Sloppy Joes Upgraded
Same sloppy joe vibes- just elevated.
This is your classic sloppy joe—just better.
✅ Real ingredients
✅ Extra veggies
✅ Still fast and family-friendly
I call it Sloppy Joes Upgraded because it keeps everything we loved about the original, but feels a whole lot better to serve. One pan, a handful of pantry staples, and some finely chopped veggies that cook down right into the mix. No one will know, but you'll know. 😉
Why I Love This Recipe
First of all, it's easy. Second, it’s a dinner my kids will all eat. And third, I feel good knowing they’re getting a little extra goodness from the veggies without it being a big deal.
This is one of those meals where you don't need a ton of fancy ingredients, and you can tweak it based on what you’ve got on hand. Ground turkey works. Carrots instead of sweet potatoes? Totally fine. Skip the bun and serve it over a baked potato or rice? Also yes.
Here’s What You’ll Need:
1 lb ground beef
2/3 cup ketchup
2 tbsp mustard
1 cup diced zucchini
2/3 cup diced sweet potatoes or carrots
1/4 cup diced onion
Salt + pepper to taste
Optional: splash of apple cider vinegar or Worcestershire for extra flavor
How It Comes Together:
Brown the beef in a big skillet. Drain off the extra fat if needed.
Add the veggies. Toss in your zucchini, sweet potato (or carrot), and onion. Let them cook down for about 6–8 minutes until they start to soften.
Stir in the ketchup and mustard. Mix it all up until the sauce coats everything and it’s nice and thick. Let it simmer for a few more minutes so the flavors come together.
Scoop and serve! Pile it onto buns, sweet potatoes, or even over rice. Whatever works.
Real-Life Tips:
I’ve served this on hamburger buns, slider buns, baked potatoes, or bowl style with greens and avocado.
Leftovers heat up great for lunch the next day—just reheat and go.
Want to make it ahead? Double the recipe and freeze half. Your future self will thank you.
This One’s a Keeper
Honestly, this is just one of those meals that works. It’s not fancy. It’s not complicated. But it’s real food that feeds your people and makes you feel like you’re winning dinner. Try it out, and if you do, tag me on Instagram @boldandbrighthealth. I’d love to see your version!
