Sloppy Joe Sweet Potato Bowls

If you’re looking for a cozy and satisfying dinner that the whole family will love, then these Sloppy Joe Sweet Potato Bowls are just the thing! This recipe is one of my go-to meals on busy weeknights when I need something quick yet nourishing. The combination of roasted sweet potatoes paired with a hearty sloppy joe sauce is not only delicious but also brings a bit of nostalgia to the table. Whether it’s a family gathering or just a casual weeknight meal, these bowls are sure to please everyone.

What makes this dish extra special is how easy it is to make. You’ll enjoy the warm flavors and delightful toppings that really elevate each bite. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies while keeping things fun and comforting.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With prep time under 30 minutes, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the sweet and savory flavors, making it perfect for picky eaters.
• Versatile Toppings: Customize your bowls with pickles, jalapeños, or fresh herbs for added flair!
• Wholesome Ingredients: Packed with nutrients from sweet potatoes and lean beef, it’s a guilt-free comfort food.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the sauce in advance for even quicker weeknight dinners!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for these Sloppy Joe Sweet Potato Bowls are simple and wholesome. You’ll find everything you need at your local grocery store. Let’s gather our goodies!

For the Sweet Potatoes

• nonstick spray (like avocado oil, ghee oil or extra-light olive oil)
• 2 ½ pounds sweet potatoes (diced)
• 3 tablespoons avocado oil
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose season salt
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• ¼ cup parmesan cheese (freshly grated)

For the Sloppy Joe Sauce

• 1 ½ pounds lean ground beef
• 1 ¾ cups ketchup
• ¼ cup water
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 tablespoon prepared mustard
• ½ teaspoon white vinegar
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

For Toppings

• sliced dill pickles
• pickled red onions
• sliced raw jalapeños
• snipped chives or sliced green onions

Variations

One of the best parts about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily adapt it to fit your taste preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or plant-based meat alternatives for a lighter option.
• Try different toppings: Experiment with avocado slices, shredded lettuce, or even corn for an extra crunch.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some diced bell peppers or zucchini into the mix for added nutrition.
• Make it spicy: If you love heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce!

How to Make Sloppy Joe Sweet Potato Bowls

Step 1: Roast the Sweet Potatoes

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread diced sweet potatoes on a baking sheet and drizzle them with avocado oil. Sprinkle with all-purpose season salt, dried parsley, and pepper. Roasting brings out their natural sweetness while creating a crispy texture that pairs perfectly with the sloppy joe sauce.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, add your lean ground beef. Break it up as it cooks until browned. This step adds flavor and ensures your meat is fully cooked before combining it with the sauce.

Step 3: Prepare the Sloppy Joe Sauce

Once your beef is cooked through, drain any excess fat. Stir in ketchup, water, sugar, mustard, white vinegar, paprika, kosher salt, and pepper. Let this simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes so all those flavors meld together beautifully.

Step 4: Assemble Your Bowls

When the sweet potatoes are fork-tender and slightly caramelized—usually after about 25-30 minutes—remove them from the oven. To serve, layer roasted sweet potatoes in bowls topped generously with sloppy joe sauce. Finish off each bowl with sliced dill pickles, pickled red onions, jalapeños, and a sprinkle of chives or green onions for that fresh touch.

Enjoy your Sloppy Joe Sweet Potato Bowls! They’re sure to become a favorite at your table too!

Pro Tips for Making Sloppy Joe Sweet Potato Bowls

Creating the perfect Sloppy Joe Sweet Potato Bowls can be a breeze with a few helpful tips to guide you along the way!

• Prep Ahead: Prepare the sweet potatoes and sloppy joe sauce in advance. This makes assembly quick and easy, especially on busy weeknights when you need a delicious meal in a hurry.
• Use Parchment Paper: Line your baking sheet with parchment paper when roasting sweet potatoes. This prevents sticking and ensures even cooking, making cleanup a cinch!
• Customize Your Toppings: Feel free to mix and match your toppings. Adding avocado or fresh cilantro can give your bowls an extra burst of flavor and freshness.
• Don’t Skip the Seasoning: Make sure to season both the sweet potatoes and the sloppy joe mixture well. Proper seasoning brings out all the flavors, creating a more delicious dish.
• Adjust Spice Levels: If you’re sensitive to heat, adjust the amount of jalapeños or omit them altogether. Conversely, if you love spice, consider adding diced serrano peppers for an extra kick!

How to Serve Sloppy Joe Sweet Potato Bowls

Serving these Sloppy Joe Sweet Potato Bowls is all about presentation and personalization. The vibrant colors of the ingredients create an inviting dish that’s as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the palate!

Garnishes

Enhance your bowls with these simple yet impactful garnishes:
* Fresh herbs: Chopped parsley or cilantro adds a pop of color and freshness.
* Lime wedges: A squeeze of lime juice brightens up the flavors beautifully.
* Avocado slices: Creamy avocado balances out the savory elements for a delightful texture.

Side Dishes

Pair your Sloppy Joe Sweet Potato Bowls with these delicious sides:
* Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw made with cabbage, carrots, and a tangy dressing complements the hearty flavors of the bowls.
* Cornbread: Soft and slightly sweet cornbread is perfect for soaking up any extra sloppy joe sauce.
* Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini or bell peppers add color and nutrients while enhancing the meal’s overall appeal.
* Simple Green Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the warmth of the bowls.

Enjoy crafting your Sloppy Joe Sweet Potato Bowls! Each bite is sure to bring comfort and satisfaction.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Sloppy Joe Sweet Potato Bowls are not just delicious; they’re perfect for meal prep! Making them ahead of time means you can enjoy a hearty, nutritious meal throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the bowls to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers into airtight containers.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Assemble the sweet potato bowls without toppings for freezing.
• Place in airtight freezer containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen bowls overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat in the microwave until warmed through, about 2-3 minutes.
• Alternatively, heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot.

FAQs

Here are some commonly asked questions about Sloppy Joe Sweet Potato Bowls that might help you out!

Can I use other types of meat for Sloppy Joe Sweet Potato Bowls?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be great alternatives if you prefer a leaner option. Just follow the same instructions for preparing the sauce.

How long do Sloppy Joe Sweet Potato Bowls last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, Sloppy Joe Sweet Potato Bowls can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Enjoy your leftovers!

Can I make Sloppy Joe Sweet Potato Bowls vegan?

Yes! You can substitute the ground beef with lentils or plant-based meat alternatives and use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan cheese for a delicious vegan version.

What toppings do you recommend for Sloppy Joe Sweet Potato Bowls?

I love topping mine with sliced dill pickles, pickled red onions, and fresh jalapeños. You could also add avocado or fresh herbs for extra flavor!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delightful Sloppy Joe Sweet Potato Bowls as much as I do! They’re not just a comforting meal; they’re also a wonderful way to nourish yourself and your loved ones. Remember, cooking is all about having fun and experimenting with flavors. I can’t wait for you to give these a try—happy cooking!