There is definitely a direct correlation between messy food and its enjoyability factor. It seems to me that the dirtier the boys get when eating, the more they enjoy the food. And these turkey sloppy joes were certainly no exception.
This is the first time I've made these for this kids. Between Ben's dislike of "saucy" foods, and Jackson's ability to complain about.... well, pretty much everything, I've kept away from this family-favourite until now. But the way the dog was hovering close to my feet while I was cooking signaled that I was on to something good, and I figured if the kids hated the meal they could go hungry the dog could enjoy the sweet and tangy turkey mixture she clearly had a hankering for. Fortunately, the kids liked it, and there were even some leftovers for Rosie, too.
This is a perfect weeknight dinner. Quick and easy. Filling. Nourishing. Tasty. What more could one ask for?
Turkey Sloppy Joes
Serves 6
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, peeled and diced
- 1 carrot, peeled and diced
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 lbs. ground turkey
- 3/4 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons grainy Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 4-6 medium-sized whole-wheat buns
Heat the olive oil in a skillet set over medium-high. Add the onion, carrot and garlic and saute until slightly softened, about 3 minutes. Season with salt.
Add the turkey and stir to combine. Lower the heat to medium and cook until the turkey is no longer pink. While the meat simmers, combine the barbecue sauce, ketchup, mustard, brown sugar and Worcestershire sauce in a glass measuring cup or small bowl. Stir to combine.
Pour the sauce over the turkey and mix well. Cook uncovered for 10 minutes or until the sauce thickens slightly. Serve over warm or toasted buns.





I haven't had Sloppy Joes since I don't know when. These look great and a good reminder for me to make them soon. Happy Easter!
Posted by: Paula | 04/05/2012 at 12:48 PM
YUM. I'm so on a sloppy Joe kick lately! Last week we simmered some red lentils in the sauce and they blended right in. So tasty! Love the use of ground turkey!
Posted by: Julie | 04/07/2012 at 11:54 AM
Hi Jan! I just wanted to let you know how much I love your blog! I have been reading for a few months now, but have never commented before! All of your recipes always look so yummy! Wishing you a wonderful long weekend and Happy Easter! Angie in Edmonton
Posted by: Angie@Echoes of Laughter Blog | 04/07/2012 at 05:59 PM
I just love the sound of these, Sloppy Joes, sounds so delicious, looks it too. Have a good Easter.
Posted by: Jim@Let it go | 04/08/2012 at 06:29 AM
Thanks, Angie! And thanks for commenting. I hope you had a great Easter weekend....
Posted by: Jan Scott | 04/08/2012 at 10:00 PM