Turkey Sloppy Joes

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this recipe packs in bold flavor with fewer calories and less fat than traditional sloppy joes. The ground turkey keeps things light, while the blend of ketchup, tomato sauce, mustard, Worcestershire, and spices gives it that familiar, craveable taste. Plus, with veggies like carrots, onions, and bell pepper mixed in, it’s a hearty, well-rounded meal that’s kid-friendly and adult-approved.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 cup ketchup

• 8 ounces tomato sauce

• 1 tablespoon light brown sugar

• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

• 2 teaspoons chili powder

• 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped

• 1 small orange or yellow bell pepper, chopped

• ½ cup julienned carrots

• 1 lb lean ground turkey

• 8 whole wheat buns

Directions

1. I start by whisking together the ketchup, tomato sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, chili powder, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. I set it aside so it’s ready when I need it.

2. In a large skillet, I heat olive oil over medium-high heat. I add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant.

3. I stir in the chopped onion, bell pepper, and carrots and cook them for around 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re softened.

4. Next, I add the ground turkey and cook it through, breaking it up with a spatula so it browns evenly.

5. Once the turkey is browned, I pour in the ketchup mixture and stir until everything is well coated.

6. I let it simmer for about 10 minutes, until the sauce thickens and clings to the meat and vegetables.

7. I spoon the sloppy joe mixture onto whole wheat buns and serve them hot.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 8 sloppy joes and comes together in just 20 minutes total—prep and cook time included. Each serving is about 259 calories, making it a lighter yet still filling dinner option.

Variations

Sometimes I use ground chicken in place of turkey, or add chopped zucchini or mushrooms for extra veggies. If I want a sweeter twist, I increase the brown sugar slightly or use barbecue sauce in place of the ketchup mixture. For a spicier version, I add a splash of hot sauce or more red pepper flakes.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftover turkey mixture in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm it in a skillet or microwave until hot. It also freezes well—I portion it out, freeze it flat in bags, and thaw it overnight when I need a quick meal.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, the turkey mixture can be made a day or two in advance. I just reheat it before serving and toast the buns for added texture.

Is ground turkey healthier than ground beef?

Yes, lean ground turkey generally has less fat and fewer calories than ground beef, making this version a lighter option.

Can I use ketchup only and skip the tomato sauce?

I’ve tried it with just ketchup in a pinch, but the tomato sauce helps balance the sweetness and adds extra richness to the sauce.

What’s the best type of bun for sloppy joes?

I like whole wheat buns for a healthier option, but brioche or sandwich rolls work great too—just make sure they’re sturdy enough to hold the filling.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely. I swap the ground turkey for lentils or a plant-based ground meat alternative and follow the same steps.

Conclusion

These Turkey Sloppy Joes are the kind of recipe I rely on when I want something fast, flavorful, and a little lighter. Packed with lean protein and fresh vegetables, they deliver all the messy, saucy satisfaction of the classic, without the heaviness. Whether I’m serving a family dinner or prepping a meal for the week, this is a go-to I always come back to.