If you love bold flavors and a comforting, saucy sandwich, this Buffalo Sloppy Joes with Vegetarian Option Recipe is an absolute must-try. It packs a punch with tangy, spicy buffalo sauce balanced by just the right touch of sweetness and savory depth. Whether you prefer the classic version with extra lean ground turkey or a hearty vegetarian alternative using Morning Star Chik’n Strips, this dish delivers satisfying texture and mouthwatering taste that will quickly become a family favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the right balance of fresh vegetables, flavorful sauces, and the perfect protein is what makes this dish shine. It’s surprisingly simple to assemble, and every ingredient plays a vital role in ensuring the final result bursts with taste, texture, and color.
- 2 lbs extra lean ground turkey: For a lean, tender protein base that absorbs the spicy sauce perfectly (use Morning Star Chik’n Strips as the vegetarian option).
- 2 celery ribs, chopped: Adds a crisp, fresh bite and subtle crunch to brighten the texture.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Brings sweetness and depth when sautéed.
- 1 medium carrot, grated: Provides natural sweetness and a pop of vibrant color.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses savory warmth and a fragrant kick.
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce: The rich, tangy base that ties the flavors together.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth for the veg option): Adds moistness and enhances the saucy consistency.
- 1/4 cup Louisiana-style hot sauce: The star ingredient delivering that signature buffalo heat (adjust the quantity as needed for milder tastes).
- 2 tbsp brown sugar: Balances out the spice with a hint of caramelized sweetness.
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar: Adds a zesty tang to brighten the entire dish.
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce: Brings depth and a savory umami note.
- 1/4 tsp pepper: Light seasoning for a subtle additional kick.
- 8 hamburger buns: Soft, pillowy vessels perfect for holding all that delicious filling.
- 1 cup crumbled blue cheese for topping: Optional but highly recommended for creamy, tangy contrast.
How to Make Buffalo Sloppy Joes with Vegetarian Option Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Fresh Ingredients
Start by chopping the onion, celery, and garlic into small, even pieces to ensure they cook evenly and release their full flavors. Grate the carrot finely so it blends seamlessly into the sauce, adding just the right touch of sweetness and color.
Step 2: Cook the Protein and Veggies
In a large pan over medium heat, combine your protein—either ground turkey or Morning Star Chik’n Strips—with the chopped onion, celery, garlic, and grated carrot. Cook, stirring often, until the turkey is no longer pink or the vegetarian strips are heated through and slightly browned. This stage builds the flavor foundation, so take your time to get a nice aroma going.
Step 3: Add the Sauces and Seasonings
Once your protein and vegetables are cooked, stir in the tomato sauce, broth (chicken or vegetable depending on your choice), hot sauce, brown sugar, red wine vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and pepper. Allow the mixture to simmer gently while stirring occasionally. This melding process lets the spicy, tangy, sweet, and savory elements come together for that irresistible buffalo sloppy joe taste.
Step 4: Assemble and Serve
Toast your hamburger buns if desired, then spoon generous helpings of the buffalo mixture onto each one. Finish each sandwich with a sprinkle of the crumbled blue cheese for that creamy, pungent finish, though this topping is completely optional based on your preferences.
How to Serve Buffalo Sloppy Joes with Vegetarian Option Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh, crunchy garnishes like shredded lettuce or thinly sliced red onion really complements the rich, spicy sloppy joe filling. A few celery sticks on the side echo the flavors inside and keep the meal feeling vibrant and fresh.
Side Dishes
This buffalo sloppy joe pairs perfectly with simple sides like crisp carrot sticks, a cooling cucumber salad, or even classic baked fries. These sides help balance the heat and richness of the sandwich, rounding out your meal beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to shake things up, use slider buns to create mini buffalo sloppy joe sliders for parties or game days. Alternatively, pile your sloppy joe mixture onto crunchy toasted bread or stuff it into bell peppers for a fun twist on presentation while keeping the flavor fantastic.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Buffalo Sloppy Joes with Vegetarian Option Recipe leftovers store wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making the next-day meal even better!
Freezing
If you want to prep ahead or save some for later, freeze the cooked buffalo mixture (without buns or cheese) in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for a no-fuss meal anytime.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stove over low-medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You can also microwave portions in short bursts, stirring in between to keep the texture just right. Toast fresh buns and add blue cheese after reheating for a fresh feel.
FAQs
Can I make the Buffalo Sloppy Joes less spicy?
Absolutely! Simply reduce the amount of hot sauce or choose a milder variety. You can also add a little extra brown sugar or a splash of cream to mellow out the heat if needed.
What vegetarian options work best in this recipe?
The Morning Star Chik’n Strips are my favorite because they have great texture and absorb the sauce well. Other options like firm tofu or textured vegetable protein can work if you adjust cooking times appropriately.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free hamburger buns and double-check that your Worcestershire sauce and hot sauce do not contain gluten ingredients. The main filling is naturally gluten-free.
Can I prepare the filling in advance?
Yes! Making the buffalo mixture a day ahead allows the flavors to develop beautifully. Just store it in the fridge and reheat before serving on fresh buns.
What can I serve with Buffalo Sloppy Joes for a balanced meal?
Pair these sandwiches with a crisp green salad, steamed vegetables, or roasted sweet potatoes for a meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing dish that’s packed with bold flavors and has a flexible vegetarian option, the Buffalo Sloppy Joes with Vegetarian Option Recipe is your new best friend. It’s cozy, spicy, and easy enough for weeknights but special enough to share. Give it a go—you might just find yourself making it over and over again!
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Buffalo Sloppy Joes with Vegetarian Option Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A flavorful and spicy take on the classic sloppy joe, featuring lean ground turkey simmered with tangy tomato sauce, hot sauce, and a mix of vegetables. This versatile recipe also offers a vegetarian option using Morning Star Chik’n Strips, making it suitable for different dietary preferences. Served on hamburger buns and topped with crumbly blue cheese, these Buffalo Sloppy Joes strike the perfect balance of heat and savory comfort.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 lbs extra lean ground turkey (vegetarian option: Morning Star Chik’n Strips)
- 2 celery ribs, chopped
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 medium carrot, grated
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (8oz) tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (vegetarian option: vegetable broth)
- 1/4 cup Louisiana-style hot sauce (reduce to 1/8 cup for milder flavor)
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 8 hamburger buns
- 1 cup crumbled blue cheese for topping
Instructions
- Prepare Vegetables: Chop the onion, celery, and garlic cloves finely. Grate the carrot to prepare all the vegetables needed for the sauce base.
- Cook Protein and Vegetables: In a large pan over medium heat, cook the ground turkey (or Morning Star Chik’n Strips for the vegetarian version) along with the chopped celery, onion, grated carrot, and minced garlic. Continue cooking until the turkey is no longer pink and the vegetables are soft, ensuring the mixture is well combined.
- Add Sauces and Seasonings: Stir in the tomato sauce, chicken or vegetable broth, Louisiana hot sauce, brown sugar, red wine vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly and heat the entire mixture through until it simmers and flavors meld, about 5-7 minutes.
- Serve: Spoon the spicy Buffalo sloppy joe mixture onto hamburger buns. Top each sandwich with crumbled blue cheese if desired. Serve immediately for a delicious spicy meal perfect for casual dining or entertaining.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of hot sauce to suit the spice tolerance of your guests, especially when serving children.
- For a vegetarian option, substitute ground turkey with Morning Star Chik’n Strips and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Extra blue cheese can be served on the side for those wanting a richer flavor.
- This recipe can easily be doubled to serve a larger crowd.
- Make sure to cook the turkey thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
