There’s a delightful moment, one that sparks joy in any home, when a rich, savory aroma fills the kitchen. The first time I made Sloppy Joe Biscuits, it was a spontaneous decision that turned into one of my family’s favorite weeknight meals. Imagine buttery biscuits, warm and golden, embracing a hearty filling of seasoned ground beef, tangy tomato sauce, and a hint of sweetness.
After a busy day, I wanted something reassuringly familiar yet exciting. That’s when I grabbed a can of biscuit dough from the fridge and went to work, channeling my creative chef instincts. The result? A delightful twist on the classic Sloppy Joe that’s not only incredibly easy but also brings everyone together around the table. In just 25 minutes, you can put together these crowd-pleasing treats, making them perfect for busy families or casual gatherings. Trust me, once you try them, you won’t want to go back to fast food!
Why You'll Love This Sloppy Joe Biscuits
- These Sloppy Joe Biscuits are incredibly easy to make, taking just 25 minutes from start to finish.
- The flavor combination of the savory beef and tangy sauce enveloped in golden biscuits is absolutely irresistible.
- They are versatile enough to suit any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a fun gathering with friends.
- Plus, their delightful presentation in individual muffin cups makes them visually appealing and sure to impress your guests.
Sloppy Joe Biscuits Ingredients
Get ready to create a delicious twist on a classic!
For the Filling
- 1 lb ground beef – a flavorful base; you can substitute with ground turkey for a leaner option.
- 1 small onion, diced – adds a nice sweetness; try shallots for a milder flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – brings aromatic goodness; garlic powder can be used in a pinch.
- 1 cup tomato sauce – provides moisture and depth; use crushed tomatoes for a chunkier texture.
- 1/3 cup ketchup – adds tang and sweetness; barbecue sauce works well too for a smoky flavor.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce – enhances umami; soy sauce is a good substitute if needed.
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard – balances out the flavors; Dijon mustard adds a nice kick.
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar – rounds off the acidity of tomatoes; honey can be a natural alternative.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt – essential for flavor; adjust based on your choice of beef or substitutes.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper – adds a touch of spice; feel free to increase for more heat.
For the Biscuit Shells
- 1 can refrigerated biscuit dough (8 biscuits) – forms the perfect, buttery shell for your filling; homemade dough can be used for an extra touch.
For Garnish
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional) – adds a pop of color and freshness; chives make a great alternative.
Indulge in these delightful Sloppy Joe Biscuits—your family will thank you!
How to Make Sloppy Joe Biscuits
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Preheat your oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your biscuits will bake evenly and become golden brown. Don’t forget to lightly grease a 12-cup muffin tin to prevent sticking!
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Brown the beef: In a skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Stir occasionally, cooking it for about 5–7 minutes until it’s browned and crumbled. Drain any excess fat for a leaner filling.
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Sauté the aromatics: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 2–3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant, adding a wonderful depth of flavor.
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Mix in the sauces: Stir in the tomato sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, yellow mustard, and brown sugar. Let this simmer for 5–7 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste—this is where the magic happens!
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Prepare the biscuit shells: Open your can of refrigerated biscuit dough and flatten each biscuit slightly with your hands. Place each one into the greased muffin cups, pressing down gently to create a little shell.
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Fill the cups: Generously spoon the flavorful meat mixture into each biscuit shell, filling them up to the top. The filling should be heaped—more is always better for these savory bites!
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Bake to perfection: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 12–15 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the biscuits are golden and puffed up beautifully!
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Cool and garnish: Allow the Sloppy Joe Biscuits to cool for about 5 minutes in the tin. If desired, sprinkle with chopped parsley for a touch of color and serve warm. Enjoy every bite!
Optional: Serve with pickles on the side for an added crunch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Sloppy Joe Biscuits are a fantastic recipe to prepare ahead of time, making your weeknight dinners a breeze. You can prepare the meat filling up to 3 days in advance; simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To maintain optimal flavor and moisture, let the filling cool completely before refrigerating. Additionally, you can also pre-fill the biscuit shells and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours. Just remember to cover them with plastic wrap to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake them straight from the fridge, adding an extra minute or two to the cooking time if they’re cold. This way, you’ll have delicious, hearty Sloppy Joe Biscuits ready to serve with minimal effort!
How to Store and Freeze Sloppy Joe Biscuits
Room Temperature: Store leftover Sloppy Joe Biscuits in an airtight container for up to 1 day. They’re best enjoyed freshly baked, but can sit out for a short time.
Fridge: Keep any uneaten biscuits in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Seal them in a container to maintain moisture and prevent them from drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual biscuits in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing flavor.
Reheating: To reheat, simply place the thawed or chilled biscuits in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. Enjoy your delicious Sloppy Joe Biscuits again!
Sloppy Joe Biscuits Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this recipe your own with these fun twists and substitutions!
- Turkey Twist: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey for a lighter, leaner option without sacrificing flavor.
- Veggie Delight: Swap ground beef for finely chopped mushrooms or lentils for a satisfying vegetarian take that’s packed with nutrients.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the filling for an exciting burst of heat that spice lovers will adore.
- Herb Infusion: Mix in a tablespoon of chopped fresh basil or oregano into the filling for an aromatic twist that brightens up every bite.
- Cheesy Bliss: Top each biscuit with a sprinkle of shredded cheese during the last few minutes of baking for a melty, indulgent finish. This is a great way to add a luxurious touch to the dish!
- BBQ Style: Replace ketchup with your favorite barbecue sauce for a smoky, sweet flavor that transforms these biscuits into a summer favorite.
- Whole Wheat: Use whole wheat biscuit dough instead of regular for a healthier, heartier shell that pairs wonderfully with the savory filling.
- Sweet & Savory: Incorporate a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar into the filling to enhance the flavors with a tangy kick that balances the richness beautifully.
Explore these variations and discover new family favorites that will keep everyone coming back for more!
What to Serve with Sloppy Joe Biscuits?
After indulging in these savory bites, consider rounding out your meal with delightful side dishes and beverages that keep the comfort alive.
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Creamy Coleslaw: A cool, crunchy slaw provides a refreshing contrast to the warm, savory biscuits, adding a nice textural balance to the meal.
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Sweet Potato Fries: These crispy, slightly sweet fries bring a satisfying crunch and a hint of natural sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the robust flavors.
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Garlic Green Beans: Tender green beans sautéed with garlic add a vibrant touch of green and complement the hearty biscuits perfectly, enhancing the meal’s appeal.
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Corn on the Cob: Juicy, sweet corn brings summer vibes to the table, with its sweet flavor harmonizing beautifully with the richness of the Sloppy Joe filling.
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Pickles: Adding briny pickles on the side offers that extra zing, perfect for balancing the savory taste of the biscuits while providing a crispy bite.
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Root Beer Float: For a bit of fun, serve this nostalgic treat for dessert; the cool creaminess of vanilla ice cream with fizzy root beer makes for a delightful way to end the meal.
Each of these pairings contributes unique flavors and textures, ensuring a memorable dining experience with your Sloppy Joe Biscuits!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making Sloppy Joe Biscuits, ensure you drain excess fat after browning the beef to avoid greasy filling.
- To add an extra layer of flavor, sauté the onions and garlic until they are translucent, enhancing the overall taste.
- For a perfectly formed biscuit shell, flatten each biscuit slightly with your hands before pressing them into the muffin cups.
- Keep an eye on the baking time and check for a golden brown color on the biscuits at the 12-minute mark to prevent overcooking.
Sloppy Joe Biscuits Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best ground beef for my Sloppy Joe Biscuits?
Absolutely! When choosing ground beef, look for 80% lean and 20% fat for a juicy filling. The meat should be bright red and free from any dark spots, indicating freshness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken works beautifully too!
How long can I store leftover Sloppy Joe Biscuits in the fridge?
You can store any uneaten Sloppy Joe Biscuits in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure they’re in an airtight container to maintain their moisture and keep them from drying out.
Can I freeze Sloppy Joe Biscuits and how?
Very! To freeze, wrap each cooled biscuit individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be kept frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through.
What should I do if my biscuits aren’t rising properly?
Sometimes biscuit dough can be temperamental! If your Sloppy Joe Biscuits aren’t rising, check the expiration date on your biscuit dough. If it’s fresh, ensure your oven is preheated properly to the right temperature. Avoid opening the oven door multiple times while baking to preserve heat, which is essential for those beautiful, fluffy biscuits!
Are Sloppy Joe Biscuits suitable for kids with allergies?
If you’re preparing Sloppy Joe Biscuits for kids with allergies, be mindful of the ingredients. You can substitute the beef with ground turkey or use gluten-free biscuit dough. Always check labels for potential allergens like gluten, soy, or dairy, especially with the sauces, to ensure everyone can enjoy this delightful meal safely!
Sloppy Joe Biscuits
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 12-cup muffin tin to prevent sticking.
- Brown the beef: In a skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Stir occasionally, cooking for about 5–7 minutes until browned, draining any excess fat.
- Sauté the aromatics: Add diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 2–3 minutes until the onion is translucent and garlic is fragrant.
- Mix in the sauces: Stir in tomato sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, yellow mustard, and brown sugar. Let simmer for 5–7 minutes until thickened. Season with salt and pepper.
- Prepare the biscuit shells: Flatten each biscuit slightly and place into the greased muffin cups, pressing down gently.
- Fill the cups: Spoon the meat mixture into each biscuit shell, filling them up to the top.
- Bake to perfection: Place in the oven and bake for 12–15 minutes until biscuits are golden and puffed.
- Cool and garnish: Allow to cool for about 5 minutes in the tin. Sprinkle with chopped parsley if desired and serve warm.
