Description

This Sloppy Joe Pasta recipe combines the comforting flavors of traditional sloppy joes with hearty pasta for a delicious and easy weeknight meal. Ground beef is simmered in a rich tomato-based sauce with spices, peppers, and onions, then mixed with tender penne pasta, making a satisfying dish the whole family will love.

Ingredients

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Vegetables and Aromatics

1 medium yellow onion diced
1 red bell pepper diced
1 tablespoon chopped parsley optional, for garnish

Main Ingredients

1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
1 pound lean ground beef
10 ounces penne or any short pasta

Liquids and Sauces

3 cups chicken stock
24 ounces strained tomatoes (1 jar or tomato purée)
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

Spices and Seasonings

1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder

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Instructions

Prepare Vegetables: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and red bell pepper and sauté until softened, about 4 minutes.
Cook Ground Beef: Add the lean ground beef, salt, and pepper to the pot. Cook, breaking up the meat with a spoon until browned and fully cooked, about 7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Add Sauces and Seasonings: Stir in the chicken stock, strained tomatoes, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, and garlic powder. Mix until well combined.
Add Pasta: Stir in the penne pasta, ensuring it is fully submerged in the sauce.
Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed the flavors.
Serve: Remove from heat. Sprinkle with chopped parsley if desired and serve warm.

Notes

Calorie information is estimated based on 6 servings; individual results may vary depending on ingredient brands.
You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
For a vegetarian version, replace ground beef with plant-based crumbles and use vegetable stock.
Adding a sprinkle of shredded cheese on top can enhance flavor.
Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving (1/6 of recipe)
Calories: 420 kcal
Sugar: 7 g
Sodium: 650 mg
Fat: 12 g
Saturated Fat: 4 g
Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 45 g
Fiber: 5 g
Protein: 30 g
Cholesterol: 75 mg