Meaty Lentil Sloppy Joes

Meaty Lentil Sloppy Joes: The Budget-Friendly Twist on a Classic Comfort Food your family will absolutely love!

Craving a hearty, satisfying meal that won’t break the bank? Look no further than these Meaty Lentil Sloppy Joes! This clever twist on the beloved American classic combines ground meat with protein-packed lentils, stretching your dollars without sacrificing flavor. Get ready for a messy, delicious adventure that’ll have your taste buds dancing and your wallet sighing with relief.

Imagine the aroma of simmering tomato sauce, fragrant spices, and savory meat filling your kitchen. Now picture the surprised looks on your family’s faces when you reveal the secret ingredient that makes these sloppy joes extra special – and extra economical. These sandwiches are not just a meal; they’re a conversation starter, a budget-saving hero, and a comfort food revolution all rolled into one.

Sloppy joes have been a staple of American cuisine since the early 20th century, but this version brings the dish into the modern era of health-conscious, wallet-wise cooking. By incorporating lentils, you’re adding fiber, vitamins, and minerals to your meal while reducing the overall meat content. It’s a win-win situation that proves comfort food can be both nutritious and affordable. Pair these sandwiches with a crisp coleslaw or a side of sweet potato fries for a complete meal that’ll satisfy even the heartiest appetites.

Meaty Lentil Sloppy Joes Recipe

Ingredients:

1 pound ground beef (80% lean)

1 cup dried brown lentils, rinsed and drained

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 medium onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 green bell pepper, diced

1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce

2 tablespoons tomato paste

2 tablespoons brown sugar

1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

1 teaspoon chili powder

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

3 cups water

8 hamburger buns or Brioche Buns, toast if desired

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté for 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened.

2. Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.

3. Stir in the lentils, tomato sauce, tomato paste, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.

4. Pour in the water and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Stir occasionally and add more water if needed.

5. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. If the mixture is too watery, simmer uncovered for a few more minutes to thicken.

6. Serve the hot lentil and beef mixture on hamburger buns or Brioche Buns.

Air Fryer Instructions:

To toast the buns in an air fryer:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C).

2. Place the buns in the air fryer basket, and cut side up.

3. Cook for 2-3 minutes until lightly toasted and crispy.

Notes:

• For a vegetarian version, omit the ground beef and double the lentils
• Add a dash of hot sauce or diced jalapeños for extra heat
• Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months
• Serving suggestion: Serve with coleslaw and slivered aged cheese
• Use as many vegetables as desired for a more vibrant dish

Nutrition Information

Serving Size: 1 sandwich (1/8 of recipe)

Calories: 380

Fat: 12g

Protein: 22g

Carbohydrates: 48g

Fiber: 6g

Sodium: 580mg

Other Information

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 40 minutes

Equipment: Large skillet or Dutch oven, measuring cups and spoons, cutting board, knife

Estimated cost per serving: $1.50

Total cost: $12.00 (8 servings)

In Conclusion, Meaty Lentil Sloppy Joes

In conclusion, these Meaty Lentil Sloppy Joes offer a delicious and economical twist on a classic American dish. By combining ground beef with protein-rich lentils, you can create a satisfying meal that’s kind to your wallet and nourishing for your body. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or meal prepping for the week ahead, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite in your culinary repertoire.

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