Ground Turkey Sloppy Joe Skillet

Name: Ground Turkey Sloppy Joe Skillet
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground turkey; 1 onion, diced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup tomato sauce; 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 1 tbsp brown sugar; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 hamburger buns, toasted

Highlighted under: Rustic Inspiration

I love making this Ground Turkey Sloppy Joe Skillet because it combines flavor, ease, and comfort in one dish. The savory ground turkey, sweet onions, and zesty tomato sauce create a deliciously messy meal that's perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, it comes together in just one skillet, which means less cleanup and more time enjoying dinner with family. This dish is a twist on the classic Sloppy Joe, making it a healthier option that still hits the spot.

Created by

Nell Abernathy

Last updated on 2026-02-24T02:37:36.008Z

When I first experimented with this Ground Turkey Sloppy Joe Skillet, I wanted to create a dish that was both satisfying and quick to prepare. I found that using ground turkey reduces the fat without sacrificing flavor. By pairing it with bold ingredients like Worcestershire sauce and a touch of brown sugar, the result is a mellow yet lively dish that beckons comfort and nostalgia.

What I love most is how versatile this recipe is. I’ve adjusted the spices to bring in more heat when I’m in the mood for a kick or added bell peppers for extra crunch. It’s a fantastic canvas for whatever flavors you want to highlight, and my family always requests it!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Satisfying and hearty with a flavorful twist
Quick clean-up with just one skillet required
Adaptable to suit your taste preferences

Perfecting the Skillet Technique

The beauty of this Ground Turkey Sloppy Joe Skillet lies in its technique. Cooking the turkey in a large skillet over medium heat not only helps it brown evenly but also allows the fat to render, adding flavor to the dish. Be sure to break up the turkey into smaller pieces as it cooks, which promotes even cooking and prevents any clumps. Look for a light brown coloration before adding the vegetables, as this signals that the meat has developed a rich flavor base.

When you add the diced onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic, it’s essential to stir them in well. Cooking these ingredients together releases their natural sweetness and balances with the savory turkey. I recommend keeping an eye on the vegetables to prevent them from browning too much; softening them without burning ensures that their flavors meld perfectly with the meat. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onions are translucent and glossy.

Balancing Flavors

Creating the right flavor balance in your Sloppy Joe mixture is key to achieving that mouthwatering experience. The combination of Worcestershire sauce and brown sugar plays an important role; the Worcestershire adds a rich umami depth, while the brown sugar introduces a hint of sweetness. When you stir these ingredients with the tomato sauce, be sure to taste as you go. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper based on your personal preference – this is your chance to make it truly yours.

If you prefer your Sloppy Joe with a bit more kick, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or some diced jalapeños to the mixture as it simmers. The simmering phase allows the flavors to concentrate and develop – be patient, as it can elevate this dish significantly. Aim for a consistency that’s not too runny; you want it to spoon evenly onto the buns without making a mess everywhere.

Ingredients

For the Skillet

1 lb ground turkey
1 onion, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup tomato sauce
2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tbsp brown sugar
Salt and pepper to taste
4 hamburger buns, toasted

Serve with a side of your favorite chips or a simple salad.

Instructions

Cook the Turkey

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground turkey. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Break it up as it cooks.

Add Veggies

Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet. Cook until the veggies soften, about 3-4 minutes.

Combine Sauces

Stir in the tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, salt, and pepper. Reduce heat and simmer for about 10 minutes.

Serve

Spoon the mixture onto the toasted hamburger buns and enjoy your delicious Sloppy Joe Skillet!

Feel free to top with shredded cheese or pickles for extra flavor!

Pro Tips

To elevate the dish, consider adding smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness or a splash of hot sauce for some heat.

Serving Suggestions

For a complete meal, consider pairing your Ground Turkey Sloppy Joe Skillet with a side of crispy sweet potato fries or a simple green salad. The sweetness of the potatoes complements the savory filling beautifully while adding a nutritious component to your meal. Alternatively, opt for a tangy coleslaw to balance the richness of the dish.

You can also have some fun with the presentation by using different types of buns. Try whole grain, brioche, or even a lettuce wrap for a low-carb option. If you want to elevate the presentation, consider toasting the buns with a brush of garlic butter until golden and crisp. This adds an incredible flavor and texture contrast to the sloppy filling.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Ground Turkey Sloppy Joe mixture is perfect for meal prepping. You can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to four days. Just keep the mixture separate from the buns until you’re ready to serve to maintain their freshness. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water if it has thickened too much during storage.

If you want to freeze leftovers, place the cooled mixture in an airtight container for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. When ready to enjoy, simply heat it in a skillet or the microwave until warmed through. Freezing doesn’t sacrifice the flavors, so you can relish the comfort of Sloppy Joes anytime!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use ground beef instead of turkey?

Yes, ground beef works perfectly for this recipe; just be mindful of the fat content.

→ How long will leftovers last in the fridge?

Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container.

→ Can I freeze the Sloppy Joe mixture?

Absolutely! Freeze the mixture in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

→ What can I use instead of hamburger buns?

Try serving the mixture over rice, in lettuce wraps, or with tortilla chips for a fun twist!