My husband’s heart belongs to sloppy Joes—pure, hearty man food that never fails to satisfy. I, on the other hand, am obsessed with one-bowl meals for their versatility and balance. These Sloppy Joe Bowls are the ultimate compromise: I get my nutrient-packed, customizable bowl, my husband can load his filling and toppings onto a bun, and our toddler happily digs in (minus the spicy jalapeños, onions, and pickles). It’s a family-friendly win that brings everyone to the table with smiles!
What makes this dish so lovable? Beyond its crowd-pleasing flavors, it’s versatile, quick to whip up, and packed with nutrition. The sweet potatoes provide a fiber-rich, vitamin-A-packed base, while the lean ground beef (or turkey/chicken) delivers protein to keep you full and energized. Bell peppers add a dose of vitamin C, and the customizable toppings let you sneak in extra veggies or healthy fats. Whether you’re craving comfort food or a wholesome meal, this recipe delivers both flavor and feel-good nutrition.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Nutritious and Balanced: Sweet potatoes are loaded with fiber, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants, supporting digestion and immunity. Lean ground beef (or poultry) provides high-quality protein for muscle health, while bell peppers add a vitamin C boost. Optional toppings like pickles, greens or coleslaw increase the veggie content, making this a well-rounded meal.
- Family-Friendly: Everyone can customize their bowl or bun, from picky toddlers to spice-loving adults. It’s a meal that adapts to all tastes!
- Quick and Easy: Ready in about 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Versatile: Choose your base (sweet potatoes, rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice) and toppings to suit your dietary needs or preferences.
- Comfort Food with a Healthy Twist: You get all the nostalgic, tangy flavor of sloppy Joes without the guilt, thanks to wholesome ingredients like unsweetened ketchup and minimal added sugars.
Sloppy Joe Bowls
Equipment
- 1 Baking sheet
- 1 Oven or air fryer for the sweet potatoes
- 1 large skillet or pot for the stove
Ingredients
For the Sweet Potatoes:
- 3 sweet potatoes diced into 1-inch cubes
- 2 Tbsp avocado oil
- 1/2 tsp Garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika or regular paprika
- salt and pepper to taste
For the Sloppy Joe Sauce:
- 1-2 tsp avocado oil or other neutral oil
- 2 Lbs lean ground beef or ground turkey/chicken; I used 1 lb 96% lean and 1 lb 93% lean
- 2 bell peppers diced (substitute with carrots or mushrooms if preferred)
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1 cup ketchup I used Primal Kitchen unsweetened
- 3/4 cup water
- 2 Tbsp coconut sugar maple syrup or your favorite sweetener
- 2 tsp prepared yellow mustard or Dijon for a twist
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar reduce to 2 teaspoons for less tang
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp sea salt or kosher salt
- 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
Optional Toppings*
- Sliced dill or bread and butter pickles
- sliced or Pickled red onions I made my own quick pickled onions
- Candied or raw jalapeños
- Chopped chives or sliced green onions
- Coleslaw
- drizzle of hot honey
Other Options For Serving:
- Baked or roasted sweet potatoes, White or brown rice, quinoa, cauliflower rice, roasted broccoli, mixed greens see post below for LOTS of serving ideas!
Instructions
Make the Sweet Potatoes:
- Preheat your oven and a large, rimmed baking sheet to 400℉ (200℃).
- In a large bowl, toss diced sweet potatoes (skin on or peeled, your choice) with 2 tablespoons avocado oil, a sprinkle of garlic powder, sea salt, and paprika. Toss to coat evenly.
- Carefully remove the hot baking sheet from the oven, spray with nonstick spray, and spread the sweet potatoes in an even layer.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, rotating the pan halfway through, until fork-tender and caramelized in spots.
Make the Sloppy Joe Sauce:
- While the sweet potatoes roast, heat 1-2 teaspoons avocado oil in a large pan or shallow pot over medium heat.
- Add the ground beef (or turkey/chicken) and break it up with a wooden spatula. Cook until no longer pink, about 10 minutes.
- Drain excess fat, then stir in diced bell peppers, minced garlic, ketchup, water, apple cider vinegar, sweetener, mustard, paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Stir to combine and simmer until heated through and slightly thickened.
- Prep your desired toppings while the sauce simmers.
Assemble the Bowls:
- Divide your choice of base (roasted sweet potatoes, rice, quinoa, cauliflower rice, or greens) among bowls.
- Spoon the sloppy Joe mixture over the base.
- Add toppings like pickles, pickled red onions, jalapeños, chives, or coleslaw to taste. (Skip spicy or tangy toppings for kids if needed!) Drizzle with hot honey if using and Enjoy!
Notes
These Sloppy Joe Bowls are perfect for meal prep or when you want comfort food that’s both delicious and good for you. The mix of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors, plus the endless customization options, will have your family coming back for seconds. Try it out and see why it’s a staple in our house!
Customize your Sloppy Joe Bowls
I am all about customizable so the best sloppy joe bowl toppings add texture, flavor, and balance to the dish. Here are top choices if you really want to make it your own:
- Shredded Cheese: Cheddar or pepper jack for melty, tangy richness.
- Pickles: Dill pickle chips for a crisp, tart crunch.
- Coleslaw: Creamy or vinegar-based for cool contrast and crunch.
- Jalapeños: Fresh or pickled for a spicy kick.
- Green Onions: Chopped for mild, fresh bite.
- Sour Cream: A dollop for creamy, tangy depth.
- Crispy Onions: Fried onion strings for savory crunch.
- Avocado: Sliced or mashed for creamy, buttery texture.
- Hot Sauce: A drizzle for extra heat and zing.
- Hot Honey: A drizzle for extra sweetness and a slight kick.
- Fresh Herbs: Cilantro or parsley for a bright finish.
If sweet potatoes are not your thing, there are lots of other options for your sloppy joe bowl base. Make it your own: mashed potatoes or polenta for comfort, rice or quinoa for lighter options, or cornbread for a Southern twist.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and hearty, soaks up sauce well.
- Rice: White, brown, or cauliflower rice for a lighter, neutral base.
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet and savory, pairs with the tangy meat.
- Quinoa: Nutty and protein-packed, adds texture.
- Cornbread: Slightly sweet, crumbly, and absorbs flavors.
- Roasted vegetables: Broccoli, cauliflower, zucchini or spaghetti squash can step in for the low-carb folks
- Polenta: Creamy or grilled for a smooth or firm base.
- Sweet Potato Mash: Sweet and savory, balances the tanginess.
- Tater Tots: Crispy and fun, holds up to the sauce (this would be my husband’s favorite).
- Baked Beans: Adds a smoky, sweet layer.
