There’s something about the aroma of Memphis BBQ Sloppy Joes that wraps around you like a warm hug on a chilly day. Picture this: tender, pulled beef drenched in a smoky, tangy sauce, piled high on a soft bun, waiting to be devoured. Each bite is a flavor explosion, with sweet and spicy notes dancing across your taste buds like they just won the culinary lottery.

Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- Can I use a slow cooker for Memphis BBQ Sloppy Joes?
- What sides pair well with these Sloppy Joes?
- Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
- 📖 Recipe Card
Now imagine it’s a lazy Sunday afternoon. You’ve got friends over, laughter fills the air, and suddenly someone breaks out the BBQ sauce. The anticipation builds as everyone gathers around the kitchen, eyeing that bubbling pot of goodness. You know that Memphis BBQ Sloppy Joes will steal the spotlight at your next gathering. So grab your apron, roll up those sleeves, and prepare for an epic flavor adventure!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This dish is incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings
- The blend of smoky and sweet flavors creates a taste sensation that everyone will crave
- Plus, the vibrant colors of the ingredients make this dish visually appealing on any table
- Versatile enough for any occasion, these Sloppy Joes can even be served at picnics or game days!
I remember when I first made Memphis BBQ Sloppy Joes for our family reunion; my cousin declared it the best thing he’d ever tasted.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ground Beef: I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for the perfect balance of flavor and moisture.
- Onion: Use sweet onions for added flavor; they’ll caramelize beautifully in the pan. For more inspiration, check out this chewy caramel cookies recipe.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds depth; avoid powdered if possible for maximum flavor. For more inspiration, check out this garlic butter green beans recipe.
- BBQ Sauce: Choose your favorite brand or homemade; the sauce is key to authenticity.
- Brown Sugar: A touch of sweetness balances out the tanginess of the sauce perfectly.
- Buns: Soft hamburger buns are ideal; look for ones that will hold all that juicy goodness without falling apart.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Cook the Beef and Onions: In a large skillet over medium heat, add ground beef and chopped onions. Cook until the beef is browned and onions are translucent for about 7-10 minutes.
Add Garlic and Sauce: Mix in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Pour in BBQ sauce along with brown sugar, stirring until well combined.
Simmer to Perfection: Reduce heat and let it simmer uncovered for about 15 minutes. This allows flavors to meld beautifully while making your kitchen smell amazing.
Prepare Your Buns: While simmering, lightly toast hamburger buns under a broiler until golden brown. This step adds texture and prevents sogginess from all that delicious filling.
Assemble Your Sloppy Joes: Generously spoon the BBQ mixture onto toasted buns. Top with pickles or coleslaw if desired—this adds crunch and freshness!
Serve Hot!: Serve immediately while hot with extra napkins on hand because trust me—things could get messy! Enjoy every bite of your Memphis BBQ Sloppy Joes alongside your favorite sides! perfect alongside BBQ sliders. fried goat cheese appetizer delicious corn dip recipe.
With these simple steps, you’ll create a dish that will have everyone gathered around the table asking for seconds—and maybe even thirds! Enjoy every moment as you savor each delightful bite bursting with flavor!
You Must Know
- Memphis BBQ Sloppy Joes are more than just a meal; they combine smoky, tangy flavors and juicy textures
- The aroma of slow-cooked meat fills the kitchen, making it feel like a backyard barbecue even in winter
- Perfect for family dinners or game day gatherings!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve mouthwatering Memphis BBQ Sloppy Joes, start by simmering the sauce while browning the ground beef. a hearty chicken dish This multitasking makes your dish flavorful and saves time.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your Sloppy Joes! Swap out beef for pulled pork or turkey, add jalapeños for heat, or use different buns to give your dish a unique spin.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat for optimal texture without drying out.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect Memphis BBQ Sloppy Joes, consider using freshly toasted buns to enhance texture
- Browning the meat well deepens flavor and always let the sauce simmer longer for richer taste
- Don’t forget to taste as you go!
Cooking these Memphis BBQ Sloppy Joes took me back to summer cookouts with friends, where laughter mingled with smoky aromas. Everyone always asked for seconds!
FAQ
Can I use a slow cooker for Memphis BBQ Sloppy Joes?
Absolutely! Cook on low for about six hours for rich flavors.
What sides pair well with these Sloppy Joes?
Classic sides include coleslaw or potato chips for crunch and freshness.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the sauce and meat a day ahead; just reheat before serving.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Memphis BBQ Sloppy Joes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Memphis BBQ Sloppy Joes are the ultimate comfort food, combining tender, pulled beef with a smoky, tangy sauce, all nestled in a soft bun. Perfect for gatherings or casual weeknight dinners, this dish is both easy to prepare and packed with flavor. With sweet and spicy notes dancing on your palate, each bite is a celebration of deliciousness that will have everyone coming back for more!
Ingredients
- 1 lb 80/20 ground beef
- 1 medium sweet onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 4 soft hamburger buns
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef and chopped onions until browned and onions are translucent (7-10 minutes).
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Add BBQ sauce and brown sugar; mix well and let simmer uncovered for about 15 minutes.
- While simmering, lightly toast hamburger buns under the broiler until golden brown.
- Generously spoon the BBQ mixture onto toasted buns and serve hot.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 Sloppy Joe (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg