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Delicious skillet sloppy joes served on a plate with toppings.

Sloppy Joe Skillet Dinner

A delightful twist on the classic comfort food, combining savory ground beef and crispy air-fried potatoes, perfect for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine American, Comfort Food
Servings 4 servings
Calories 575 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Potatoes

  • 5 small to medium small to medium potatoes These are the stars of the dish, bringing a tender yet crispy texture.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil Adds a lovely fruity flavor while aiding in the crisping of the potatoes.
  • to taste Salt Essential for enhancing all the flavors.
  • to taste Black pepper Provides a subtle kick.
  • to taste Garlic powder Enriches the dish with its aromatic essence.
  • to taste Paprika Infuses a smoky depth.

For the Beef Mixture

  • 1 pound ground beef The heart of your Sloppy Joe, juicy and flavorful.
  • 1 onion, chopped Adds sweetness that caramelizes beautifully.
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt To season the beef.
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper Adds complexity.
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder Intensifies the onion flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon paprika Further enhances the flavor profile.
  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic Fresh, pungent, and aromatic.
  • 1 to 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce Provides a depth of flavor.
  • 8 oz can tomato sauce Brings all the elements together.
  • 1/4 cup ketchup Adds sweetness and tang.
  • 1 tablespoon mustard For an extra zing.
  • 2 tablespoons BBQ sauce Infuses smoky sweetness that’s irresistible.
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese The creamy topping that ties everything together.

Instructions
 

Preparation of Potatoes

  • Begin by peeling and washing the potatoes. Cut them into bite-sized cubes to ensure they cook evenly.
  • Toss the potato cubes with olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika until evenly coated.
  • Transfer them to your air fryer and set it to 400°F, cooking for approximately 20 minutes, shaking the basket occasionally.

Cooking the Beef and Onion

  • In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add ground beef and chopped onion. Break the beef into smaller pieces while cooking for 5–7 minutes until browned.

Seasoning the Beef

  • Season the browned beef with salt, black pepper, onion powder, and paprika.
  • Stir in minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and tomato sauce. Mix well to create a rich base.

Adding Sauces

  • Add ketchup, mustard, and BBQ sauce. Stir and let it simmer on low heat for about 5 to 10 minutes.

Combining Potatoes with Beef

  • Once the crispy potatoes are ready, mix them into the skillet with the beef mixture.
  • Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top and broil until bubbly and golden.

Serving

  • Serve hot, optionally with a fresh side salad for added nutrition.

Notes

For added flavor, consider adding chopped bell peppers while cooking the beef. For a spicy kick, add cayenne pepper or hot sauce. Leftover roasted vegetables can also enhance the dish.
Keyword Comfort Food, Easy Recipe, Ground Beef, Skillet Dinner, Sloppy Joe