Looking for a quick and delicious meal that packs a punch of flavor? This Chorizo Sloppy Joes recipe takes the traditional Sloppy Joe and gives it a bold, spicy twist with Mexican chorizo. In just 15 minutes, you can have a satisfying, mouthwatering sandwich that’s perfect for busy weeknights, game-day gatherings, or a fun family dinner.
The combination of savory chorizo, tangy tomato sauce, and smoky spices makes this dish an instant hit. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make with simple pantry ingredients.
Let’s dive into this quick and flavorful Sloppy Joe recipe that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Why You’ll Love This Chorizo Sloppy Joes Recipe
✔ Quick & Easy – Ready in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
✔ Flavor-Packed – The chorizo adds a smoky, spicy depth of flavor you won’t get with regular ground beef.
✔ Minimal Ingredients – Uses simple pantry staples for a budget-friendly meal.
✔ Customizable – Adjust the spice level, add toppings, or serve it in different ways.
✔ Great for Meal Prep – Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
Ingredients for Chorizo Sloppy Joes
To make this easy Chorizo Sloppy Joes recipe, you’ll need the following:
For the Sloppy Joe Filling:
- 1 lb Mexican chorizo (raw, uncooked)
- ½ lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 small red bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional for extra heat)
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- Salt & black pepper to taste
- ½ teaspoon brown sugar (balances the acidity of the tomato sauce)
For Serving:
- 4 brioche or hamburger buns, toasted
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- Sliced jalapeños (for extra spice)
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
How to Make Chorizo Sloppy Joes in 15 Minutes
Step 1: Cook the Chorizo and Ground Beef
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chorizo and ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula.
- Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fully browned.
- Drain any excess grease if needed.
Step 2: Add the Aromatics
- Add the chopped onion, red bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet.
- Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onions turn soft and translucent.
Step 3: Simmer the Sauce
- Stir in the tomato sauce, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, and brown sugar.
- Reduce heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend together.
Step 4: Assemble the Sandwiches
- Toast the brioche or hamburger buns to prevent sogginess.
- Spoon the chorizo Sloppy Joe mixture onto each bun.
- Top with shredded cheddar cheese, jalapeño slices, and fresh cilantro for an extra flavor boost.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!
Serve hot with your favorite side dishes like crispy fries, coleslaw, or a fresh salad.
Best Side Dishes to Serve with Chorizo Sloppy Joes
These spicy, smoky Sloppy Joes pair well with a variety of sides:
🍟 Sweet Potato Fries – The sweetness balances the spiciness of the chorizo.
🥗 Mexican Street Corn Salad – Adds a creamy, tangy contrast to the sandwich.
🥑 Guacamole & Chips – A cool and refreshing side to complement the heat.
🥒 Pickled Onions – A tangy topping that enhances the flavors.
🥤 Horchata or Lime Agua Fresca – A refreshing drink to cool down the spice.
Tips for the Best Chorizo Sloppy Joes
✔ Use Mexican Chorizo – Unlike Spanish chorizo, which is cured, Mexican chorizo is raw and needs to be cooked.
✔ Drain Excess Grease – Chorizo can be fatty, so drain any excess grease before adding the sauce.
✔ Toast the Buns – This keeps the sandwich from getting soggy and adds a nice crunch.
✔ Adjust the Spice Level – Add more chili powder or jalapeños for extra heat, or reduce for a milder version.
✔ Make It Cheesy – Add a slice of pepper jack or cheddar cheese for a creamy, melty finish.
Variations & Customizations
Want to switch things up? Here are a few ways to customize this Sloppy Joe recipe:
🌮 Make it Taco-Style – Serve the filling in warm corn tortillas instead of buns.
🥑 Add Avocado – A few slices of avocado add creaminess and balance the spice.
🍳 Top with a Fried Egg – Take it up a notch by adding a runny fried egg on top.
🌽 Mix in Corn or Black Beans – Adds extra texture and flavor to the filling.
🍞 Serve Open-Faced – Skip the top bun and eat it with a fork for a lower-carb option.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! The filling can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Simply reheat it on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
2. Can I use pre-cooked Spanish chorizo instead?
No, Mexican chorizo is best for this recipe because it’s raw and breaks down into a flavorful, saucy mixture. Spanish chorizo is cured and firm, which won’t create the same texture.
3. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover Sloppy Joe mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed.
4. Can I freeze the Sloppy Joe filling?
Absolutely! Let the mixture cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
5. What type of buns work best?
Soft brioche buns or potato rolls are the best options because they hold up well to the saucy filling while adding a slight sweetness.
Final Thoughts
This Chorizo Sloppy Joes recipe is the perfect way to add a spicy, smoky twist to the classic Sloppy Joe. With bold flavors, a quick cooking time, and simple ingredients, it’s a fantastic go-to meal for busy nights.
Give this 15-minute Sloppy Joe recipe a try, and let us know how it turned out in the comments below! Happy cooking! 🌮🔥
