One Pot Sloppy Joe Ground Beef And Rice Recipe

There’s something so comforting about a Sloppy Joe – that sweet, tangy, saucy beef sandwiched in a soft bun is a timeless classic. But this version takes all the best parts of a Sloppy Joe and makes it even easier (and arguably, more delicious!) by transforming it into a hearty, one-pot meal with rice and lots of melted cheese. If you’re looking for a quick, satisfying dinner that the whole family will love, this recipe for one-pot Sloppy Joe ground beef and rice is about to be your new go-to.

When I first tried this dish, I was honestly just trying to avoid doing too many dishes (aren’t we all?). But what started as a lazy weeknight experiment turned into a hit with my family! Now, this cheesy, savory one-pot meal has become a regular on our dinner table, especially on busy nights when we want something filling but don’t want to spend hours cooking. Plus, the flavors get even better the next day, making leftovers something to actually look forward to.

The origins of Sloppy Joe (and why we’re putting it in rice!)

Sloppy Joes have been an American classic since the 1930s, though there are debates over where they actually originated. Some say it began in Iowa, while others trace it back to a restaurant in Havana, Cuba. Originally a loose meat sandwich with a tangy tomato-based sauce, it quickly became popular for its simplicity and kid-friendly flavors. Over the years, Sloppy Joe has seen countless variations, from the classic sandwich to casseroles, tacos, and even pizza toppings. Adding rice and transforming it into a one-pot meal keeps all those delicious flavors while making it heartier and more versatile. Plus, it’s a dream for anyone who loves a meal that doesn’t leave a mountain of dishes.

The key ingredients (and a few substitution tricks)

To make this Sloppy Joe ground beef and rice dish, you only need a handful of basic ingredients, most of which you might already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need and some tips to make the recipe your own.

• Lean ground beef: The foundation of any good Sloppy Joe is the beef. Using lean ground beef (like 85/15) reduces the amount of grease, making the dish a bit lighter. If you prefer, you could swap in ground turkey or even a plant-based ground “meat” for a twist.
• Diced yellow onions: Onions add sweetness and a bit of depth. If you’re out of yellow onions, white or even red onions work just fine. For a little extra flavor, try caramelizing the onions before adding the beef.
• Condensed chicken broth: The broth helps cook the rice and adds a savory, slightly salty flavor. If you’re avoiding chicken, you can substitute with beef broth or vegetable broth.
• Minute rice: Minute rice is a lifesaver when you want dinner in a flash. You could use regular white rice, but be aware that it’ll take longer to cook, and you may need a bit more liquid.
• Ketchup: This is where the sweet, tangy base for the Sloppy Joe flavor comes from. If you’re out of ketchup, you can use tomato sauce and add a touch more brown sugar.
• Worcestershire sauce: A dash of Worcestershire adds that classic, savory umami flavor. If you don’t have it, try soy sauce with a bit of balsamic vinegar as a substitute.
• Brown sugar: This balances out the tanginess of the ketchup, giving the dish a subtle sweetness. If you prefer less sugar, feel free to adjust the amount to your taste.
• Shredded cheese blend (mozzarella and cheddar): Cheese is what makes this dish truly decadent. The blend of mozzarella and cheddar melts beautifully and adds a gooey, savory finish. Use any cheese you love – sharp cheddar, Colby Jack, or even a spicy pepper jack for a kick.

this RECIPE

Essential kitchen tools for this one-pot wonder

The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity, so you don’t need a lot of tools. Just a few essentials:

• Large sauté pan or deep skillet: A large pan with high sides is perfect for this recipe. You want something wide enough to let the ingredients spread out and cook evenly, but with enough depth to hold all that rice and sauce.
• Stirring spoon or spatula: A sturdy spoon will help you break up the ground beef and stir everything together as it cooks.
• Lid for the pan: Once you add the cheese on top, covering the pan helps it melt to that ooey-gooey perfection.

Step-by-step: Making one-pot Sloppy Joe ground beef and rice

Ready to get cooking? Here’s the breakdown, as if we’re cooking side by side in the kitchen!

1. Cook the beef and onions: Start by heating a large sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and diced onions. As the beef cooks, crumble it with your spoon, mixing in the onions so they soften and become translucent. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once the beef is browned, drain any excess grease.
2. Add the broth and water: Pour in the condensed chicken broth and water, stirring to combine with the beef. This is what will help the rice cook to tender perfection.
3. Stir in the rice: Add the Minute rice, making sure it’s fully submerged in the liquid. Let it simmer on medium heat, stirring occasionally to keep it from sticking to the pan. You’ll know it’s ready when all the liquid has been absorbed, which should take about 5 minutes.
4. Add the sauce ingredients: Now for that signature Sloppy Joe flavor! Add the ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, salt, pepper, and brown sugar. Stir well so everything is evenly mixed. Let it all simmer together for about 4 minutes to marry those flavors.
5. Add the cheese: Remove the pan from heat and stir in 2 cups of the shredded cheese until it’s melted and gooey. Then sprinkle the remaining cup of cheese on top, cover the pan, and let it sit for a few minutes. This allows the cheese to melt and create a deliciously melty layer on top.
6. Serve and enjoy! Grab a spoon, dish it out, and get ready to dig in. This dish is best enjoyed warm, with all that cheesy goodness.

Mix it up: Variations and adaptations

One of the best parts of this recipe is how adaptable it is. Here are a few ideas to change it up:

• Make it spicy: Add a few dashes of hot sauce or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. Or, swap out the regular cheese for pepper jack.
• Vegetarian version: Use a plant-based ground meat substitute and swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth. It’s just as delicious and hearty.
• Southwestern twist: Add in some black beans and corn for extra texture and flavor. Top with sliced green onions and a dollop of sour cream for a Tex-Mex vibe.
• Low-carb option: Substitute the rice with cauliflower rice. Just add it after the beef is cooked since cauliflower rice doesn’t need as much liquid.
• Kid-friendly touch: Stir in a handful of frozen peas or diced bell peppers to sneak in some veggies without much fuss.

How to serve it up

For a simple weeknight meal, you can serve this one-pot dish straight from the pan, family-style. If you’re looking to dress it up a bit, sprinkle some chopped green onions on top, or add a few dashes of hot sauce for color and flavor. Pair it with a crisp side salad or some garlic bread to round out the meal.

Drink pairing suggestions

This dish pairs well with a cold, refreshing drink. A light beer, like a pilsner or lager, complements the tangy flavors of the Sloppy Joe sauce. If you prefer wine, go for something like a Zinfandel or a light Merlot. For a non-alcoholic option, an iced tea with a splash of lemon is perfect!

Storing and reheating leftovers

This recipe makes fantastic leftovers! Store any extras in an airtight container in the fridge, where it will keep for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop a portion in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, adding a sprinkle of cheese on top if it needs a little extra love. You can also reheat it on the stovetop over medium heat with a splash of water to loosen it up.

Scaling the recipe

This recipe makes about four hearty servings, but it’s easy to adjust for a crowd. For more people, just double the ingredients – you may need a larger pan, though! If you’re cooking for one or two, halve the recipe. Just watch the liquid; you might need a bit less.

Potential issues and tips to avoid them

• Rice too mushy? Make sure you’re using Minute rice for this recipe. Regular rice needs more time and liquid, which can throw off the texture.
• Too tangy? Feel free to adjust the ketchup or add a bit more brown sugar for a milder sauce.
• Cheese not melting? Cover the pan and let the heat do its work. If it still resists, a quick blast under the broiler will make it perfectly gooey.

Ready to make this one-pot Sloppy Joe dish?

Give this recipe a try, and feel free to adapt it to make it your own. I hope it becomes a staple in your kitchen like it has in mine. This one-pot Sloppy Joe ground beef and rice is the perfect combination of comfort, convenience, and flavor – all in one pan!

FAQs

1. Can I use regular rice instead of Minute rice?
Yes, but it will need more liquid and take longer to cook. You may also need to adjust the heat to avoid burning.

2. What other cheeses work well?
Sharp cheddar, Colby Jack, or pepper jack are all great options! Just use what you love.

3. How can I make this lower in carbs?
Substitute cauliflower rice for a low-carb version. Add it after the beef is cooked since it requires less cooking time.

4. Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, but it’s best to freeze it without the cheese topping. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove, adding cheese at the end.

5. What should I serve with this?
A crisp green salad or garlic bread complements the dish perfectly.

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