This iconic whiskey is a "Jack of all trades" when it comes to cooking. Toss it in some pasta, as a savory dipping sauce, and even bake it into something sweet.
Sloppy Joes for 100
- add review
- #7094
Need to serve a large group (or a gaggle of teenagers)? These sloppy joes are tasty AND easy to make and work well made in a large batch. The recipe can be made ahead of time and reheated when ready to serve. It also freezes well.
serves/makes:
ready in:
2-5 hrs
2-5 hrs
10 reviews
ingredients
20 pounds ground beef
4 large onions, chopped
4 large green bell peppers, chopped
4 cups celery, chopped
1 cup brown sugar, packed
1 cup spicy brown mustard
4 cups ketchup
2 cans (12 ounce size) tomato paste
4 cans (15 ounce size) tomato sauce
6 cups water
1 cup vinegar
2/3 cup Worcestershire sauce
100 hamburger buns
directions
Combine the beef, onions, bell peppers, and celery in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Cook, stirring frequently, until the beef is no longer pink and the vegetables are soft. Drain off any excess grease.
Add the brown sugar, mustard, ketchup, tomato paste, tomato sauce, water, vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce to the beef. Mix well. Bring the mixture to a low simmer, cover, and let cook for 3 hours, stirring occasionally, until thick. If the sauce becomes too dry, add additional water.
When ready to serve, spoon the mixture onto hamburger buns and serve immediately.
The sloppy joe sauce can be made ahead of time and reheated.
recipe tips
Use a large pot or Dutch oven to accommodate the large quantity of ingredients.
Stir the mixture frequently while cooking to prevent sticking and burning.
Adjust the seasonings to taste, especially if you're making substitutions.
Use lean ground beef to reduce the amount of grease you need to pour off.
Try adding other vegetables like carrots or zucchini for added nutrition.
To add a smoky flavor, include a bit of liquid smoke or smoked paprika.
If serving to kids, you can make the mixture less spicy by reducing the mustard and Worcestershire sauce.
For serving, keep the mixture warm in a large slow cooker or chafing dish.
Offer a variety of buns, including whole wheat and gluten-free options, to cater to different dietary needs.
Garnish with cheese, pickles, or jalapenos as desired.
common recipe questions
Can I substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a lighter alternative.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
For a vegetarian version, use a plant-based meat substitute or lentils.
Is there a substitute for spicy brown mustard?
You can use yellow mustard or Dijon mustard as a substitute.
Can I reduce the amount of sugar in this recipe?
Yes, you can reduce the sugar, but it may alter the final taste slightly. You can also use a low-sugar ketchup to reduce the sweetness.
What can I use instead of ketchup in the recipe?
You can use tomato sauce with a bit of added sugar and vinegar to replicate the tangy taste of ketchup.
How do I store and reheat the sloppy joe mixture?
Cool the mixture completely then store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days and reheat on the stove or in a microwave.
Can this recipe be frozen?
Yes, the sloppy joe mixture freezes well. Cool completely then store it in an airtight container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.
How long will the mixture last in the freezer?
Properly stored, it can last for up to 3 months in the freezer.
What are some side dishes to serve with sloppy joes?
Serve with coleslaw, potato salad, baked beans, french fries, or a green salad.
Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Yes, after browning the meat and vegetables, transfer all ingredients to a slow cooker (or multiple slow cookers as needed) and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
What is the best way to serve these sloppy joes to a crowd?
The best/easiest way is to use an assembly line approach. Have the buns put on a plate, then use a scoop to measure out the sloppy joe mix onto the bun. Have the toppings and sides available for people to serve themselves.
nutrition data
396 calories, 21 grams fat, 30 grams carbohydrates, 21 grams protein per serving.
Make your mornings a little less hectic with these overnight breakfast recipes. Prep the night before and enjoy a warm, comforting meal in the morning.
Keeping a can of frozen orange juice concentrate in the freezer means you can make more than just orange juice. Try it in a variety of orange-flavored recipes.
see more cooking for a crowd recipes
reviews & comments
May 24, 2020
I made this for 60 and subbed turkey meat. It was really tasty. I just let it simmer real low until service time.
February 28, 2018
These Sloppy Joeâs are the best! I also love the added feature you have on this site that will adjust the ingredient to the number of servings you need. Thank You😊
September 2, 2017
Quantity was more than enough for 100 sandwiches. However, this recipe is way too sweet and too much Worcestershire sauce. Maybe substitute crushed tomatoes for most of sugar and ketchup?
December 12, 2016
Fantastic recipe! Thought I'd share how I cooked it in case it helps anyone else. First, I needed two large dutch ovens to brown everything. I also used two large roaster ovens instead of roaster pans. Let it simmer until we needed it. Super easy and kept the oven free for other food.
May 22, 2016
This has a wonderful flavor! I put it into the oven instead of on the stovetop, just to get the kitchen all cleaned up, and it worked fine.
April 2, 2015
Made this recipe for a party and everyone loved it. Adjusting the recipe for 25 this time. Really good sloppy joes.
January 10, 2014
I have made this recipe for 150 people two times and preparing to make again . Everybody loved it easy to make night before and heat in oven next day for hour or so . We heated in convection oven in individual pans for service of eight came out of oven ready to serve to table family style. Great recipe.
July 3, 2013
This recipe was a lifesaver! The caterer (bbq) we had planned for a graduation party cancelled at the last minute. This was easy to put together and worked wonderfully!
January 23, 2012
I made this recipe, as written for a bereavement dinner at church for 98 people. I received many complements, and am making again to freeze in smaller batches for quick meals. Thank you so much for this healthier recipe to an old favorite!!
April 4, 2006
I made this for 120 people. I recieved many complements and some requests for the recipe. I will definitely make this recipe again!