Copycat Manwich Sloppy Joe Recipe with Bell Peppers
A homemade version of the classic Manwich sloppy joe that delivers all the tangy-sweet flavor of the original without the processed ingredients. Ground beef is browned and mixed with a rich tomato-based sauce featuring honey, apple cider vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce for that signature sweet and savory taste. Bell peppers add extra texture and flavor while dried onion and garlic provide aromatic depth. Perfect for busy weeknight dinners, casual gatherings, or whenever you're craving comfort food. Serve on burger buns with pickles and chips for a complete meal that both kids and adults will love.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- ½ cup red bell pepper, chopped
- ½ cup green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 15-ounce can tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried minced onion
- 1 teaspoon dried minced garlic
- 1 pinch allspice
- 1 pinch cayenne pepper
- 1 pound ground beef
- salt, to taste(optional)
- 4 burger buns, splitbrioche buns1:1upgrade
Brioche adds richness and holds up well to sauce
Instructions
- 1
Heat oil in medium saucepan over medium heat
- 2
Add bell peppers and saute until tender
- 3
Add tomato sauce, tomato paste, honey, vinegar, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, onion, garlic, allspice, and cayenne
- 4
Whisk to combine and bring to a simmer
- 5
Reduce heat to low and cook stirring frequently
- 6
Heat remaining oil in large skillet
- 7
Add ground beef and cook until browned
- 8
Transfer cooked beef to sauce using slotted spoon
- 9
Stir to combine and continue cooking
- 10
Season with salt to taste
- 11
Divide mixture between buns and serve
Tips
Drain excess fat from ground beef before adding to sauce to prevent greasy sloppy joes
Let sauce simmer the full time to develop rich flavors and proper consistency
Toast burger buns lightly to prevent them from getting soggy
Good to Know
Refrigerate leftovers up to 3 days in sealed container. Reheat gently on stovetop or microwave.
Sauce can be made 1-2 days ahead and refrigerated. Brown beef fresh before serving for best texture.
Serve immediately on toasted buns with pickles, chips, and coleslaw for complete meal.
Common Mistakes
Don't skip simmering time or sauce will be too thin and lack depth
Drain beef fat to avoid greasy mixture that makes buns soggy
Substitutions
FAQ
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, the complete mixture keeps well refrigerated for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on stovetop, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen consistency.
What if I don't have Worcestershire sauce?
You can substitute with soy sauce mixed with a drop of vinegar, or simply omit it. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.
Can I freeze leftover sloppy joe mixture?
Absolutely! Freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in refrigerator and reheat on stovetop, stirring occasionally.