Description
These healthy Sloppy Joes offer a flavorful twist on a classic dish, featuring lean ground turkey or chicken. Quick and easy to prepare, they can be customized with your favorite toppings, making them perfect for a weeknight dinner. Enjoy them on whole grain buns for a nutritious meal!
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 crushed tomatoes
- 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 whole wheat hamburger buns
- Optional toppings: sliced pickles, shredded lettuce, or sliced avocado
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and bell pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Add the ground turkey or chicken to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon to break it up into smaller pieces. Cook until the meat is browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Once the meat is cooked, add the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste. Stir well to combine.
- Add the Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar (or honey). Stir to combine.
- Sprinkle in the chili powder and smoked paprika. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together until well combined.
- Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- While the filling is simmering, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) if you prefer toasted buns.
- Slice the whole grain or whole wheat hamburger buns in half. Place them on a baking sheet, cut side up, and toast them 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 your favorite toppings, such as sliced pickles, shredded lettuce, or sliced avocado.
- Top with the other half of the bun and press down gently to hold everything together.
- Serve immediately while warm, paired with sweet potato fries or a fresh green salad.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Notes
- For added nutrition, consider mixing in finely chopped carrots or zucchini when sautéing the onions and peppers.
- For a spicier kick, add a dash of hot sauce or diced jalapeños to the filling.
- For a vegetarian option, substitute the ground meat with lentils or a plant-based meat alternative.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes