The Best Homemade Sloppy Joes with Heinz Chili Sauce

The Best Homemade Sloppy Joes with Heinz Chili Sauce are rich, saucy, and packed with classic comfort-food flavor. Made from scratch with simple ingredients, they beat anything from a can every single time.

If you grew up on classic sloppy joes, this homemade version with Heinz Chili Sauce is about to ruin the canned stuff forever.

Rich, tangy, perfectly saucy, and loaded with real flavor, no mystery ingredients, no bland bites.

This is old-school comfort food done right, perfect for weeknight dinners, backyard gatherings, or anytime you want a messy sandwich that actually delivers.

Why You Will Love This Recipe!

• Way better than canned: Real ingredients, real flavor, no weird aftertaste.
• Perfectly saucy: Not dry, not soupy—just messy enough to be worth it.
• Family favorite: Kids love it, adults don’t feel bored eating it.
• Fast weeknight dinner: On the table in about 30 minutes.
• Great for leftovers: Tastes even better the next day on a toasted bun.

Ingredients Needed

• Ground beef: Hearty base that makes sloppy joes filling
• Onion: Adds savory flavor and classic homemade taste
• Green bell pepper: Brings mild sweetness and texture
• Garlic: Boosts flavor with bold, aromatic depth
• Heinz chili sauce: Signature tangy sauce that defines the recipe
• Ketchup: Adds sweetness and balances the chili sauce
• Worcestershire sauce: Deepens flavor with rich umami notes
• Brown sugar: Balances acidity with subtle sweetness
• Yellow mustard: Adds slight tang for classic sloppy joe flavor
• Hamburger buns: Soft buns perfect for soaking up sauce

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Sloppy Joes: Add diced jalapeños, hot sauce, or cayenne pepper to the beef mixture for a little heat.
• Cheesy Sloppy Joes: Stir in shredded cheddar, pepper jack, or mozzarella cheese into the filling before serving.
• Vegetarian Sloppy Joes: Swap ground beef for lentils, black beans, or a plant-based meat alternative.
• Sweet & Tangy: Add a splash of apple cider vinegar or extra brown sugar for a tangy-sweet twist.
• Sloppy Joe Sliders: Use smaller buns or dinner rolls for mini sandwiches perfect for parties or game days.
• Taco-Style Sloppy Joes: Sprinkle in taco seasoning and serve on buns with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and taco toppings.

How To Make Sloppy Joes with Heinz Chili Sauce

Step 1: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned. Break it up as it cooks, then drain excess grease if needed.

Step 2: Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring often, until softened and fragrant.

Step 3: Pour in the Heinz chili sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, and brown sugar. Stir well until everything is evenly combined.

Step 4: Reduce heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thick and saucy.

Step 5: Spoon the sloppy joe mixture onto toasted hamburger buns and serve warm.

The Best Homemade Sloppy Joes with Heinz Chili Sauce Recipe Tips

• Use lean ground beef: Reduces grease and keeps the filling from being too watery.
• Simmer for flavor: Let the sauce simmer to thicken and deepen the flavors.
• Toast the buns: Lightly toasting your buns prevents them from getting soggy.
• Adjust sweetness or tang: Add extra brown sugar or a splash of vinegar to taste.
• Add mix-ins: Try diced onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra texture.

Storing Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store cooled sloppy joe mixture in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze cooked sloppy joe filling in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Serve on fresh or toasted buns.

Homemade Sloppy Joes with Heinz Chili Sauce Recipe Faqs

Can I make these ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the filling a day ahead and refrigerate until ready to reheat and serve.

Can I use a different type of meat? Absolutely—ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based meat substitute all work well.

How do I prevent the buns from getting soggy? Lightly toast the buns before adding the sloppy joe mixture or serve open-faced.

Can I make them spicier? Yes, add jalapeños, hot sauce, or cayenne pepper to taste.

Can I freeze sloppy joe filling? Yes, freeze cooled filling in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months.

How do I reheat leftovers? Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through.

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