By Sarah Lohm, nutrition intern
There’s something about Sloppy Joe’s that just hits the spot! It’s packed with flavor and nostalgia, making it one of my favorite comfort meals. With most of the ingredients being pantry staples and easily customizable, this recipe is a weekly go-to!
Here’s my favorite way to prepare it!
The Ultimate One-Pan Sloppy Joe
Quick, easy, and packed with wholesome ingredients, this one-pan sloppy joe recipe puts a healthier twist on a comfort food your whole family will crave!
Carbohydrates 11g
Protein 19g
Fat 7g
Saturated Fat 1g
Sodium 590mg
Fiber 2g
Sugar 7g
Ingredients
Meat Mixture
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb ground turkey (I used 97/3)
- 1 medium green bell pepper (approximately 1 cup)
- 1 medium onion (approximately 1 cup)
- 1 handful spinach (approximately 1 cup), chopped
- 2 tsp garlic, minced
- For Serving: whole grain hamburger buns, baked sweet potato, bed of lettuce, bowl quinoa or rice
Sauce
- 8 oz tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup ketchup (I used Heinz "Simply"!)
- 1 1/2 tbsp yellow mustard
- 1 tbsp barbecue sauce of your choice (I used Primal Kitchen's unsweetened classic barbecue!)
- 1 tbsp worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp ground black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 3-4 shakes hot sauce (optional)
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil, minced garlic, and ground turkey to the pan. Cook for 6-8 minutes or until browned.
- Add onion, green bell pepper, and spinach. Cook until soft, about 4-5 minutes.
- Add sauce ingredients and simmer uncovered for 6-8 minutes, or until the sauce thickens.
- Serve as desired and enjoy!
Notes
*The nutrition figures are based on one serving (total of 6 servings) and should be considered estimates. Varying factors such as product types or brands purchased, natural fluctuations in foods, and the way ingredients are processed change the effective nutritional information in any given recipe. Figures do not account for serving method (bun, greens, etc.)
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS RECIPE!
This twist on a classic delivers not only on flavor, but provides so much opportunity for customization! There are SO many moments to swap out listed ingredients for what you have on hand or prefer, making it the perfect addition to your menu rotation.
LEARN HOW YOU CAN CLAIM THIS MEAL AS YOUR OWN!
PROTEIN:
- Swap ground turkey for ground chicken, beef, or plant-based crumbles.
- Try lentils or finely chopped mushrooms for a vegetarian option.
VEGGIES:
- If you’re looking to add a little more color, add shredded carrots! This will provide a little extra natural sweetener, color, and crunch!
- If you don’t have bell pepper on hand, try swapping for zucchini or even cauliflower!
- Not a fan of spinach? Try adding kale, arugula, or your favorite green instead.
SAUCE:
- Replace ketchup with tomato paste + a little honey or maple syrup for a less processed option. Or, adding shredded carrots will provide you that “sweet” flavor, with no added sugar!
- Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of Worcestershire sauce for a soy-free alternative.
- As I stated, I used Heinz’s Simply Ketchup, which is a great “middle-ground”, balanced ketchup. If you’re looking for an even lower-sugar choice, Primal Kitchen has an unsweetened option you could opt for. If you like a traditional sauce, feel free to use whatever ketchup you prefer to make this recipe one you’ll love!
MEAL PREP TIPS:
- Batch Cooking! Try preping this recipe early in the week and store in airtight containers for easy grab-and-go meals throughout the week!
- As the week goes on, serving on sweet potatoes, greens, or even turning into a wrap is a great way to keep things interesting! One of my favorite ways to repurpose is pairing with crackers and veggies – satisfying my “snacky” cravings, and adding a protein boost to my day!
- Looking for more meal prep tips and ways to use leftovers? Check out my top tips to maximize any leftovers!
STORAGE:
- Fridge: Store leftovers in a sealed container for up to 4-5 days.
- Freezer: Freeze portions in individual containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
LET’S COOK!
STEP ONE: Brown olive oil, garlic, and ground turkey in a skillet.
STEP TWO: Add sauce ingredients and simmer uncovered, about 6-8 minutes.
STEP THREE: Serve traditionally with a whole-grain bun, or try atop sweet potatoes, greens, or rice!
Love this recipe but want to individualize it to your unique body and nutritional needs?
Let’s connect and personalize it together! Get started HERE.
I CAN’T WAIT TO SEE YOU TRY IT!
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