Mississippi Sloppy Joes
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds lean ground beef
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1 packet au jus gravy mix
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1/2 cup pepperoncini pepper rings, plus 1/4 cup juice from jar
- 8 hamburger buns
Instructions:
- Brown the lean ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat, breaking up the meat as it cooks. Drain the fat from the beef once cooked.
- Add the butter to the skillet with the cooked beef over low heat and let it melt.
- Sprinkle the au jus and ranch seasoning mixes over the beef, stirring well to coat.
- Stir in the pepperoncini pepper rings and 1/4 cup of juice from the jar, along with 1/2 cup of water.
- Let the mixture cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. The liquid will reduce down, and the flavors will meld.
- Spoon the meat mixture generously onto the hamburger buns.
- Serve the Mississippi Sloppy Joes hot and enjoy!
Most Popular Questions and Answers:
- Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
- Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for the ground beef if you prefer a lighter option. Just be aware that the flavor may differ slightly.
- Can I make this recipe in advance?
- Yes, you can prepare the meat mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
- Are pepperoncini peppers spicy?
- Pepperoncini peppers have a mild level of spiciness, so they add flavor without overwhelming heat. If you’re sensitive to spice, you can reduce the amount of peppers or omit them entirely.
- What can I serve with Mississippi Sloppy Joes?
- These Sloppy Joes pair well with classic sides like potato chips, coleslaw, or a simple green salad. You can also serve them with fries or potato wedges for a hearty meal.
- Can I freeze leftovers?
- Yes, you can freeze leftover Sloppy Joe meat mixture for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Can I use homemade ranch seasoning instead of a packet?
- Absolutely! If you prefer homemade seasoning, you can use a combination of dried herbs and spices like garlic powder, onion powder, dried dill, and parsley.
- Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?
- Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Simply brown the ground beef on the stove, then transfer it to the slow cooker along with the remaining ingredients. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or until heated through.
- What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
- Reheat leftover Sloppy Joes in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent them from drying out.
- Are there any vegetarian options for this recipe?
- Yes, you can make a vegetarian version of Mississippi Sloppy Joes using plant-based ground meat alternatives or lentils instead of beef.
- Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried seasoning?
- Fresh herbs can be used as a substitute for dried seasoning, but keep in mind that the flavor may be slightly different. Use about three times the amount of fresh herbs compared to dried.
Top 15 Tips and Secrets:
- Brown the ground beef well to develop rich flavor and texture.
- Drain excess fat after browning the beef for a leaner dish.
- Adjust the amount of ranch seasoning and pepperoncini peppers to suit your taste preferences.
- Use unsalted butter to control the saltiness of the dish.
- Let the meat mixture simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Toast the hamburger buns before assembling the Sloppy Joes for added crunch.
- Experiment with different types of buns or bread for variation.
- Garnish the Sloppy Joes with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color.
- Serve with a side of crispy French fries for a classic pairing.
- Use high-quality au jus and ranch seasoning mixes for the best flavor.
- Make sure the hamburger buns are sturdy enough to hold the meat mixture without becoming soggy.
- Consider adding a slice of cheese to each Sloppy Joe for extra indulgence.
- Use a slotted spoon to serve the meat mixture to prevent excess liquid from making the buns soggy.
- Store any leftover meat mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for easy reheating.
- Enjoy the tangy, savory flavors of these Mississippi Sloppy Joes with friends and family!