Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a dish that’s as hearty as it is delicious! Our SC Beef Lentil BBQ Sloppy Joes combine the savory goodness of ground beef and the wholesome nutrition of lentils, all smothered in a rich, tangy BBQ sauce. This mouthwatering recipe not only satisfies your cravings but also brings a unique twist to the classic sloppy joe that your family will love. Perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings, these sloppy joes are a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for seconds. Dive into our recipe and discover how easy it is to whip up this comforting American favorite!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 4 hrs
Total Time: 4 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup lentils, rinsed
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 6 hamburger buns
Instructions
- Begin by preparing all your ingredients. Rinse the lentils under cold water in a fine mesh strainer until the water runs clear. Set aside.
- In a large skillet or pot, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook until the beef is browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Once the beef is cooked, add the rinsed lentils to the skillet, followed by the BBQ sauce. Stir everything together until well combined.
- Add 2 cups of water to the mixture and season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet or pot, and let it simmer for about 4 hours. Stir occasionally, adding more water if necessary to keep the mixture from becoming too dry.
- After 4 hours, check the lentils for tenderness. If they are soft and fully cooked, remove the pot from heat. If they need more time, continue cooking until they reach your desired consistency.
- While the lentil and beef mixture is cooking, prepare your hamburger buns by toasting them lightly, if desired.
- To serve, spoon the beef and lentil BBQ mixture onto the bottom half of each toasted hamburger bun. Top with the other half of the bun.
- Enjoy your SC Beef Lentil BBQ Sloppy Joes warm, with optional sides such as coleslaw or pickles.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, you can rinse and prepare your lentils the night before. This allows them to soak up flavors more easily during cooking.
- Flavor Boost: For an extra kick, consider adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a splash of hot sauce to the BBQ sauce for a smoky, spicy flavor.
- Slow Cooker Option: If you prefer a hands-off approach, transfer the beef and lentil mixture to a slow cooker after browning the beef. Cook on low for 6-8 hours for a deliciously tender result.
- Keep it Moist: While simmering, keep an eye on the mixture. If it starts to dry out, add a little more water or broth to maintain the perfect consistency.
- Bun Choices: Experiment with different types of buns! Whole grain, brioche, or even gluten-free buns can add a delightful twist to your sloppy joes.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair your sloppy joes with classic sides like coleslaw, pickles, or sweet potato fries for a complete meal that everyone will enjoy.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 65mg
