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Healthy Sloppy Joes

A guilt-free twist on a classic favorite, these Healthy Sloppy Joes are quick to make and packed with flavor, perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 lb lean ground beef
  • ½ medium yellow onion, minced
  • ¼ cup finely chopped green bell pepper
  • ½ teaspoon salt (plus more to taste)
  • ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • ¾ cup tomato sauce
  • ¼ cup unsweetened Primal Kitchen ketchup
  • ¼ cup water
  • 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • ¾ teaspoon chili powder
  • 12 teaspoons hot sauce (optional)
  • For serving: 4 gluten-free buns or baked sweet potatoes

Instructions

  1. Sauté the aromatics: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced onion and bell pepper. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened.
  2. Brown the beef: Add in the ground beef, breaking it apart with your spatula as it cooks. Season with salt and black pepper. Cook until browned, stirring occasionally (roughly 5-7 minutes).
  3. Add garlic: Toss in minced garlic and continue cooking for another minute.
  4. Stir in the sauce: Pour in the tomato sauce, Primal Kitchen ketchup, water, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, and chili powder. Stir until everything is combined.
  5. Simmer: Bring your mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes.
  6. Add any additional hot sauce, taste and adjust the salt or sweetness as needed.
  7. Prepare to serve: Toast your gluten-free buns or bake your sweet potatoes while the mixture simmers.

Notes

Feel free to add diced vegetables like carrots or zucchini, or try vegetarian substitutes like lentils or mushrooms for a different twist.

Nutrition

Keywords: healthy sloppy joes, comfort food, gluten-free, quick dinner, nutritious meal