Mississippi Sloppy Joes are a flavorful twist on the classic sloppy joe recipe, inspired by the bold and tangy flavors of Mississippi. This dish combines lean ground beef with rich butter, savory au jus gravy mix, and tangy ranch seasoning, creating a mouthwatering filling for hamburger buns. The addition of pepperoncini peppers and their juice adds a zesty kick that elevates these sloppy joes to a whole new level. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, Mississippi Sloppy Joes are easy to make and sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds lean ground beef: Provides a hearty base for the sloppy joes, offering a good balance of flavor and texture.
- 4 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and helps to create a smooth, flavorful sauce.
- 1 packet au jus gravy mix: Adds depth and savory flavor to the beef.
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix: Infuses the meat with tangy, herby notes that complement the other ingredients.
- ½ cup pepperoncini pepper rings plus ¼ cup juice from jar: Adds a tangy, slightly spicy kick to the sloppy joes.
- 8 hamburger buns: Serve as the perfect vehicle for the flavorful beef mixture.
Instructions
- Brown the Ground Beef:
- Add the ground beef to a large skillet over medium heat. Brown the beef, breaking up the meat as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, drain the fat from the beef.
- Melt the Butter:
- Add the butter to the skillet with the beef over low heat. Allow it to melt completely, stirring occasionally to coat the meat evenly.
- Add Seasonings:
- Once the butter has melted, sprinkle the au jus gravy mix and ranch seasoning mix over the beef. Stir well to ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed throughout the meat.
- Add Pepperoncini and Cook:
- Stir in the pepperoncini pepper rings and the juice from the jar. Add ½ cup of water to the skillet. Let the mixture cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes. The liquid will reduce, creating a rich, flavorful sauce that clings to the beef.
- Serve:
- Spoon the meat mixture over the hamburger buns. Serve hot, allowing the juices to soak into the buns slightly for maximum flavor.
Serving
Mississippi Sloppy Joes are best served hot and fresh. They make a great main dish for lunch or dinner and pair well with a variety of sides. Consider serving them with coleslaw, potato chips, or a simple green salad for a complete meal. These sloppy joes are also perfect for casual gatherings, game day parties, or family dinners.
Notes
- Meat Variations: You can substitute the lean ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of the dish.
- Spice Level: Adjust the number of pepperoncini peppers to control the spice level. For a milder version, use fewer peppers or opt for mild pepper rings.
- Cheese Option: Add a slice of provolone or mozzarella cheese on top of the beef mixture before placing the top bun for a cheesy variation.
- Make-Ahead: The beef mixture can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the mixture.
- Freezing: This beef mixture freezes well. Store in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of meat? Yes, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even pork as a substitute for ground beef. The cooking method and seasonings remain the same.
How can I make this dish spicier? To increase the spice level, add more pepperoncini peppers or include a few dashes of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the beef mixture.
What type of buns should I use? Standard hamburger buns work well for this recipe, but you can also use brioche buns, pretzel buns, or any sturdy roll that can hold the filling without falling apart.
Can I add vegetables to the mixture? Yes, you can add finely chopped onions, bell peppers, or even mushrooms to the beef mixture. Sauté the vegetables with the ground beef until they are tender.
Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free? To make this dish gluten-free, ensure that the au jus gravy mix and ranch seasoning mix are gluten-free, and serve the mixture on gluten-free buns or lettuce wraps.
How do I prevent the buns from getting soggy? To prevent the buns from getting soggy, you can toast them lightly before adding the beef mixture. This creates a barrier that helps keep the buns from absorbing too much liquid.
Can I use homemade ranch seasoning? Yes, homemade ranch seasoning can be used in place of the packet. Combine dried parsley, dill, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
How do I store leftovers? Store any leftover beef mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a bit of water if necessary.
What sides pair well with Mississippi Sloppy Joes? Great side dishes for Mississippi Sloppy Joes include coleslaw, potato salad, sweet potato fries, corn on the cob, or a green salad.
Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker? Yes, you can prepare the beef mixture in a slow cooker. Brown the ground beef and drain the fat before transferring it to the slow cooker. Add the butter, seasonings, pepperoncini, and water, and cook on low for 2-3 hours or until the mixture is heated through and flavors are well combined.
In conclusion, Mississippi Sloppy Joes offer a unique and flavorful twist on a beloved classic. The combination of savory au jus gravy, tangy ranch seasoning, and spicy pepperoncini peppers creates a rich and satisfying filling that is perfect for a quick and easy meal. Whether you’re feeding a family, hosting a casual get-together, or just looking for a delicious new way to enjoy sloppy joes, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Enjoy the robust flavors and simple preparation of Mississippi Sloppy Joes, and make them a staple in your meal rotation.