Easy Homemade Sloppy Joe Recipe (The Only Sloppy Joes I Like!)

Let me just start by saying I’m actually not a fan of sloppy joes…unless my Mom makes them and then I just can’t get enough. I don’t know what it is about her recipe but almost everyone always says the same thing: the only sloppy joes they like are Martha’s Famous Sloppy Joes.

This easy homemade sloppy joe recipe is one of those nostalgic comfort meals that tastes way better than any sloppy joe should. It’s simple, flavorful, slightly sweet, and perfect for feeding both your family or a crowd.

She originally only had the version that feeds 60 but I divided it out for a smaller serving size of 4-6 if you’re just feeding your family instead of a large crowd. The directions stay the same no matter which serving size you’re making.

FOR 4-6 SERVINGS:

Ingredients:

1 lb ground beef
½ tsp lime juice
2 tbsp water
¼ c celery
½ c onion
1 c ketchup
1 tbsp brown sugar
¾ tsp dry mustard
¼ c green pepper
1 tbsp vinegar
Hamburger Buns

Directions:

Saute onions, green peppers, and celery. Add meat and brown. Add remaining ingredients, salt and pepper and Worcestershire sauce to taste. Heat thoroughly and serve on hamburger style buns.

FOR 60 SERVINGS:

Ingredients:

8 lbs ground beef
¼ c lemon juice
1 cup water
2 cups chopped celery
1 lb chopped onion
2 qts. Ketchup
4 oz brown sugar
2 tbsp dry mustard
1 cup chopped green pepper
½ cup vinegar
Hamburger Buns

Directions:

Saute onions, green peppers, and celery. Add meat and brown. Add remaining ingredients, salt and pepper and Worcestershire sauce to taste. Heat thoroughly.

Enjoy! Here are links to a few of our other favorite recipes our Mom made for us. Her Famous Chocolate Chip Cookies, or her famous lemon salad dressing.

x.o. Emma