Sloppy Joe

After work and a trip to the gym, it may be 8:00 by the time I get home.  And despite a liberal, daytime-snacking policy, I’m hungry for dinner by that time.

Even though I enjoy cooking, a Wednesday evening — with only a few hours left before bedtime beckons — is not the best time to launch into an hour-long culinary experience.  Quick, easy, and delicious are the weekday watchwords.

Sloppy Joe fits the bill.  This meal comes together in a matter of minutes and is absolutely delicious.  Warm and hearty, it’s befitting of the term “comfort food,” but without being overly heavy or unhealthy.

sloppy joe

PREP TIME: 10 minutes
COOK TIME: 15 minutes
YIELD: 4 Servings

WHAT TO GRAB:
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 small onion, diced
1 jalapeño pepper, diced (optional)
1 pound lean ground beef or ground turkey
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 6-ounce can tomato sauce
1 teaspoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
1/4 cup BBQ Sauce (I used Corky’s Sauce: Thanks Caitlin!)
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon ground chipotle chili
Kosher salt and pepper to taste
4 Whole-wheat hamburger buns, toasted, rubbed with garlic

HOW YOU DO IT:

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add in onions, and cook until almost tender.  Add the jalapeno pepper, and cook for 2 to 3 minutes more. Add in the beef, and cook until browned all over.

2. Stir in tomato paste, tomato sauce, brown sugar, vinegar, BBQ sauce, and spices.  Let simmer for 3 to 4, and then season with salt and pepper. Serve warm, on whole wheat hamburger rolls that have been toasted and rubbed with garlic! Add a side of sweet potato chips.