An easy-to-make dish, Sloppy Joe Bowls are perfect for weeknight dinners, gatherings, or meal prep. This delightful recipe combines the comforting flavors of traditional sloppy joes with nutritious roasted sweet potatoes. Not only is it gluten-free and paleo-friendly, but it’s also versatile enough to suit any occasion, from casual family meals to hosting friends.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With a total time of just 25 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy nights.
- Flavorful and Satisfying: The combination of ground beef and special sauces creates a rich flavor profile that everyone will love.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vitamins from sweet potatoes and fresh veggies, this dish is both healthy and delicious.
- Customizable Toppings: Add your favorite toppings such as pickles or onions for extra crunch and flavor.
- Great for Meal Prep: Prepare a larger batch to enjoy throughout the week—simply reheat and serve!
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Having the right equipment on hand makes preparation easier and more efficient.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Cast iron skillet
- Baking sheet
- Mixing bowl
- Knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Cast iron skillet: Ideal for even cooking, it retains heat well, giving your beef a great sear.
- Baking sheet: Perfect for roasting sweet potato slices evenly in the oven.
- Knife: A sharp knife ensures safe and precise cutting of vegetables.
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 (or 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
- Pickled red onions
How to Make Sloppy Joe Bowls
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 415 degrees F. This temperature will ensure crispy sweet potato slices.
Step 2: Roast the Sweet Potatoes
- Place your sweet potato slices on a baking sheet.
- Drizzle with olive oil and massage to coat both sides evenly.
- Sprinkle with kosher salt.
- Roast in the middle rack of your preheated oven for 10-12 minutes until firm but tender.
Step 3: Prepare the Sloppy Joe Mixture
- While the sweet potatoes roast, heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add ghee or olive oil to coat the pan.
- Sauté minced garlic until fragrant (about 10-20 seconds).
- Add diced yellow onion, red onion, and green bell pepper; sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened.
Step 4: Cook the Ground Beef
- Add ground beef to the skillet.
- Cook until browned through (5-10 minutes), draining excess grease if necessary.
Step 5: Combine Sauce Ingredients
Add dijon mustard, yellow mustard, paleo ketchup, coconut aminos, kosher salt, black pepper, tomato paste, chili powder, and apple cider vinegar to the cooked beef mixture. Stir everything together until well combined.
Step 6: Adjust Seasoning
If you prefer a saucier consistency for your sloppy joes, add more ketchup or tomato paste as desired. Taste and adjust additional salt or pepper if needed.
Step 7: Assemble Your Bowls
Place a few slices of roasted sweet potato in each bowl along with some of the sloppy joe mixture beside it. Top with sliced pickles, pickled onions, and a drizzle of dijon mustard before serving.
Enjoy your delightful Sloppy Joe Bowls!
How to Serve Sloppy Joe Bowls
Sloppy Joe Bowls are not only delicious but also versatile, making them perfect for any dinner table. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your meal.
For a Crunchy Texture
- Add Fresh Vegetables: Incorporate diced cucumbers, shredded carrots, or sliced radishes for a refreshing crunch.
- Top with Lettuce: Use crisp romaine or butter lettuce leaves as a base for an added layer of texture.
For Extra Flavor
- Include Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley, cilantro, or chives on top of your bowls for a burst of freshness.
- Use Spicy Condiments: Drizzle with hot sauce or add jalapeños for those who enjoy extra heat.
For a Heartier Meal
- Serve with Quinoa or Rice: Spoon the Sloppy Joe mixture over cooked quinoa or brown rice for a more filling option.
- Add Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado pairs well and adds healthy fats to your meal.
How to Perfect Sloppy Joe Bowls
To make your Sloppy Joe Bowls stand out, consider these helpful tips. They will enhance the flavors and presentation of your dish.
- Bold Seasoning: Don’t be afraid to adjust spices according to your taste. Adding more chili powder or black pepper can give it an exciting kick.
- Quality Ingredients: Using fresh vegetables and quality ground beef makes all the difference in flavor and texture.
- Cook Thoroughly: Ensure the beef is fully cooked before adding sauces for the best consistency in your Sloppy Joe mixture.
- Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter sauce, try adding more paleo ketchup or a touch of honey for natural sweetness.
Best Side Dishes for Sloppy Joe Bowls
Pairing side dishes with your Sloppy Joe Bowls can create a balanced meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.
- Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted until tender complements the hearty main dish.
- Garden Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers offers freshness and crunch alongside the rich flavors.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries provide a fun twist and pair nicely with the savory Sloppy Joes.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can add brightness and balance to the richness of the bowls.
- Cauliflower Rice: Light yet satisfying, cauliflower rice serves as a low-carb alternative that soaks up flavors well.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: The sweetness of grilled corn enhances the dish’s overall flavor profile while adding a summer vibe.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Sloppy Joe Bowls can be simple, but avoiding common mistakes will ensure a delicious result.
- Overcooking the Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes should be tender but not mushy. Keep an eye on them while roasting to avoid a soggy texture.
- Not Using Enough Seasoning: Flavor is key! Ensure you season the meat mixture properly with salt, pepper, and other spices to bring out the best taste.
- Skipping the Sauté Step: Sautéing the vegetables before adding the beef enhances their flavor. Don’t rush this step for optimal results.
- Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Fresh and high-quality ingredients make a big difference. Opt for fresh vegetables and good-quality meats for better flavor.
- Ignoring Texture Variations: Mixing in different textures, like crunchy pickles or creamy mustard, adds interest to your dish. Don’t skip these toppings!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
- Separate sweet potato slices from the meat mixture to maintain texture.
Freezing Sloppy Joe Bowls
- Freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months.
- Consider portioning into smaller containers for easy thawing.
Reheating Sloppy Joe Bowls
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F. Place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warm throughout.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish and cover it loosely. Heat in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring in between.
- Stovetop: Heat over medium heat in a skillet. Stir occasionally until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Sloppy Joe Bowls.
What are Sloppy Joe Bowls?
Sloppy Joe Bowls are a fun take on traditional sloppy joes served over sweet potatoes instead of bread, making them gluten-free and delicious.
Can I use other meats in Sloppy Joe Bowls?
Yes! Feel free to substitute ground turkey or lamb if you prefer different flavors or textures.
How can I customize my Sloppy Joe Bowls?
You can add your favorite toppings such as avocado, jalapeños, or different types of pickles to enhance flavor and texture.
Can I make Sloppy Joe Bowls ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meat mixture ahead of time and store it separately from the sweet potatoes for easy assembly later.
Final Thoughts
These Sloppy Joe Bowls offer an easy dinner option that’s both delicious and versatile. You can customize them with various toppings to suit your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a hearty meal that everyone will love!
Print
Sloppy Joe Bowls
A simple, hearty, and healthier twist on classic sloppy joes. These bowls feature well-seasoned ground beef served alongside roasted sweet potato slices and topped with pickles, onions, and a touch of mustard. They’re paleo, Whole30-friendly, and made entirely with real, wholesome ingredients.
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients
1 large sweet potato, cut into 1/4-inch slices
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil (or avocado oil)
1 teaspoon kosher salt (divided)
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
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
Additional dijon mustard, for topping
Sliced pickles
Pickled red onions
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 415°F.
Arrange the sweet potato slices on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and rub to coat both sides. Sprinkle with a little kosher salt.
Roast on the middle rack for 10–12 minutes, or until firm but tender.
While the potatoes cook, heat a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add ghee or oil and swirl to coat.
Add garlic and cook for 10–20 seconds, until fragrant.
Stir in the onions and bell pepper; sauté 2–3 minutes until the onions soften.
Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart, for 5–10 minutes until fully browned. Drain excess grease.
Add dijon mustard, yellow mustard, ketchup, coconut aminos, remaining kosher salt, pepper, tomato paste, chili powder, and apple cider vinegar.
Stir until well combined.
For a saucier mixture, add additional ketchup and tomato paste. Adjust seasoning as desired.
Add a few sweet potato slices to a bowl, spoon the sloppy joe mixture beside them, and top with sliced pickles, pickled red onions, and a little extra dijon mustard.
Notes
Calories: 204 per serving
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes