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The Sloppy Joe Bonanza with Sweet Potato Fries is more than just a meal; it's a celebration of comfort food that has a unique way of bringing families together. This dish takes the classic Sloppy Joe—a beloved staple of American cuisine—and elevates it with a modern twist that caters to both taste and nutrition. With its hearty, flavorful filling served on soft, whole wheat buns, paired perfectly with crispy sweet potato fries, this recipe is designed for busy weeknights and casual gatherings alike, ensuring that everyone leaves the table satisfied.

Kid-Friendly Sloppy Joes with Sweet Potato Fries

Dive into the deliciousness of Sloppy Joe Bonanza with Sweet Potato Fries, a perfect combination of comfort food and nutrition. This recipe transforms the classic Sloppy Joe into a family favorite with a flavorful filling served on whole wheat buns, complemented by crispy sweet potato fries. Easy to prepare and perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, this dish brings people together with hearty flavors and delightful aromas. Enjoy a meal that's both satisfying and wholesome!

Ingredients
  

For the Sloppy Joes:

1 lb ground beef (or substitute with ground turkey for a leaner option)

1 small onion, finely chopped

1 small bell pepper, finely chopped (choose between red or green for color)

1 cup ketchup

2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

1 tablespoon packed brown sugar

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

Salt and pepper to taste

4 whole wheat hamburger buns

Optional toppings: shredded cheese, dill pickles, or creamy coleslaw

For the Sweet Potato Fries:

2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into thin fry shapes

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon paprika

1 teaspoon garlic powder

Sea salt to taste

Instructions
 

Prepare the Sweet Potato Fries:

    - Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

      - In a large mixing bowl, combine the sweet potato fries with the olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, and a sprinkle of salt. Toss until all fries are evenly coated.

        - Lay the fries out in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to ensure even cooking.

          - Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway through baking, until they are golden brown and crispy.

            Cook the Sloppy Joe Mixture:

              - In a large skillet, heat over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and bell peppers, sautéing for about 3-4 minutes or until they soften and become fragrant.

                - Add the ground beef (or turkey) to the skillet. Use a spatula to break it apart while cooking. Brown the meat thoroughly, approximately 6-8 minutes, then drain any excess fat from the skillet if necessary.

                  Add the Sauce:

                    - To the browned meat mixture, stir in the ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, and season with salt and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined.

                      - Lower the heat and cover the skillet. Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow flavors to meld together.

                        Assemble the Sloppy Joes:

                          - If desired, lightly toast the hamburger buns to add some crunch.

                            - Spoon a generous portion of the Sloppy Joe filling onto the bottom half of each bun. Add any optional toppings of your choice, such as shredded cheese or pickles, before capping it with the top half of the bun.

                              Serve:

                                - Plate the Sloppy Joes with a side of crispy sweet potato fries. Dig in and enjoy this delicious, kid-friendly feast!

                                  Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes | Servings: 4

                                    - Presentation Tips: Serve on a colorful plate and sprinkle some fresh parsley for a pop of color, or serve with a small bowl of extra coleslaw on the side for added crunch!