Name: Greek Sloppy Joes Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 1½ lbs Ground Beef; 2 tbsp olive oil; ½ red onion; ½ cup green bell pepper; 2 garlic cloves; 1 cup tomato sauce; 1 cup beef broth; ¼ cup tomato paste; 1 tsp oregano; ½ cup feta; ½ cup kalamata olives

Transform your classic comfort food with a Mediterranean twist by creating delightful Greek sloppy joes. This recipe combines the rich flavors of ground beef with the zesty kick of kalamata olives and feta cheese, all wrapped in a warm, toasted brioche bun.

Photos of Greek Sloppy Joes Recipe

A few ingredients in this recipe might not be staples in everyone's pantry. Kalamata olives have a distinct briny flavor and are typically found in the deli section or with other pickled products. Feta cheese, a crumbly and tangy cheese, is usually available in the specialty cheese section of the supermarket. Oregano, while common, can sometimes be overlooked, so double-check your spice rack before heading to the store.

Ingredients for Greek Sloppy Joes

Ground beef: The base of the sloppy joes, providing a hearty and savory foundation.

Olive oil: Used for cooking the beef and vegetables, adding richness and flavor.

Red onion: Adds a sweet and mild flavor, balancing the richness of the beef.

Green bell pepper: Adds a fresh, slightly sweet crunch to the mixture.

Garlic: Provides a pungent and aromatic flavor, enhancing the overall taste.

Tomato sauce: Forms the base of the sauce, adding depth and acidity.

Beef broth: Adds a savory and rich flavor to the sauce, helping to blend the ingredients.

Tomato paste: Thickens the sauce and intensifies the tomato flavor.

Oregano: Adds a classic Mediterranean herbaceous note.

Feta: Provides a tangy and creamy contrast to the rich meat sauce.

Kalamata olives: Introduces a briny and slightly tart flavor, enhancing the Mediterranean profile.

One reader, Etheline Brewer says:

The Greek sloppy joes recipe is a delightful twist on a classic! The combination of feta and kalamata olives adds a burst of flavor, making each bite irresistible. Quick to prepare and perfect for a weeknight dinner. Highly recommend!

Etheline Brewer

Techniques Required for Making Greek Sloppy Joes

How to chop onions: Peel the onion, cut it in half, and then make horizontal and vertical cuts to achieve a fine dice. How to chop bell peppers: Remove the stem and seeds, then slice the pepper into strips and dice into small pieces. How to mince garlic: Peel the garlic cloves, then finely chop them until they are in very small pieces. How to brown ground beef: Break apart the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat and cook until it is no longer pink and has a brown color. How to reduce sauce: Cook the sauce over medium heat until it thickens and the liquid evaporates to the desired consistency. How to toast brioche buns: Slice the buns in half and place them cut-side down on a skillet or grill until they are golden brown.

How To Make Greek Sloppy Joes

Have a filling and delicious brunch with this greek sloppy joes made with tomato gravy, cheese, ground beef, and olives topped on a toasted brioche bun.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 10 minutes

Total: 20 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1½lbsground beef
2tbspolive oil
½red onion,chopped
½cupgreen bell pepper,chopped
2garlic cloves,minced
1cuptomato sauce
1cupbeef broth
¼cuptomato paste
1tsporegano
½cupfeta
½cupkalamata olives

Instructions

Add the beef, olive oil, onions, and green bell pepper to a large skillet on medium-high heat breaking it apart.
Cook until well browned for 5 to 6 minutes then add in the garlic, tomato sauce, beef broth, tomato paste, and oregano then continue cooking until the sauce starts to evaporate.
When the sauce is reduced, top with feta and olives then serve inside a toasted brioche bun.

Nutrition

Calories: 609.44kcal
Fat: 46.93g
Saturated Fat: 16.95g
Trans Fat: 2.01g
Monounsaturated Fat: 22.24g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.99g
Carbohydrates: 11.90g
Fiber: 2.85g
Sugar: 6.42g
Protein: 35.09g
Cholesterol: 137.46mg
Sodium: 948.79mg
Calcium: 169.39mg
Potassium: 997.09mg
Iron: 5.47mg
Vitamin A: 63.18µg
Vitamin C: 24.66mg

Helpful Technique Tip for Greek Sloppy Joes Recipe

To enhance the flavor of your ground beef, make sure to let it develop a deep brown crust before adding the other ingredients. This caramelization process, known as the Maillard reaction, adds a rich, savory depth to your Greek Sloppy Joes.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Greek Sloppy Joes

Pre-chop vegetables: Dice the red onion and green bell pepper in advance to save time during cooking.

Use pre-minced garlic: Opt for jarred minced garlic to skip the peeling and chopping.

Batch cook ground beef: Cook extra ground beef and freeze portions for future meals.

Pre-measure ingredients: Measure out the tomato sauce, beef broth, and tomato paste before starting.

Use a food processor: Quickly chop vegetables using a food processor to save time.

Toast buns in advance: Toast the brioche buns while the meat mixture is cooking.

Substitute Ingredients For Greek Sloppy Joes Recipe

ground beef - Substitute with ground turkey: Ground turkey is a leaner option and provides a similar texture and flavor profile.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a mild flavor, making it a good alternative for cooking.
red onion - Substitute with yellow onion: Yellow onions have a slightly milder flavor but can be used interchangeably in most recipes.
green bell pepper - Substitute with red bell pepper: Red bell peppers are sweeter and provide a similar texture and color contrast.
garlic cloves - Substitute with garlic powder: Use 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder for each clove of garlic to maintain the garlic flavor.
tomato sauce - Substitute with crushed tomatoes: Crushed tomatoes provide a similar consistency and can be seasoned to taste.
beef broth - Substitute with chicken broth: Chicken broth is a lighter alternative that still adds depth of flavor.
tomato paste - Substitute with ketchup: Ketchup can be used in a pinch, though it is sweeter, so adjust other seasonings accordingly.
oregano - Substitute with Italian seasoning: Italian seasoning contains oregano and other herbs that complement the dish.
feta - Substitute with goat cheese: Goat cheese has a similar tangy flavor and crumbly texture.
kalamata olives - Substitute with black olives: Black olives are milder but provide a similar briny flavor and texture.

Presentation Ideas for Delicious Greek Sloppy Joes

Serve smaller portion sizes: Create elegant, bite-sized portions of the Greek Sloppy Joes by using mini brioche buns. This allows for a refined presentation and easy handling.
Use decoration: Garnish each mini sloppy joe with a small sprig of fresh oregano and a thin slice of kalamata olive on top of the feta to add a touch of color and sophistication.
Plate with precision: Arrange the mini sloppy joes on a sleek, white platter in a neat row. Ensure each one is evenly spaced to create a visually appealing presentation.
Add a side element: Include a small side of tzatziki sauce in a decorative ramekin for dipping. This adds an authentic Greek touch and enhances the flavor profile.
Incorporate texture: Place a few toasted pita chips on the side of the platter to provide a contrasting crunch and complement the soft texture of the sloppy joes.
Highlight ingredients: Use a small, clear bowl to display some of the key ingredients like crumbled feta, sliced kalamata olives, and finely chopped red onion. This not only adds visual interest but also showcases the freshness of the ingredients.
Use a clean, minimalist approach: Ensure the plate is free of any smudges or drips. The clean lines and minimalist presentation will emphasize the elegance of the dish.
Enhance with lighting: Use soft, focused lighting to highlight the textures and colors of the Greek Sloppy Joes. This will make the dish look even more appetizing and professional.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Greek Sloppy Joes

Large skillet: A wide, flat-bottomed pan used for browning the ground beef and cooking the vegetables and sauce.
Wooden spoon: A sturdy utensil for breaking apart the ground beef and stirring the ingredients.
Chef's knife: A sharp knife for finely chopping the red onion, green bell pepper, and garlic cloves.
Cutting board: A safe surface for chopping the vegetables and garlic.
Measuring cups: Tools for accurately measuring the tomato sauce, beef broth, and tomato paste.
Measuring spoons: Tools for measuring the olive oil and oregano.
Spatula: A flexible tool for scraping down the sides of the skillet and ensuring even cooking.
Toaster: An appliance for toasting the brioche buns before serving.
Serving spoon: A large spoon for scooping the finished Greek sloppy joe mixture onto the buns.
Mixing bowl: A bowl for holding the feta and kalamata olives before topping the mixture.

Storing and Freezing Greek Sloppy Joes

To store leftover Greek sloppy joes, allow them to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
When reheating, add a splash of beef broth or water to help moisten the mixture if it appears dry. Heat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through.
For longer storage, freeze the cooled sloppy joe mixture in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
To freeze individual portions, scoop the mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Transfer the frozen portions to a freezer bag, removing as much air as possible. This method allows for easy reheating of single servings.
When ready to serve, thaw the frozen sloppy joe mixture in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Add a little beef broth or water if needed to achieve the desired consistency.
Avoid freezing the feta cheese and kalamata olives as toppings, as they may lose their texture and flavor when thawed. Instead, add fresh toppings when serving the reheated sloppy joes.

How To Reheat Leftover Greek Sloppy Joes

Reheat the greek sloppy joes in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through and the sauce is bubbling. This method allows the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly, creating a more intense taste experience.
Place the leftover greek sloppy joes in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through, stirring halfway through the reheating process. This method is quick and convenient, but may result in a slightly softer texture.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the leftover greek sloppy joes to an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. This method helps maintain the texture of the ground beef and allows the flavors to develop further.
For a crispy twist, place the leftover greek sloppy joes on a baking sheet and top with additional feta cheese and sliced kalamata olives. Broil on high for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges of the meat mixture are slightly crispy.
Transform your leftover greek sloppy joes into a new dish by stuffing them into bell peppers or zucchini boats. Cut the vegetables in half, remove the seeds, and fill them with the reheated sloppy joe mixture. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the filling is heated through.

Interesting Fact About Greek Sloppy Joes

A unique twist on the classic sloppy joes recipe, this Greek-inspired version incorporates Mediterranean flavors like feta cheese and kalamata olives, offering a deliciously tangy and savory experience.

Is Making Greek Sloppy Joes at Home Cost-Effective?

The Greek sloppy joes recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. Using ground beef, olive oil, red onion, green bell pepper, garlic, tomato sauce, beef broth, tomato paste, oregano, feta, and kalamata olives, the ingredients are relatively affordable and accessible. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-$20 USD. Overall Verdict: 8/10.

Are Greek Sloppy Joes Healthy or Unhealthy?

The Greek sloppy joes recipe, while flavorful, has some aspects that could be improved to make it healthier. The use of ground beef and feta cheese contributes to the dish's high saturated fat content, which can increase the risk of heart disease and other health issues when consumed in excess. Additionally, the recipe lacks vegetables, which are essential for providing fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Swap ground beef for lean ground turkey or chicken to reduce saturated fat
Use a whole wheat or multigrain bun instead of a brioche bun to increase fiber intake
Add more vegetables to the dish, such as diced tomatoes, spinach, or zucchini, to boost nutrient content
Reduce the amount of feta cheese or opt for a lower-fat variety to decrease saturated fat
Use low-sodium tomato sauce and beef broth to control salt intake
Serve the sloppy joes with a side salad or roasted vegetables to create a more balanced meal

By incorporating these changes, you can transform the Greek sloppy joes into a more nutritious and well-rounded dish without compromising on taste. The added vegetables will provide essential nutrients and fiber, while the leaner protein sources and whole grain bun will help reduce the overall fat and increase the complex carbohydrate content. These modifications will make the meal more satisfying and beneficial for overall health.

Editor's Opinion on This Greek Sloppy Joes Recipe

This Greek-inspired twist on sloppy joes is a delightful fusion of flavors. The combination of ground beef, tangy feta, and briny kalamata olives offers a unique and savory profile. The use of oregano and garlic enhances the Mediterranean essence, while the tomato sauce and paste provide a rich, hearty base. Serving it on a toasted brioche bun adds a touch of elegance and texture. Overall, this recipe is a refreshing and flavorful take on a classic comfort food, perfect for those looking to explore new culinary horizons.

Enhance Your Greek Sloppy Joes Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Greek Salad: Elevate your Greek Sloppy Joes experience with a refreshing Greek Salad. The crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and tangy feta cheese will perfectly complement the rich flavors of the main course. A drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of oregano ties it all together, making each bite a harmonious blend of textures and tastes.

Lemon Herb Rice: Add a zesty twist to your meal with Lemon Herb Rice. The bright lemon flavor and fragrant herbs create a delightful contrast to the savory ground beef in the sloppy joes. This side dish not only adds a burst of color to your plate but also enhances the overall dining experience with its refreshing taste.

Roasted Garlic Potatoes: Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with Roasted Garlic Potatoes. These crispy, golden potatoes infused with the rich aroma of roasted garlic will add a satisfying crunch to your meal. The creamy interior of the potatoes pairs wonderfully with the hearty texture of the sloppy joes, making it a match made in culinary heaven.

Tzatziki Sauce: Cool down the heat with a dollop of Tzatziki Sauce. This creamy yogurt-based sauce, mixed with cucumbers, garlic, and a hint of dill, provides a refreshing counterpoint to the robust flavors of the Greek Sloppy Joes. It's the perfect way to balance out the richness of the dish while adding an extra layer of flavor.

Stuffed Grape Leaves: Take your taste buds on a Mediterranean journey with Stuffed Grape Leaves. These delicate vine leaves filled with a savory mixture of rice, herbs, and spices offer a unique and flavorful side that complements the Greek-inspired sloppy joes. Each bite is a delightful explosion of taste and texture, making it an unforgettable addition to your meal.

Alternative Recipes Similar to Greek Sloppy Joes

Mediterranean Stuffed Peppers: Imagine vibrant bell peppers filled with a savory mix of ground beef, rice, tomatoes, and herbs. Topped with melted feta cheese and a sprinkle of parsley, these stuffed peppers are a delightful burst of Mediterranean flavors.

Greek Meatball Pitas: Juicy meatballs seasoned with oregano and garlic, nestled in warm pita bread with a refreshing tzatziki sauce. Add some cucumber, tomatoes, and red onion for a perfect handheld meal.

Spanakopita: Layers of flaky phyllo dough encase a rich filling of spinach, feta cheese, and herbs. This classic Greek pastry is perfect as an appetizer or a light main course.

Moussaka: A hearty casserole featuring layers of eggplant, potatoes, and a spiced ground beef mixture, all topped with a creamy béchamel sauce. This dish is a comforting and flavorful journey through Greek cuisine.

Greek Chicken Souvlaki: Tender pieces of chicken marinated in lemon, garlic, and oregano, then grilled to perfection. Serve with pita bread, tzatziki, and a side of Greek salad for a complete meal.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Greek Sloppy Joes

Appetizers:

Stuffed Grape Leaves: Delight your guests with stuffed grape leaves. These delicate parcels are filled with a savory mixture of rice, herbs, and spices. The grape leaves provide a slightly tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with the filling. Serve them with a side of tzatziki sauce for an extra burst of freshness. The combination of textures and flavors will leave everyone wanting more.

Spanakopita Triangles: Introduce your guests to the flaky and flavorful world of spanakopita triangles. These delightful pastries are made with layers of phyllo dough filled with a rich mixture of spinach, feta cheese, and herbs. The crispy exterior contrasts perfectly with the creamy, savory filling. Serve them warm, and watch as they disappear from the plate in no time.

Desserts:

Baklava Cheesecake: Baklava Cheesecake is a delightful fusion of two beloved desserts. Imagine the rich, creamy texture of cheesecake combined with the nutty, honey-soaked layers of baklava. The base is a traditional graham cracker crust, but the magic happens with the addition of finely chopped walnuts and pistachios mixed with cinnamon and sugar. The filling is a luscious cream cheese mixture, and the top is adorned with layers of phyllo dough, brushed with butter and drizzled with honey syrup. This dessert offers a perfect balance of creamy and crunchy textures, making it an unforgettable treat.

Greek Yogurt Panna Cotta: Greek Yogurt Panna Cotta is a sophisticated yet simple dessert that brings a touch of elegance to any meal. This panna cotta is made with Greek yogurt, giving it a tangy twist and a creamy texture. The gelatin base is infused with vanilla and honey, creating a delicate flavor profile. To elevate the dish, top it with a berry compote made from fresh blueberries, raspberries, and a hint of lemon zest. The result is a light, refreshing dessert that pairs beautifully with a variety of main courses, offering a perfect end to a delightful meal.

Why trust this Greek Sloppy Joes Recipe:

This recipe combines the rich flavors of ground beef, olive oil, and feta to create a unique twist on a classic dish. The addition of kalamata olives and oregano brings an authentic Greek touch, while the tomato sauce and beef broth ensure a savory, well-balanced taste. The use of fresh ingredients like red onion, green bell pepper, and garlic guarantees a flavorful and satisfying meal. Trust this recipe for its blend of traditional and innovative elements, promising a delightful culinary experience.

Share your thoughts on this Greek Sloppy Joes Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know how it turned out for you!

FAQ:

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute if you're looking for a leaner option. Just keep in mind that it might cook a bit faster, so keep an eye on it.

What can I use if I don't have kalamata olives?

No worries! You can use any type of olives you prefer, or even capers for a different twist. Just make sure to adjust the quantity to your taste.

How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

You can swap the ground beef with a plant-based ground meat substitute or even lentils. Just follow the same steps and adjust the cooking time as needed.

Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?

Yes, you can! The filling can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge. Just reheat it on the stove before serving.

What type of bun works best for this recipe?

I love using toasted brioche buns because they're soft and slightly sweet, which pairs well with the savory filling. But feel free to use any bun you like!