Instant Pot Sloppy Joes are saucy, tender, and pack in the flavor. Let the Instant Pot do all the work as it turns simple ingredients into a crowd-pleasing meal. Better yet, this recipe is also freezer-friendly and ready in under 30 minutes!
Get the napkins ready because this is a messy one! Instant Pot Sloppy Joes are one of the easiest weeknight meals out there for you to try. Tender ground beef is drowned in a sweet and savory sauce, creating a kid-friendly dinner that’s fun to eat.
All you need to do is brown the beef, then throw everything else in the Instant Pot and let it do its thing for a few minutes. The high pressure seals all of the flavor into the meat, ensuring each bite is irresistible!
Enjoy this recipe as an easy weeknight dinner or double the batch and freeze it for later.
Jump to:
📋 Why This Recipe Works
The simple flavors in this recipe are elevated and complemented by the addition of chopped green chiles. You won’t be able to tell if they’ve been cooking all day in a slow cooker thanks to the Instant Pot’s ability to infuse all of the flavors together. Plus, the cooking time is shrunk down to just a few minutes rather than hours.
🔪 How To Make The Recipe
Step 1.)
Set the Instant Pot to “Saute” mode and add the ground beef and onion to the pot. Brown and crumble the beef until cooked through. Cancel “Saute” mode and drain the excess fat.
Step 2.)
Stir the green chiles, salt, brown sugar, chili powder, mustard, vinegar, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, tomato sauce, and water into the beef and onions. Lock on the lid and make sure the venting valve is sealed. Set the Instant Pot to cook on high pressure for 3 minutes.
Step 3.)
Allow the pressure to release naturally for 5 minutes, then carefully turn the venting valve to release the remaining pressure. When the pressure pin drops, remove the lid. Serve the finished sloppy joe mixture on hamburger buns with toppings.
👩🏻🍳 Pro Tips
- Drain Fat: Thoroughly drain any excess fat from the beef before adding any other ingredients into the Instant Pot. This will keep your sloppy joe sauce grease-free.
- Simmer: If the sauce is too thin after cooking, set the Instant Pot on “Saute” mode and simmer until the sauce reaches the desired consistency.
- Toast: Toast the hamburger buns before adding the filling and toppings. This will prevent the bread from becoming too soggy.
- Not a fan of ground beef?: Make this recipe with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
👪 Scaling The Recipe
Cooking for two or a crowd? This recipe is easily adaptable. Use the slider on the recipe card to change the quantity and the ingredient amounts will change accordingly.
🍽 Serving and Topping Suggestions
The beauty behind sloppy joes is that they already pack a punch of flavor without needing much else. But, just like a hamburger, it never hurts to load on the toppings. I highly recommend topping each bun with lots of toppings like:
- Pickled red onions
- Fresh coleslaw
- Homemade mayonnaise
- Sliced peperoncini’s
- Dill pickle chips
- Slices of bacon
- Pineapple slaw
- Sliced, melted cheese (American, cheddar or pepper jack)
- Pickle slices
- Avocado
- Sour cream
💭 FAQs
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Just like in the instructions for the Instant Pot, you can begin making sloppy joes in a slow cooker by browning the meat and onions in a skillet on the stovetop.
After the excess grease has been drained, stir the meat and onion mixture into a crockpot along with the rest of the ingredients. Cook on High for 3 hours or on Low for 6 hours.
Give it another stir when it’s done and serve on hamburger buns with your desired toppings.
Can I make this on the stovetop?
You sure can! All it takes to make sloppy joes on the stovetop is one pan and 20 minutes. Find the instructions over at my recipe for Homemade Sloppy Joes.
What’s the Difference Between Manwich and Sloppy Joes?
Canned Manwich sauce is a marketed version of sloppy joe sauce that you can find in the grocery store.
Many people think using canned Manwich sauce will cut down on the time it takes to make sloppy joes, but it’s already such an easy recipe without any shortcuts!
Sloppy joes are simply ground beef (or turkey) simmered in a sweet and tangy tomato-based sauce and served on hamburger buns.
🥘 Leftovers and Storage
Leftover sloppy joes make for a great lunch the next day or as a freezer-friendly meal later on. Make sure the batch has cooled completely before storing it away so it can stay as fresh as possible.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Alternatively, freeze them in a sealed freezer-safe container or bag for 3 months.
You can reheat the leftovers by heating them in a skillet on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through.
📖 Recipe
Instant Pot Sloppy Joes
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef or turkey
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 1 4-ounce can diced green chiles
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- ½ tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- ½ cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 8-ounce can tomato sauce
- ¼ cup water
- 6 hamburger buns
Instructions
- Set Instant Pot on “Saute” mode and add the ground beef and onion to the pot. Brown and crumble the beef until cooked through and cancel “Saute” mode.
- Drain off any excess fat from the meat and stir in the green chiles, salt, brown sugar, chili powder, mustard, vinegar, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, tomato sauce and water. Stir to combine.
- Lock Instant Pot lid in place and make sure the venting valve is sealed.
- Set Instant Pot to cook on high pressure for 3 minutes.
- When the cooking time is up, allow the pressure to release naturally for 5 minutes, then carefully turn the venting valve to release the remaining pressure. When the pressure pin drops, remove the lid.
- Serve on hamburger buns with desired toppings.
Chef's Notes:
- Drain Fat: Thoroughly drain any excess fat from the beef before adding any other ingredients into the Instant Pot. This will keep your sloppy joe sauce grease-free.
- Simmer: If the sauce is too thin after cooking, set the Instant Pot on “Saute” mode and simmer until the sauce reaches the desired consistency.
- Toast: Toast the hamburger buns before adding the filling and toppings. This will prevent the bread from becoming too soggy.
- Not a fan of ground beef?: Make this recipe with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Mosbet says
Mostbet is a leading sports betting platform that also acts as a trusted betting ID provider. It offers a seamless experience with a wide range of sports, competitive odds, and secure access, making it a go-to choice for both beginners and experienced bettors. Visit us: https://mostbet.plus/
Fun88 says
Fun88 stands out as both a reliable sports betting platform and a trusted sports betting ID provider, making it a comprehensive solution for betting enthusiasts. Whether you’re looking for a seamless platform to place your bets or need a verified ID to access exciting betting markets, Fun88 has got you covered. Their user-friendly interface, wide range of sports options, and secure betting environment truly set them apart in the industry. Plus, the Fun88 app makes betting on the go a breeze. Highly recommend exploring Fun 88 for a top-notch betting experience! Visit us:https://fun88.ind.in/
11Xplay says
11Xplay brings thrilling online betting experiences with a variety of sports and casino games like cricket, poker, and roulette. Offering fast payments and live game options, 11Xplay ensures secure gaming and exclusive promotions. Explore an exciting platform trusted across India. Join 11Xplay today and take your gaming adventure to new heights!
Tyler Chase says
Find the perfect Brother Sewing Machine for your projects. These lightweight models are user-friendly for professionals and beginners. While the setup process might be slightly challenging for first-time users, the advanced features and ease of use make it ideal for everyone. With built-in stitches and automatic functions, the machine ensures smooth sewing and professional results every time.
SLOLA says
Absolutely love trying out new recipes! I recently made this one, and it turned out fantastic. The steps were clear, making it a breeze to follow. While I cooked, I also challenged myself with the slope game—great for sharpening my focus! Keep up the amazing work with your recipes, and I look forward to more culinary adventures.
https://slopegame-3d.com/
Liz says
This was an interesting take! Have you considered exploring other angles or perspectives on this topic in a future post. Also i want to tell you some interesting topic on NIPT test in Dubai. If you want to know more just click.
King567 says
King567 is an Indian online betting platform offering diverse options like sports betting, online games, and fantasy sports. With live betting, secure transactions, and 24/7 support, it ensures a smooth, enjoyable experience. Sign up for easy access and exclusive bonuses!
Tigerexch says
Tiger Exch stands out as a reliable and dynamic betting platform catering to sports enthusiasts and gaming lovers. With its secure login process, diverse betting markets, and real-time updates, it has gained popularity among bettors. Enjoy a seamless interface, fast transactions, and 24/7 customer support while betting on cricket, football, and casino games.Tiger Exch
Goldbet7 says
Goldbet7 is the ultimate hub for sports betting enthusiasts and online gamers. Whether you're passionate about cricket, football, or basketball, Goldbet7 offers an extensive range of betting options with competitive odds. Dive into the excitement of live betting and stay engaged with every moment of your favorite sports. For sports lovers, Goldbet7 features a vast array of thrilling games, including slots, roulette, blackjack and more. The platform is designed to provide a seamless, secure, and entertaining experience 24/7. Join thousands of players enjoying the best in sports and gaming entertainment. Visit goldbet7id.com.in today for endless thrills and rewards!
Betbhai9 says
Betbhai9 is a leading online betting platform that caters to sports enthusiasts and casino lovers alike. It offers a diverse range of betting options, including cricket, football, and live casino games, all on a secure and user-friendly interface. Known for its transparency and quick payouts, Betbhai9 ensures an exceptional betting experience. With exciting promotions, dedicated customer support, and easy registration, Betbhai9 is your ultimate destination for secure and entertaining online betting.
Mazaplay says
Mazaplay is your one-stop destination for thrilling sports betting and immersive online gaming experiences. Specializing in cricket betting, Mazaplay allows you to wager on T20 leagues, international Test matches, ODIs, and more. Sports fans can also explore a wide range of betting options on football, tennis, and other popular games. For sports enthusiasts, Mazaplay offers an expansive selection of games, including slots, blackjack, and roulette, ensuring entertainment for everyone. With 24/7 availability, competitive odds, and a user-friendly interface, Mazaplay delivers unparalleled excitement and convenience. Ready to join the action? Visit mazaplaybook.com today and experience gaming like never before!
Mazaplay says
Mazaplay brings you the perfect blend of thrilling sports betting and engaging online gaming. Whether you're a cricket enthusiast eager to bet on T20 leagues, ODIs, and Test matches, or a gaming fan looking for exciting online games like slots and roulette, Mazaplay has it all. Designed for convenience and entertainment, the platform operates 24/7, ensuring you never miss a moment of action. Join thousands of users enjoying seamless gameplay, competitive odds, and rewarding experiences. Visit mazaplay.ind.in today for nonstop fun and excitement!