Sloppy Josephines (OK They're Sloppy Joes)

These are too good to be called plain old Sloppy Joes - I want to call them Sloppy Josephines. The root beer gives them such an interesting flavor - yeah I know sounds disgusting - but it's not. It is a little on the sweet side but the root beer really gives them a depth of flavor. I don't think the great flavor was because I used my homemade ketchup either. They recommend using chili sauce and I think it might be good with that also.

Hat off

Sloppy Josephines (Adapted from Cooking Light)

1T olive oil
1 c finely chopped onion
1 lb ground beef (I used 85% lean)
1/2 c homemade ketchup or tomato sauce
1/2 c root beer
1 T Worcestershire sauce (obvs homemade-which I know I still haven't posted the recipe - I will, I will)
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 t dry mustard
1 t ancho (or to taste)
1T tomato paste
salt/pepper
4-6 buns (depending on size and how much you want Josephine to ooze out)

In a large skillet add oil, onions, and salt. Saute about 10-15 minutes until onions start to caramelize. Add beef; stirring to crumble. Cook until the beef begins to brown. Add remaining ingredients. Cook for about 5 minutes or until thickened.  If you do not think it is thick or red enough, add some additional tomato paste. Toast buns and top with beef mixture.

Hat on

I used Brioche buns. I think a nice potato bun would work well. I haven't eaten Sloppy Joes since I was a kid (I know it's like nostalgia week or something?? I just need to cook my Mom's beef stew and we'll call it a week). I have to say these really do cook up quickly. I also haven't had ground beef in ages. I generally use ground turkey, which is good but don't go there with these. Beef is really the only option. Hey I balanced it out with a nice healthy salad.