Homemade Manwich Sloppy Joe Recipe

A Family Favorite in Less Than 30-Minutes

A Manwich sandwich is all about the sauce—a tangy, slightly sweet, and savory blend that transforms ground beef into a comforting classic. Key ingredients like tomato sauce, ketchup, mustard, and a touch of chili powder create the iconic flavor profile.

The celery seed adds a subtle herbal note that enhances the overall depth, while the diced green pepper provides a fresh, earthy balance and a touch of crunch, making this version stand out from canned alternatives.

Watch how easy it is to prepare this Sloppy Joe recipe!

Ingredients and Supplies to Make Copycat Manwich Sloppy Joes

The key to a flavorful Manwich sandwich is pantry-friendly, simple ingredients that come together in no time.

 Ingredients

• Lean ground beef
• Tomato sauce
• Low-sugar ketchup
• Dried minced onion
• Green bell pepper
• Salt
• Minced garlic
• Celery seed
• Mustard
• Chili powder
• For serving: hamburger buns

Ingredient Variations and Additions

This recipe is versatile and allows for plenty of customization:

• Protein: Swap ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat for a different twist.
• Veggies: Add diced mushrooms, shredded carrots, or zucchini to boost the nutritional value.
• Spices: Add red pepper flakes for more heat or smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness.
• Sweetness: Substitute ketchup with BBQ sauce for a smokier, slightly sweeter flavor.

Supplies

• Large skillet
• Spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

How to Make Sloppy Joe Meat

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

Cook the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat on the stove until no longer pink. Drain the grease.

Step 2: Make the Sloppy Joe Sauce

Mix the remaining ingredients in a medium-sized bowl. Add the sauce to the ground beef. Allow the meat mixture to simmer in the skillet, stirring occasionally for about 10 minutes or until the sauce thickens.

Step 3: Serve with Toasted Buns

How to toast buns in the air fryer:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
2. Separate the buns and place them cut side up in the air fryer basket.
3. Toast for 2-3 minutes or until golden and crisp.
4. For extra flavor, brush the cut sides with butter or garlic butter before toasting.

What to Serve with Homemade Sloppy Joes

This family-friendly meal is quick and loved by everyone. Enjoy it with a side to make it a complete and nutritious meal!

• Coleslaw
• Potato salad
• Roasted vegetables
• Fries

Other Ways to Eat the Filling (Besides in a Sandwich)

Sloppy Joe filling isn’t just for sandwiches! You can enjoy this versatile sloppy joe filling in many creative ways:

• Stuffed Bell Peppers: Spoon the filling into hollowed-out bell peppers, top with cheese (if desired), and bake until tender.
• Over Baked Potatoes: Use the filling as a hearty topping for baked potatoes or sweet potatoes.
• Nachos: Spread tortilla chips on a baking sheet, layer with sloppy joe filling, shredded cheese, and your favorite toppings, then broil until melted.
• Quesadillas: Spread the filling between two tortillas with shredded cheese and cook in a skillet until crispy.
• Over Rice or Pasta: For a quick meal, serve the filling over white rice, brown rice, or cooked pasta.
• Low-Carb Options: Serve over cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles, or lettuce wraps for a lighter take.

Storing Leftovers

I love to double this recipe because it freezes so well!

Refrigeration:

• Store leftover sloppy joe filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing:

• Portion the filling into resealable freezer bags and label them with the date and reheating instructions.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight or heat directly from frozen in a skillet over medium heat.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months. For best results, store the filling in airtight bags or containers to maintain freshness and prevent freezer burn.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a Manwich and a Sloppy Joe?

A Manwich is a branded version of a sloppy joe featuring a canned sauce mix with a tangy, sweet flavor. Homemade sloppy joes allow you to customize the sauce and control the ingredients for a fresher, more personalized taste.

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute for ground beef. It’s leaner and lighter while still pairing well with the tangy sauce.

How can I make the sauce less sweet?

Reduce the amount of ketchup and use a sugar-free variety, or replace it with tomato paste for a less sweet, more savory flavor.

Final Thoughts

Sloppy joes are a timeless classic, and this homemade Manwich recipe takes them to the next level. It’s also great for meal prep, making busy weeknights a breeze with its quick and freezer-friendly approach. The tangy, savory sauce is quick to make and packed with flavor, proving that ditching the can is well worth it.

Whether you’re serving these sandwiches at a casual family dinner or freezing the filling for a busy weeknight, this recipe is as versatile as it is delicious. Don’t be afraid to customize it with your favorite add-ins or try it in one of the suggested creative ways. Enjoy every messy, satisfying bite!

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Air fryer tips and tricks

• Air Fryer 101
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• Watch Fabulessly Frugal YouTube Channel for Air Fryer Recipes

Homemade Manwich Sloppy Joe Recipe

This Manwich Sloppy Joe Recipe is tangy, flavorful, and ready in less than 30 minutes. Skip the can and make this easy family-friendly meal everyone will love!

4.49 / 5 ( 115 Reviews )

Print Pin Rate

Prep Time: 5 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes minutes

Serves: 6

Adjust Servings: 6

US CustomaryMetric

Ingredients

• 8 oz can tomato sauce
• 1 cup low sugar ketchup
• 1 tablespoon dried minced onion
• 1 tablespoon green pepper diced fine
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon dried minced garlic
• ¼ teaspoon celery seed
• 1 teaspoon prepared mustard
• ½ teaspoon chili powder
• 1 pound ground beef
• 6 hamburger buns

Instructions

• Combine all sauce ingredients in a medium bowl.
• Brown 1 pound ground beef, drain the fat. Add the sauce to the meat and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes. Serve with toasted hamburger buns.

Preparing For the Freezer:

• Store the sloppy joe filling in a gallon-size resealable freezer bag, or portion into smaller bags according to your needs. Label and date the bags, remove as much air as possible, and freeze flat. The buns may also be frozen.

Prepare after Freezing:

• Remove from freezer and thaw in the refrigerator overnight, or place frozen sloppy joe mixture directly into pan. Heat gradually in a saucepan or skillet until warmed through and serve.

Recipe Notes

Make this extra healthy by adding some cooked quinoa and skip the buns. Serve it over cooked carrots or squash instead!

Nutrition

Calories: 351kcal | Carbohydrates: 27g | Protein: 18g | Fat: 17g | Sodium: 1364mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 7g