Korean Beef Sloppy Joes

Name: Korean Beef Sloppy Joes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 14 oz ground beef (400 g); 4 tbsp soy sauce (60 ml); 2 tbsp brown sugar (25 g); ¼ cup ketchup (60 g); 1 tbsp sesame oil (15 ml); 4 burger buns; 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional, for garnish); Chopped green onions (for serving)

Sweet, savory and slightly spicy, these Korean Beef Sloppy Joes are a quick weeknight meal. Ground beef is simmered in a flavorful sauce and served on toasted buns with green onions and sesame seeds.

These Korean-inspired sloppy joes put a fun twist on a classic comfort food. With a balance of sweet, savory and umami flavors from soy sauce, brown sugar and sesame oil, they're ready in just 20 minutes; perfect for a quick, satisfying dinner the whole family will love.

If you loved this recipe, try my Miso Salmon, my Potsticker Soup and this Easy Garlic Salmon next!

Ingredients

Gather up these simple ingredients:

Ground beef: Forms the hearty, savory base of the sloppy joe filling.
Soy sauce: Adds salty, umami-rich depth and a Korean flavor twist.
Brown sugar: Balances the savory notes with a touch of sweetness.
Ketchup: Provides tang, moisture and helps thicken the sauce.
Sesame oil: Gives a nutty, aromatic finish that elevates the dish.
Burger buns: Soft, slightly sweet buns hold the saucy beef perfectly.
Sesame seeds and green onions: Optional garnishes for added texture, flavor and visual appeal.

See recipe card for quantities.

Instructions

Here's exactly how to make these Korean Beef Sloppy Joes:

ground beef in pan with ingredients on the side

Step 1: Cook the beef: Brown ground beef in a skillet, breaking it up, and drain excess fat if needed.

Step 2: Add flavor: Stir in soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil and ketchup; simmer until thickened.

toasted buns with ingredients on the side

Step 3: Toast buns: Lightly toast the burger buns while the beef simmers.

Step 4: Spoon beef onto buns.

Step 5: Top with green onions and sesame seeds.

Step 6: Serve hot!

Hint: Use a non-stick frying pan so the beef browns and cooks easily.

Substitutions

Ground beef: Ground turkey, chicken or pork are leaner options that still work well.
Soy sauce: Try tamari or coconut aminos which are great for gluten free or low-sodium versions.
Brown sugar: Go for honey or maple syrup, which add natural sweetness.
Ketchup: I love using gochujang or tomato paste + a bit of sugar instead.
Sesame oil: Olive oil or neutral oil are great swaps.

Variations

Spicy Korean sloppy Joes: Add gochugaru (Korean chili flakes) or sriracha to the sauce.
Cheesy: Top with melted cheese before serving.
Vegetable boost: Stir in finely chopped bell peppers, carrots or mushrooms with the beef.
Sweet and tangy: Add a splash of rice vinegar or kimchi juice to the sauce for extra tang.
Mini Sloppy Joe sliders: Serve on smaller buns for a fun appetizer version.

Equipment

You'll need just a few basic tools for these sloppy joes: a large skillet for browning the beef and simmering the sauce, a spatula or wooden spoon to break up and stir the meat and a toaster or skillet to lightly toast the buns.

Storage

Store leftover sloppy joe mixture in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

Top tip

For extra flavor, let the beef mixture simmer a few minutes longer to thicken and allow the sauce to fully coat the meat.

FAQ

Can I freeze the beef mixture?

Yes, the cooked beef mixture can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat before serving.

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