Description
BBQ Mushroom Sloppy Joes
Ingredients
1 lb mushrooms (portobello or cremini), diced
1 small onion, diced
1 small green bell pepper, diced
1 small red bell pepper, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 tbsp olive oil
1/2 cup barbecue sauce
1/4 cup ketchup
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (or soy sauce for a vegetarian option)
1 tbsp brown sugar (optional, for sweetness)
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and black pepper to taste
4 hamburger buns
Optional Toppings:
Pickles
Coleslaw
Shredded cheese
Directions
Cook the vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced mushrooms, onion, and bell peppers. Sauté for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms release their moisture and the vegetables are softened.
Add garlic and seasonings: Stir in minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Make the sauce: Add barbecue sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and brown sugar (if using) to the skillet. Stir well to combine. Simmer for 5 minutes until the mixture thickens.
Assemble the sandwiches: Toast the hamburger buns if desired. Spoon the mushroom mixture onto the bottom halves of the buns. Add optional toppings and cover with the top bun.
Serve: Enjoy warm with chips, a side salad, or your favorite BBQ sides!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 280 kcal per sandwich
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect results every time. First, ensure all vegetables are uniformly diced to ensure even cooking. Heat the olive oil in your skillet until it shimmers before adding the mushrooms, onion, and peppers. The key step is to cook until the mushrooms have fully released their liquid and it has mostly evaporated, which concentrates flavor and prevents a watery filling. When adding the garlic and smoked paprika, stir constantly for just a minute to avoid burning. For the sauce, let the mixture simmer actively for the full 5 minutes; it should coat the back of a spoon thickly. Finally, lightly toasting the buns is recommended to prevent them from becoming soggy under the hearty filling.
Serving Suggestions
These sloppy joes are incredibly versatile. For a classic cookout feel, serve them with crispy potato chips, baked beans, and a tangy vinegar-based coleslaw. To lighten the meal, pair with a simple arugula salad or grilled corn on the cob. For a fun twist, serve the mushroom mixture over a baked potato or sweet potato instead of a bun. The leftovers also make an excellent filling for quesadillas or a topping for nachos.
How-to Summary
In summary, this 25-minute meal involves sautéing diced mushrooms, onions, and peppers until tender. Garlic and smoked paprika are added for depth, followed by a simple BBQ-ketchup sauce. The mixture is simmered until thick, then piled onto toasted buns with your choice of crunchy or creamy toppings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes. Use tamari instead of Worcestershire or soy sauce, and ensure your barbecue sauce is certified gluten-free. Serve on your favorite gluten-free buns or lettuce wraps.
How can I store and reheat leftovers?
Store the cooled mushroom filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if needed.
What’s the best way to get a meaty texture from the mushrooms?
Do not overcrowd the skillet. Let the mushrooms sauté without stirring for the first few minutes to allow them to brown and develop a chewier, more substantial texture.
Can I use a different type of mushroom?
Absolutely. While cremini or portobello are ideal for their robust flavor, white button mushrooms will work. For a more luxurious version, try a mix with some chopped shiitake mushrooms.
Is there a way to make this recipe less sweet?
Omit the brown sugar and choose a barbecue sauce labeled “less sugar” or “smoky” rather than “honey” or “sweet.” You can also increase the Worcestershire sauce and smoked paprika to balance the flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not Cooking Out the Mushroom Liquid: Rushing this step leads to a watery, loose filling. Be patient and cook until the mixture looks dry in the pan.
- Burning the Garlic: Adding garlic with the raw vegetables or cooking it too long will make it bitter. Add it only after the veggies are soft.
- Using Cold Buns: A soft, untoasted bun will quickly disintegrate. Always toast or lightly grill your buns for structure and flavor.
- Overcrowding the Pan: If your skillet is too small, the vegetables will steam instead of sauté. Use a large, wide skillet for best results.
Conclusion
These BBQ Mushroom Sloppy Joes are a triumphant and flavorful twist on a classic comfort food. They prove that a satisfying, hearty meal can come together quickly with simple, wholesome ingredients. Whether you’re serving a vegetarian crowd or just looking to incorporate more vegetables into your week, this recipe is guaranteed to become a regular in your dinner rotation. The smoky, tangy, and savory filling is endlessly adaptable, so don’t hesitate to make it your own.