Sloppy Joe Buns Simplified (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ For the Sloppy Joes

01 - 1 pound ground beef, preferably 90% lean
02 - 1 small can (8 oz) of tomato sauce, ideally unsalted
03 - 1/4 cup BBQ sauce (recommended: Ray's sugar-free original)
04 - 1/2 teaspoon mustard (use Dijon if you can), or start with 1/4 teaspoon if you like less
05 - 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce
06 - 1 teaspoon of onion powder
07 - 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
08 - 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika for flavor
09 - 3/4 teaspoon of sea salt (reduce salt if you’re using regular tomato sauce)
10 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
11 - 1/2 cup of sharp cheddar cheese, grated fresh
12 - Some hamburger buns for serving

# Instructions:

01 - Grab a small bowl. Toss in all your seasonings: garlic and onion powders, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until it looks nice and even.
02 - In another bowl, pour in tomato sauce, BBQ sauce, Worcestershire, and mustard. Stir it all up until smooth.
03 - If your cheddar isn’t already shredded, use a grater to do the job. Set that aside for later.
04 - Grab a large skillet. Cook the beef on medium heat until it’s fully browned with no pink left. Drain off the extra grease.
05 - Put the meat back into the pan. Add your seasoning mix and the sauce you made earlier. Stir really well so it’s all coated.
06 - Add the shredded cheddar to the pan. Stir until the cheese is melted and blended in. Take it off the heat when ready.
07 - Scoop the sloppy joe mix onto the hamburger buns. Add any extra toppings you like and serve immediately.

# Notes:

01 - You can keep leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days. Use a container with a tight lid.
02 - To freeze, let the mixture cool all the way down. Then, store it in a freezer-friendly container for up to 3 months.