Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?

Yes, Greek yogurt makes a great substitute for sour cream in this recipe. It offers a similar creaminess with a bit more tang and fewer calories. Just make sure to use plain, full-fat Greek yogurt for the best texture and flavor, and add it off the heat to prevent curdling.

Why are potato chips added to Minnesota Sloppy Joes?

The potato chips aren't just a regional quirk—they add a fantastic textural contrast to the soft, saucy meat and bun. The slight saltiness also enhances the overall flavor profile. In Minnesota, this crunchy addition is considered essential to authentic sloppy joes!

Can I make this recipe ahead for a party?

Absolutely! The meat mixture can be made up to two days ahead and refrigerated. When ready to serve, reheat slowly on the stovetop or in a slow cooker on low. Keep the buns, chips, and pickles separate until serving time to maintain their texture. This make-ahead option is perfect for game days and casual gatherings.

How can I make this recipe healthier?

For a lighter version, substitute lean ground turkey or chicken for the beef, use light sour cream, and serve on whole grain buns. You can also increase the vegetable content by adding finely diced bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini to the meat mixture. Baked chips make a suitable alternative to traditional potato chips for the topping.

Minnesota Sloppy Joes Recipe

Name: Minnesota Sloppy Joes Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1/2 yellow onion, finely chopped; 1 cup ketchup; 1 teaspoon yellow mustard; 1/2 cup sour cream; Kosher salt, to taste; Freshly ground black pepper, to taste; Hamburger buns; Potato chips; Dill pickle slices

This Minnesota Sloppy Joe recipe takes the classic sandwich to new heights with a creamy twist that’ll make your taste buds sing. Ready in under 30 minutes, this hearty comfort food combines savory ground beef with a tangy-sweet sauce and a signature Midwestern addition—sour cream—creating a deliciously messy sandwich that’s perfect for busy weeknight dinners or casual gatherings with friends and family.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Satisfying: From start to finish in less than 30 minutes, this recipe delivers big flavor without keeping you in the kitchen all evening.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike go crazy for these slightly creamy, perfectly balanced sloppy joes—they’re less acidic than traditional versions, making them a hit with picky eaters.
Budget-Friendly: Simple, affordable ingredients that stretch to feed a crowd make this recipe a wallet-friendly option.
Uniquely Delicious: The addition of sour cream creates a richer, creamier texture that sets these sloppy joes apart from the standard version—trust me, you’ll never want to go back!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ground Beef: The star protein that creates the hearty base. Choose 80/20 for the best flavor, or substitute ground turkey for a lighter version.
Yellow Onion: Adds essential flavor and sweetness when cooked down. Make sure to chop it finely so it integrates well into the meat mixture.
Ketchup: Creates the tangy-sweet base of the sauce. The tomato flavor and natural sweetness are what make sloppy joes so craveable.
Yellow Mustard: Just a teaspoon brings a subtle tang that balances the sweetness of the ketchup perfectly.
Sour Cream: The secret Minnesota twist! It adds incredible creaminess and cuts the acidity of the tomato sauce, resulting in a smoother, richer flavor profile.
Salt and Pepper: Season to your preference—don’t be shy with the pepper, it adds wonderful depth.
Hamburger Buns: Choose soft buns that can stand up to the saucy meat mixture. Toasting them lightly adds fantastic texture.
Potato Chips: Not just a side, but a crucial topping! The crunch against the soft, saucy meat creates textural magic. Plain chips work great, but ridged ones hold up even better.
Dill Pickle Slices: The briny crunch cuts through the richness of the meat mixture, creating the perfect flavor balance.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

Want to customize your Minnesota Sloppy Joes? Here are some delicious options:

Cheesy Twist: Add a slice of American or cheddar cheese on top of the hot meat mixture and let it melt before adding your toppings.
Spicy Version: Stir in 1-2 tablespoons of your favorite hot sauce or a diced jalapeño with the onions for heat lovers.
Veggie Boost: Finely dice a bell pepper and some celery to sauté with the onions for extra nutrition and flavor.
Barbecue Style: Substitute half the ketchup with your favorite BBQ sauce for a smokier flavor profile.

How to Make Minnesota Sloppy Joes

Step 1: Brown the Meat and Onions

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef and finely chopped yellow onion. Season with a generous pinch of salt and several grinds of black pepper. Break the meat apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks, until it’s completely browned and the onions have softened, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.

Step 2: Add the Sauce Ingredients

Reduce the heat to medium and stir in the ketchup and yellow mustard until well combined. Let the mixture simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken. If the mixture gets too thick, add a splash of water, about 2-3 tablespoons at a time, to reach your desired consistency.

Step 3: Incorporate the Sour Cream

This is where the Minnesota magic happens! Lower the heat to medium-low (important so the sour cream doesn’t curdle), then stir in the sour cream until it’s fully incorporated. Let the mixture cook for just 1-2 minutes more—you want the sour cream warm but not boiling. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Step 4: Assemble and Serve

Spoon the hot sloppy joe mixture generously onto the bottom halves of hamburger buns. Top with potato chips for that essential crunch, and add dill pickle slices. Crown with the top bun and serve immediately while still hot and delicious.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Toast Your Buns: For an extra layer of flavor and to prevent sogginess, lightly butter and toast your hamburger buns before adding the meat mixture.
Simmer Strategy: Don’t rush the simmering time—those 10-15 minutes allow the flavors to develop and the sauce to thicken properly.
Temperature Control: Always reduce heat before adding sour cream to prevent curdling. The mixture should be hot but not bubbling when you stir it in.
Meat Matters: Don’t break the ground beef into pieces that are too small—some texture makes for a better sandwich experience.
Chip Placement: Place the potato chips directly on the meat mixture so they slightly soften from the heat, creating the perfect texture contrast.

How to Serve

Minnesota Sloppy Joes are a meal in themselves, but here are some perfect pairings:

Classic Sides:

Serve with a side of coleslaw, macaroni salad, or a simple green salad with ranch dressing for a complete meal.

Potato Options:

French fries, tater tots, or a baked potato make excellent accompaniments to these sloppy joes.

Drink Pairings:

Cold milk for the kids, and a light beer or lemonade for the adults complements these sandwiches perfectly.

For a fun presentation, serve the meat mixture in a bowl with buns on the side and let everyone build their own sandwiches with their preferred amount of chips and pickles.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

The meat mixture keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. In fact, many find the flavor improves after a day as the ingredients have time to meld.

Freezing

This recipe freezes exceptionally well! Cool the meat mixture completely, then store in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 3 months. Be sure to label with the date.

Reheating

Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen. Reheat in a saucepan over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce. Stir occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until hot.

FAQs

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?

Yes, Greek yogurt makes a great substitute for sour cream in this recipe. It offers a similar creaminess with a bit more tang and fewer calories. Just make sure to use plain, full-fat Greek yogurt for the best texture and flavor, and add it off the heat to prevent curdling.
Why are potato chips added to Minnesota Sloppy Joes?

The potato chips aren’t just a regional quirk—they add a fantastic textural contrast to the soft, saucy meat and bun. The slight saltiness also enhances the overall flavor profile. In Minnesota, this crunchy addition is considered essential to authentic sloppy joes!
Can I make this recipe ahead for a party?

Absolutely! The meat mixture can be made up to two days ahead and refrigerated. When ready to serve, reheat slowly on the stovetop or in a slow cooker on low. Keep the buns, chips, and pickles separate until serving time to maintain their texture. This make-ahead option is perfect for game days and casual gatherings.
How can I make this recipe healthier?

For a lighter version, substitute lean ground turkey or chicken for the beef, use light sour cream, and serve on whole grain buns. You can also increase the vegetable content by adding finely diced bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini to the meat mixture. Baked chips make a suitable alternative to traditional potato chips for the topping.

Final Thoughts

These Minnesota Sloppy Joes bring a delicious twist to a classic comfort food that I’m convinced will become a regular in your dinner rotation. The creamy, tangy sauce combined with the crunch of potato chips and the zip of dill pickles creates a sandwich experience that’s familiar yet refreshingly different. Don’t be surprised when your family starts requesting “those amazing sloppy joes” on a weekly basis!