Sloppy Joes are the kind of comfort food that sparks nostalgia, and this homemade make-ahead version brings that classic flavor back with a modern twist. Born from the need for quick, hearty meals, this sauce is a celebration of simplicity and flavor: tangy ketchup, savory Worcestershire, a kiss of sweetness from brown sugar, and just enough spice to keep things interesting. Whether you’re planning a weeknight dinner or prepping for a party, this sauce is your go-to. This recipe is easy to store, easy to use, and always satisfying when piled high on a toasted bun!

Homemade Sloppy Joe Sauce Recipe

0.0 from 0 votes

Servings

cup

Prep time

minutes

Total time

minutes

This rich and flavorful Make-Ahead Sloppy Joe Sauce combines ketchup, mustard, tomato paste, spices, and broth into a quick-simmered sauce perfect for busy meals. Yields 1 cup, ideal for 1 lb of ground meat. Make ahead and refrigerate or freeze for later.

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Ingredients

1/2 cup Ketchup
2 tbsp Tomato Paste
1 tbsp Yellow Mustard
1 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce
1 tbsp Brown Sugar
1 tsp Garlic Powder
1 tsp Onion Powder
1/2 tsp Smoked Paprika
1/2 tsp Chili Powder (optional)
1/4 tsp Salt
1/4 tsp Ground Black Pepper
1/4 cup Beef Stock/Broth

Directions

Add all the ingredients to a saucepan and place it over low heat.
Stir well until everything is fully combined.
Continue to cook the sauce gently, stirring occasionally, and let it simmer over low heat for 5–7 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
Remove from the heat and allow the sauce to cool completely.
Use as desired, or transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate any leftovers for later use.

Notes

Yielding about 1 cup of sauce, it’s perfect for 1 lb of ground meat and can be made ahead and stored for whenever the craving strikes.
Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 7–10 days, or freeze it for up to 3 months (just thaw in the fridge before use).
To use: simply brown 1 lb of ground meat, drain excess fat, and stir in 3/4 to 1 cup of sauce. Simmer for 5–10 minutes and serve on toasted buns.
Add soy sauce for deeper flavor if using chicken stock, toss in chopped bell pepper or sautéed onion before the sauce for extra texture, and if you like it spicy, stir in some crushed red pepper or a dash of hot sauce to turn up the heat!