beautifully with the savory sauce.
Ketchup: Contributes that sweet, tangy backbone you expect in great Sloppy Joes.
Barbecue Sauce: Amp up the smoky, sultry notes and layer on even more depth of flavor.
Tomato Sauce (8oz can): Adds sauciness and a bright, rich tomato base to unify everything.
Brown Sugar: Just a touch of sweetness that helps the flavors pop without overwhelming.
Mustard Powder: Offers a gentle kick and an underlying tangy warmth.
Worcestershire Sauce: That wonderful umami magic that takes the savory profile to new heights.
Apple Cider Vinegar: Lifts all the flavors with a hint of acidity to cut through the richness.
Sea Salt: Season to taste for a well-rounded, craveable bite.
Black Pepper: Adds just the right note of heat and complexity.
Hamburger Buns (optional): Perfect for holding all that saucy goodness—pick your favorite soft or toasted buns.

How to Make Crock Pot Sloppy Joes

Step 1: Chop Your Veggies

Before you start cooking anything, grab your large knife and mince the celery, onion, and green bell pepper. The smaller the dice, the better these veggies will melt into the sauce, bringing sweet flavor and lovely texture to every bite without leaving big chunks. Taking a few extra minutes here really pays off in the final dish!

Step 2: Brown Beef and Veggies

Using a large skillet over medium-low heat, add the ground beef, celery, onion, and green pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the beef loses its pink color and the vegetables become soft and translucent. This not only builds deep flavor at the base of your Crock Pot Sloppy Joes but also ensures a perfect, cohesive texture throughout.

Step 3: Drain Excess Grease

If there’s extra grease in your skillet, carefully tilt the pan and use a paper towel to soak up the fat. This keeps your filling saucy but never greasy! Taking this step makes a huge difference in the finished dish, keeping every bite luscious but balanced.

Step 4: Mix in Sauces and Seasonings

Transfer the cooked beef and veggie mixture to your slow cooker. Add ketchup, barbecue sauce, tomato sauce, brown sugar, mustard powder, Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, sea salt, and black pepper. Stir well with a wooden spoon so every bite is full of flavor. Now comes the magic—letting the crock pot work its slow-cooked wonders.

Step 5: Let It Simmer

Cover and set your Crock Pot to low. Let everything simmer away for 2 to 3 hours, stirring occasionally if you’re nearby. The sauce will thicken, flavors will meld, and the delicious aroma will let you know something amazing is happening. Once piping hot and beautifully thick, your Crock Pot Sloppy Joes are ready to serve!

How to Serve Crock Pot Sloppy Joes

Garnishes

Go all out with toppings—think extra sliced pickles, shredded cheddar cheese, a sprinkle of chopped green onion, or even a tangy coleslaw. A little garnish doesn’t just look cute—it brings another layer of crunch, creaminess, or brightness that makes these sandwiches totally irresistible.

Side Dishes

Classic sides for Crock Pot Sloppy Joes include kettle chips, oven fries, or a crisp salad. For a cookout vibe, pair with potato salad, baked beans, or corn on the cob. All these options help round out the meal, making it feel like a well-thought-out feast even on busy nights.

Creative Ways to Present

Move beyond the bun! Try serving the saucy filling over baked potatoes, nestled into soft hoagie rolls, or even stuffed in warm pita pockets. If you’re feeling fun, offer it up as a Sloppy Joe slider bar for parties or family gatherings, letting everyone make their own perfect creation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Crock Pot Sloppy Joes are a weeknight lifesaver. Once cooled, scoop the filling into an airtight container and refrigerate. You’ll have delicious, ready-to-go sandwiches for up to four days – perfect for lunchbox upgrades or easy dinners the next day.

Freezing

This recipe freezes beautifully! After the filling cools completely, portion it into freezer bags or containers, label, and stash in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or quickly in the microwave when you need dinner in a pinch. It’s a huge win for meal prepping.

Reheating

To reheat Crock Pot Sloppy Joes, simply warm the mixture in a saucepan over medium-low, stirring occasionally until hot. Or pop it in the microwave in short bursts (stirring between each) until it’s nice and bubbly. Add a splash of tomato sauce or water if needed to loosen it back up.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! Lean ground turkey or chicken are fantastic substitutes and still deliver saucy, satisfying results. The flavor will be slightly lighter, so feel free to boost the seasonings if you want the same rich taste as classic Crock Pot Sloppy Joes.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

If you like a kick, try stirring in a diced jalapeño with the veggies or add a dash of hot sauce when you mix in the other condiments. A sprinkle of crushed red pepper will also bring some welcome heat without overpowering the saucy goodness.

What’s the best way to keep buns from getting soggy?

For the perfect Crock Pot Sloppy Joes experience, toast your buns lightly before piling on the filling. This creates a barrier that helps keep them sturdy—even after the saucy mixture is added. Brioche or potato buns also stand up especially well to the filling.

Can I double this recipe for a crowd?

Yes! This recipe scales up beautifully. As long as your slow cooker is large enough, you can easily double or even triple the ingredients. Just add a bit of extra cook time to ensure everything is heated through and flavors mingle perfectly.

Is it possible to cook this entirely on the stovetop?

Definitely. Once you sauté and drain your beef and veggies, add all the sauces and seasonings to the skillet and let it simmer on medium-low for about 15 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. It won’t have that extra-deep flavor from slow cooking, but it’s still wonderfully delicious in a fraction of the time.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so timeless and satisfying about Crock Pot Sloppy Joes—they’re easy, playful, and always hit the spot. Next time you crave a nostalgic dinner or need to feed a hungry crowd, let your slow cooker do the work and savor the saucy, joyful messiness that makes this dish such a legend. You’re just a slow-simmer away from happy smiles around your table—give them a try and enjoy every bite!