Quick Description:
These High-Protein Sloppy Joes are sweet, smoky, and seriously satisfying — but made smarter with lean beef, high-fiber beans, and a lighter homemade sauce. Serve them over low-point buns, in lettuce cups, or over cauliflower rice for a filling, WW-friendly weeknight dinner you’ll actually crave.
🕒 Servings and Timing:
- Prep Time: 5–7 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: ~20–25 minutes
- Servings: 4
- WW Points per Serving: 4–6 points (excluding bun; depends on meat and sauce)
📝 Ingredients List:
- 1 lb extra-lean ground beef (96% lean) – 4 points
- 1/2 cup canned black beans or kidney beans (rinsed, drained) – 1 point
- 1/2 cup diced onion – 0 points
- 1/4 cup diced green bell pepper – 0 points
- 1/2 cup sugar-free ketchup – 1 point
- 1 tbsp tomato paste – 0 points
- 1 tbsp yellow mustard – 0 points
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce – 0 points
- 1 tsp smoked paprika – 0 points
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder – 0 points
- Salt & black pepper to taste
- Optional: dash of hot sauce or chili flakes
Serve With:
- Low-point whole wheat bun, lettuce wraps, or cauliflower rice
👩🍳 Instructions:
1. Sauté Veggies: In a nonstick skillet, sauté onion and bell pepper over medium heat until softened (2–3 minutes).
2. Brown the Beef: Add ground beef to the pan. Cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain if needed.
3. Add the Sauce: Stir in ketchup, tomato paste, mustard, Worcestershire, spices, and beans. Mix well.
4. Simmer: Let simmer for 5–7 minutes until thickened and saucy.
5. Build Your Joes: Spoon onto buns or low-carb alternatives and serve hot!
🔄 Additional Notes:
Tip: Want even more volume without more points? Add shredded zucchini or riced cauliflower into the meat mix — it blends in perfectly.
🌿 Dietary Info:
- High-Protein
- WW Friendly
- Gluten-Free (if served with GF buns or wrap)
- Dairy-Free
✨ Brief Introduction:
I grew up eating classic Sloppy Joes… and honestly, I missed them! This version brings all the nostalgia without the sugar-packed sauce or heavy bread. It’s filling, flavorful, and loaded with clean protein and fiber that keeps you full and energized.
🧭 Pro Tips for Sloppy Success:
- Smoked paprika = flavor bomb – don’t skip it
- Simmer until thick — you want it saucy, not soupy
- Beans stretch the meat and boost fiber without losing the texture
- Toast your bun — major texture upgrade!
🔁 Swaps & Serving Ideas:
- Meat Swap: Ground turkey or chicken
- Bean Options: Pinto, navy, or lentils
- Low-Carb Serving: Lettuce cups or cauliflower mash
- Extra Flavor: Add sautéed mushrooms or jalapeños to the mix
🌀 Storage & Meal Prep Tips:
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container up to 4 days
- Freezer: Freeze in portioned bags or containers for up to 2 months
- Reheat: Microwave or rewarm in skillet with splash of broth or water
❓FAQ Quick Bites:
Q: Can I make this spicy?
A: Heck yes! Add cayenne, jalapeños, or hot sauce.
Q: Can I double the beans and reduce the meat?
A: Yep — just adjust your protein needs and point count.
Q: Best bun options for WW?
A: Low-cal whole wheat sandwich thins, 647 bread, or Joseph’s pita!
💬 Optional Personal Note:
I made this on a whim one night when I was craving something “messy and comforting” — and wow, it delivered. My husband didn’t even notice it was a light version… and now it’s a weeknight staple. Super satisfying, no side of guilt.
📣 Call-to-Action:
Tried these Beef & Bean Sloppy Joes? Tag me in your saucy creations 🍔💪 and tell me: are you team bun, bowl, or lettuce wrap? Drop your remix in the comments 👇
