Turkey Sloppy Joes | Ground Turkey Sloppy Joe Recipe

PUBLISHED January 21, 2026· MODIFIED January 21, 2026 · by the author listed in the recipe card 1275 words. · About 7 minutes to read this article.· This post may contain affiliate links · As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases· Leave a Comment

If you’re a fan of comfort food classics with a twist, get ready for a mouthwatering journey with our Turkey Sloppy Joes recipe. These hearty sandwiches are a delightful combination of savory ground turkey, tangy tomato sauce, and a hint of sweetness, all nestled between soft buns.

Why You’ll Love This Leaner Take On A Classic

Quick & Easy. Ready in under 30 minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
Family-Friendly. Packed with flavor that both kids and adults will love, making them a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Versatile. Customize the seasoning to suit your taste preferences, whether you prefer a little extra spice or a touch of smokiness.
Budget-Friendly. Made with simple, affordable ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry.

These Turkey Sloppy Joes are sure to become a staple in your recipe collection, providing a satisfying and delicious meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Are Turkey Sloppy Joes Healthy?

Yes, Turkey Sloppy Joes can be a healthier alternative to traditional beef Sloppy Joes. Here’s why:

Lean Protein. Ground turkey is lower in fat compared to ground beef, making it a leaner source of protein.
Less Saturated Fat. Turkey contains less saturated fat than beef, which can help lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.
Lower Calorie Content. Turkey typically has fewer calories per serving compared to beef, making it a suitable option for those watching their calorie intake.
Nutrient-Rich. Turkey is rich in essential nutrients such as protein, iron, zinc, and B vitamins, which are important for overall health and well-being.
Versatile. Turkey can easily be incorporated into a variety of dishes, providing a nutritious base for meals like Sloppy Joes without sacrificing taste or flavor.

Overall, Turkey Sloppy Joes can be a nutritious and delicious option for those looking to enjoy a healthier version of this classic comfort food.

What’s The Difference Between Sloppy Joes And A Sloppy Jane?

While Sloppy Joes are made with ground beef, Sloppy Janes are made with plant-based protein alternatives, catering to vegetarian or vegan diets. Both dishes share the same concept of a savory, saucy filling served on a bun, offering a delicious and satisfying meal option.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ground Turkey– Lean ground turkey is the star of the show, providing a healthier alternative to traditional ground beef.
Onion– Adds flavor and aroma to the dish, enhancing the overall taste.
Bell Pepper– Provides a pop of color and freshness, as well as a subtle sweetness.
Garlic– Adds depth of flavor and enhances the savory profile of the dish.
Tomato Sauce– Forms the base of the Sloppy Joes, providing richness and tanginess.
Ketchup– Adds sweetness and depth of flavor to the sauce.
Worcestershire Sauce– Provides a savory umami flavor and depth to the sauce.
Brown Sugar– Balances out the acidity of the tomato sauce and adds a touch of sweetness.
Mustard– Adds a tangy kick and enhances the overall flavor profile.
Seasonings– A blend of chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper adds depth and complexity to the sauce.

How To Make Turkey Sloppy Joes

Cook the Turkey. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground turkey, onion, bell pepper, and garlic until the turkey is no longer pink and the vegetables are tender.
Make the Sauce. Stir in the tomato sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, mustard, and seasonings. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and the flavors have melded together.
Assemble the Sandwiches. Spoon the turkey mixture onto hamburger buns and serve hot.

Tips And Tricks

Here are some tips and tricks to help you make delicious Turkey Sloppy Joes:

Choose Lean Ground Turkey. Opt for lean ground turkey to keep the dish lighter and healthier. Look for ground turkey with a low fat content to ensure that your Sloppy Joes are not too greasy.
Add Veggies. Sneak in some extra veggies for added flavor and nutrition. Finely chopped onions, bell peppers, carrots, and celery are great options to incorporate into the Sloppy Joes mixture. Sauté them along with the turkey until they are soft and fragrant.
Season Well. Turkey can be bland on its own, so be sure to season the meat mixture generously. Use a combination of spices like chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder to add depth of flavor. Don’t forget to add salt and pepper to taste.

Variations

Here are some tasty variations for Turkey Sloppy Joes to switch up the flavors and add variety:

Spicy- Add some heat to your Sloppy Joes by incorporating diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper into the mixture. You can also stir in some hot sauce or red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
Tex-Mex- Give your Sloppy Joes a Tex-Mex twist by seasoning the turkey with taco seasoning and adding ingredients like black beans, corn, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and a squeeze of lime juice. Top with shredded cheese, diced avocado, and fresh cilantro for a south-of-the-border flair.
Mushroom- Enhance the flavor and texture of your Sloppy Joes by adding sautéed mushrooms to the mixture. The earthy taste of mushrooms pairs well with the turkey and adds an extra layer of richness.

What Side Dishes Go With Turkey Sloppy Joes?

Turkey Sloppy Joes are a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are some delicious options to complement the flavors:

Sweet Potato Fries– The natural sweetness of sweet potato fries balances the savory flavors of the Sloppy Joes perfectly. Plus, they add a satisfying crunch to the meal.
Roasted Vegetables– Roasted vegetables, such as carrots, zucchini, bell peppers, or broccoli, offer a nutritious and flavorful side option. Season the vegetables with herbs and spices for extra taste.
Corn on the Cob– Grilled or boiled corn on the cob is a classic side dish that pairs well with Sloppy Joes. The sweetness of the corn complements the savory flavors of the dish.

How Long Do They Last?

Leftover Turkey Sloppy Joes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

Can You Freeze Them?

Yes, you can freeze Turkey Sloppy Joes for up to 3 months. Allow the mixture to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

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