Sloppy Joes are a beloved, nostalgic meal for many. Originating in the United States, they combine seasoned ground beef with a tangy tomato-based sauce, typically served on a hamburger bun. For those looking to enjoy this classic flavor in a new way, sloppy joe turnovers are a fantastic option. These hand-held treats transform the traditional sandwich into a flaky, golden pastry filled with rich, flavorful beef—a perfect snack, appetizer, or meal for any occasion.
In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know to make sloppy joe turnovers, from the basics of the filling to tips for creating the perfect flaky pastry. Whether you’re an experienced home cook or just starting in the kitchen, you’ll find all the guidance you need here.
Ingredients at a Glance
Filling:
- Ground beef: Provides the essential hearty base of the filling.
- Onion and bell pepper: Adds sweetness and a touch of crunch to the filling.
- Tomato sauce and ketchup: Contribute tanginess and moisture.
- Worcestershire sauce: Adds depth and umami.
- Mustard and brown sugar: Provide a sweet and tangy balance.
- Garlic powder and chili powder: Enhance the savory profile with a hint of spice.
Pastry:
- Puff pastry: For a light, crispy turnover. You can use store-bought for convenience or make your own.
- Egg wash: Helps give the turnovers a beautiful golden finish.
Basic Sloppy Joe Turnovers Recipe
Servings:
This recipe yields about 8 turnovers, depending on the size you choose.
Preparation Time:
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Cook time: 25 minutes
- Total time: 45 minutes
Ingredients Table
| Ingredient | U.S. Measurements | Metric Measurements |
|---|---|---|
| Ground beef | 1 lb | 450 g |
| Onion, chopped | 1 small | 1 small (about 100 g) |
| Bell pepper, chopped | 1/2 cup | 60 g |
| Garlic powder | 1 tsp | 5 g |
| Chili powder | 1 tsp | 5 g |
| Tomato sauce | 1 cup | 240 ml |
| Ketchup | 2 tbsp | 30 ml |
| Worcestershire sauce | 1 tbsp | 15 ml |
| Mustard | 1 tsp | 5 ml |
| Brown sugar | 1 tbsp | 15 g |
| Salt | 1/2 tsp | 2.5 g |
| Black pepper | 1/4 tsp | 1.25 g |
| Puff pastry sheets | 2 sheets (approx. 10×10 inches) | 2 sheets (approx. 25×25 cm) |
| Egg | 1 (for egg wash) | 1 |
| Water (for egg wash) | 1 tbsp | 15 ml |
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Sloppy Joe Filling
- Cook the Ground Beef: Start by placing a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until the beef is browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Add Vegetables: Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the skillet with the ground beef. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened.
- Season the Filling: Sprinkle in the garlic powder and chili powder, stirring well to evenly coat the beef and vegetables.
- Add the Sauce Ingredients: Pour in the tomato sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, and brown sugar. Stir well to combine.
- Simmer the Filling: Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure the flavors blend. Taste the mixture and season with salt and black pepper to your preference.
- Cool the Filling: Once cooked, set the filling aside to cool for a few minutes. Cooling is important so the hot filling doesn’t melt the pastry when assembled.
Step 2: Preparing the Puff Pastry
- Thaw the Pastry (if using store-bought): If you’re using frozen puff pastry, remove it from the freezer about 20 minutes before starting to allow it to thaw. Puff pastry should be slightly cool to the touch and pliable but not sticky.
- Roll Out the Pastry: On a lightly floured surface, gently roll out each sheet to smooth any creases. Aim for an even thickness of about 1/8 inch (or approximately 3 mm).
- Cut the Pastry Squares: Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut each sheet of pastry into 4 equal squares, about 5 inches (12.5 cm) each. This should give you a total of 8 squares.
Step 3: Assembling the Turnovers
- Add the Filling: Place about 2-3 tablespoons of the sloppy joe mixture in the center of each pastry square. Be careful not to overfill, as this can make sealing the pastry difficult.
- Fold and Seal: Fold each square diagonally to form a triangle. Using the tines of a fork, press down along the open edges to seal each turnover. If the pastry is not sticking well, you can dip your fingers in water and lightly moisten the edges before pressing.
- Brush with Egg Wash: In a small bowl, beat the egg with 1 tablespoon of water to create an egg wash. Using a pastry brush, lightly brush the tops of the turnovers with the egg wash. This will help them bake to a golden-brown color.
Step 4: Baking the Turnovers
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Bake the Turnovers: Arrange the turnovers on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1-2 inches apart. Place them in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is golden and puffed.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the turnovers from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet. Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips for Making Perfect Sloppy Joe Turnovers
- Use Quality Puff Pastry: A good-quality puff pastry makes all the difference in texture. Store-bought options can be very convenient, but homemade can also be rewarding if you have the time.
- Drain Excess Fat: If the ground beef is very greasy, it’s best to drain the excess fat after browning. This will keep the filling from becoming too oily and heavy.
- Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Sloppy Joe fillings are adaptable! Feel free to increase or decrease the chili powder, brown sugar, or mustard according to your preference. If you like it spicier, a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes can add some kick.
- Keep the Pastry Cold: Puff pastry should remain cool until it goes into the oven. Warm pastry can be difficult to handle, and it won’t puff as well. If it gets too warm while assembling, place the turnovers in the fridge for a few minutes before baking.
- Seal the Edges Well: To prevent the filling from leaking out during baking, make sure the edges are well-sealed. Press firmly with a fork, and don’t hesitate to re-seal if it starts to come apart.
Variations and Serving Suggestions
- Cheesy Sloppy Joe Turnovers: Add a small piece of cheddar or mozzarella cheese in with the filling before sealing the turnovers. The cheese will melt beautifully, adding a rich, gooey texture.
- Vegetarian Sloppy Joe Turnovers: For a meat-free option, substitute the ground beef with cooked lentils or a plant-based ground meat alternative. The seasonings and sauce will remain the same.
- Spicy Sloppy Joes: Add a minced jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce to the filling for a spicier flavor profile. Perfect for those who love a little extra heat!
- Serve with Dipping Sauces: While delicious on their own, sloppy joe turnovers pair well with a variety of dipping sauces. Try serving them with ranch, spicy ketchup, or even a tangy barbecue sauce.
- Make-Ahead Tip: Sloppy joe turnovers can be assembled in advance and stored in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. Just be sure to brush them with egg wash right before baking.
Nutritional Overview
These sloppy joe turnovers are rich and flavorful but can also be modified to suit dietary preferences. Here’s a rough nutritional estimate for one turnover (assuming 8 turnovers total):
- Calories: ~300 kcal
- Protein: ~12 g
- Fat: ~18 g
- Carbohydrates: ~22 g
- Fiber: ~2 g
- Sugars: ~4 g
Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on ingredient brands and portion sizes.
Conclusion
Sloppy Joe turnovers are a delightful twist on the traditional sloppy joe sandwich. With a crisp, flaky puff pastry exterior and a savory, tangy filling, these turnovers make an irresistible snack or meal for both kids and adults. Not only are they easy to make, but they’re also versatile and can be customized to suit various tastes. Whether you’re serving them for a family dinner, a game day gathering, or just because, these turnovers are bound to be a hit.
Experiment with different add-ins like
cheese, spice levels, or meat alternatives to make the recipe your own. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll have a batch of turnovers that are crispy on the outside, warm and comforting on the inside—an ideal comfort food that’s portable and perfect for any occasion. Enjoy your cooking adventure and get ready to impress your family and friends with these tasty sloppy joe turnovers!
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