Sloppy Joe Bowls

An easy and delicious dinner idea, Sloppy Joe Bowls are perfect for any occasion, from busy weeknights to casual gatherings. This recipe combines hearty ground beef with vibrant vegetables served over roasted sweet potatoes, offering a satisfying and nutritious meal. Enjoy the unique combination of flavors while keeping it paleo, Whole30, and gluten-free!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 25 minutes from prep to plate, this meal fits perfectly into a busy schedule.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with wholesome vegetables and lean protein, these bowls are both healthy and flavorful.
• Customizable: Adjust the toppings based on your preference—for example, add extra veggies or different sauces to suit your taste.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the fun presentation and tasty flavors of Sloppy Joe Bowls!
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a batch ahead of time for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin cooking, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Cast iron skillet
• Baking sheet
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Cast iron skillet: Perfect for even heat distribution when cooking ground beef and vegetables.
• Baking sheet: Ideal for roasting sweet potatoes to achieve that perfect tender texture.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures quick, clean cuts for all your ingredients.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe and stable surface for chopping ingredients.

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Ingredients

An easy, delicious dinner idea that is paleo, Whole30 and gluten-free! Made with simple, real ingredients!

For the Sweet Potatoes

• 1 large sweet potato, cut into 1/4 inch slices
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil (sub avocado oil)
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt

For the Sloppy Joe Mixture

• 2 tablespoons ghee or olive oil
• 1-2 tablespoons garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup yellow onion, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, diced
• 1/2 – 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 teaspoon dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
• 3 tablespoons paleo ketchup
• 2 tablespoons coconut aminos
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar

For Toppings

• Dijon mustard
• Sliced pickles (I like this brand)
• Pickled red onions

How to Make Sloppy Joe Bowls

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 415 degrees F. This temperature is perfect for roasting sweet potatoes until tender.

Step 2: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

1. Place your sweet potato slices on a baking sheet.
2. Drizzle with olive oil, massaging it into both sides.
3. Sprinkle with kosher salt.

Step 3: Roast the Sweet Potatoes

Place the baking sheet in the oven on the middle rack. Roast for 10-12 minutes until they are firm but tender.

Step 4: Cook the Vegetables

In a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat:
1. Add ghee or oil and swirl to coat.
2. Add minced garlic; cook until fragrant (about 10-20 seconds).
3. Add yellow onion, red onion, and diced bell pepper; sauté for about 2-3 minutes until softened.

Step 5: Brown the Beef

Add ground beef to the pan:
1. Cook until browned through (about 5-10 minutes).
2. Drain any excess grease.

Step 6: Mix in Sauces

Stir in:
– Dijon mustard,
– Yellow mustard,
– Paleo ketchup,
– Coconut aminos,
– Kosher salt,
– Ground black pepper,
– Tomato paste,
– Chili powder,
– Apple cider vinegar.

Step 7: Adjust Consistency

If you prefer a saucier mixture:
– Add additional ketchup and tomato paste as desired.

Step 8: Serve

To serve:
1. Place a few slices of roasted sweet potato in each bowl.
2. Top with sloppy joe mixture.
3. Finish with sliced pickles, pickled onions, and a drizzle of Dijon mustard.

Enjoy your flavorful Sloppy Joe Bowls!

How to Serve Sloppy Joe Bowls

Serving Sloppy Joe Bowls is a fun and interactive way to enjoy this delicious meal. You can customize each bowl to suit your taste, making it a crowd-pleaser for family dinners or casual gatherings.

Personalize Your Bowl

• Add Avocado: Creamy avocado slices bring richness and balance the flavors.
• Top with Fresh Herbs: Chopped cilantro or parsley adds a fresh touch and enhances the dish’s color.
• Include Hot Sauce: A few dashes of your favorite hot sauce can spice things up for those who like heat.

Create a Salad Base

• Mix Greens: Start with fresh spinach or arugula underneath your Sloppy Joe mixture for added crunch and nutrition.
• Add Cherry Tomatoes: Halved cherry tomatoes provide sweetness and acidity that complement the savory flavors.

Garnish Ideas

• Chopped Green Onions: A sprinkle of green onions adds a mild onion flavor and vibrant green color.
• Shredded Carrots: Crisp shredded carrots add texture and a hint of natural sweetness.

How to Perfect Sloppy Joe Bowls

Perfecting your Sloppy Joe Bowls involves attention to detail in both flavor and presentation. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always choose fresh vegetables and quality meats for the best flavor.
• Adjust the Seasoning: Taste as you cook; adjust salt, pepper, or spices to suit your preference.
• Experiment with Sauces: Feel free to mix different sauces like BBQ sauce for a unique twist on the classic recipe.
• Cook in Batches: If making for a larger group, consider cooking in batches to ensure even cooking.

Best Side Dishes for Sloppy Joe Bowls

Pairing side dishes with your Sloppy Joe Bowls can enhance the overall meal experience. Here are some great options.

1. Sweet Potato Fries: These crispy fries are a perfect complement, adding sweetness and crunch.
2. Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw made with cabbage and carrots provides a crunchy contrast.
3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts add depth and flavor to your meal.
4. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds brightness and pairs well with the savory sloppy joe mixture.
5. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli offers a healthy option that balances out the dish.
6. Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative that absorbs flavors while providing extra nutrients.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Sloppy Joe Bowls can be a delightful experience, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Bold ingredient measurement: Using incorrect measurements can lead to unbalanced flavors. Always measure your ingredients carefully and double-check before cooking.
• Bold neglecting the sweet potato: Overcooking or undercooking the sweet potatoes can ruin the texture. Make sure to roast them until they are firm but tender for the best results.
• Bold skipping the seasoning: Failing to season properly can make your dish bland. Adjust salt, pepper, and other spices according to your taste throughout the cooking process.
• Bold not draining excess grease: Leaving excess grease from the ground beef in your dish can make it greasy. Always drain it after cooking to keep your Sloppy Joe Bowls light and delicious.
• Bold omitting customization: Sticking rigidly to the recipe may limit creativity. Feel free to add extra toppings or adjust ingredients based on personal preferences.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Sloppy Joe Bowls

• Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.
• Divide into individual portions for easy reheating.

Reheating Sloppy Joe Bowls

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake covered for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Sloppy Joe Bowls.

What are Sloppy Joe Bowls?

Sloppy Joe Bowls are a deconstructed version of traditional Sloppy Joes served over roasted sweet potatoes instead of bread. They combine savory beef with flavorful toppings.

Can I use turkey instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey is a great alternative if you want a leaner option while still enjoying hearty flavors in your Sloppy Joe Bowls.

How can I customize my Sloppy Joe Bowls?

Feel free to add toppings like avocado, jalapeños, or different types of pickles. You can also experiment with different vegetables mixed into the beef mixture.

Are Sloppy Joe Bowls gluten-free?

Absolutely! This recipe is gluten-free, especially when using ingredients like paleo ketchup and coconut aminos.

Final Thoughts

These Sloppy Joe Bowls are not only easy to prepare but also offer a deliciously unique twist on a classic dish. With simple ingredients and room for customization, they’re perfect for any dinner table. Try adding your favorite toppings or adjusting the spices to suit your taste!