Birthday Party Food - Ground Beef Sloppy-Joe Sandwiches

Ground Beef Sloppy-Joe Sandwiches

When searching for a birthday party snack that will please everyone, look no further! These sloppy joes are mild enough for kids to enjoy without being bland. You can serve them on hamburger buns, or on hot-dog buns for less mess. For an even healthier option, substitute ground turkey for the beef. You can make this days in advance, or fresh the day of the party.

You will need:

1/2 cup of ketchup

2 teaspoons of brown sugar

1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce

1 pound of lean ground beef

1/2 teaspoon f dry mustard powder

1/4 teaspoon of garlic power (or one fresh clove, minced)

1 small red onion, minced fine

1 small green pepper, chopped fine

Brown the ground meat in a pan and drain away all of the fat. You want the meat to be mostly dry, or else the sloppy joes will be runny and unappetizing. Return the meat to the pan and then stir in the rest of the ingredients, beginning with the liquids, until well-blended. Allow to simmer on a low flame for about half an hour. Don't be afraid to add in some water if it grows too thick for your taste.

If you don't plan on having a sit-down snack, you can then transfer the sloppy joe mix into a crock pot set on low and let it simmer throughout the festivities for snacking any time. Be sure to provide plenty of buns, paper plates, and napkins. Sliced American or provolone cheese is also an outstanding addition to the sandwiches. This recipe is also delicious on corn chips, or as the basis for a plate of nachos.

Be sure to make far more than you think you will need. This recipe can be easily doubled or trebled without changes to the ingredients. You can freeze any left-over portions for a quick heat and serve dinner, or for when company drop by unexpectedly. Just be sure to use air-tight containers to avoid freezer burn, and this hearty, easy snack will keep in the freezer for up to six months with no changes in flavor or texture. Bon apetit!