Savory Turkey Bacon Sloppy Joes with Hidden Vegetables
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 12 oz package turkey bacon, chopped
- 10 oz can tomato soup
- 1/3 cup BBQ sauce
- 1/2 yellow onion, roughly chopped
- 1/2 zucchini, roughly chopped
- 1/2 green pepper, roughly chopped
- 2 stalks celery, roughly chopped
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- Hamburger buns, for serving
Directions:
- In a food processor, combine chopped onion, zucchini, green pepper, and celery. Pulse until finely chopped and nearly smooth.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and heat until shimmering.
- Add chopped turkey bacon to the skillet. Cook until crispy, stirring occasionally. Remove the cooked bacon and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
- In the same skillet, add the pureed vegetables. Cook over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until most of the liquid has evaporated.
- Add the ground turkey to the skillet with the vegetables. Season with salt, black pepper, and paprika. Break up the turkey with a wooden spoon and cook until the turkey is browned and cooked through, about 8 minutes.
- Stir in the BBQ sauce and tomato soup. Mix well to combine all ingredients. Bring to a simmer and cook for an additional 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is heated through and slightly thickened.
- Remove from heat and let stand for a minute to cool slightly.
- To serve, spoon a generous portion of the turkey bacon mixture onto the bottom half of each hamburger bun. Top with the other half of the bun.
- Enjoy your Savory Turkey Bacon Sloppy Joes with Hidden Vegetables!
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 310 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 1100mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 28g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 12g
- Protein: 22g
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Here are some tips to make your Turkey Bacon Sloppy Joes even more delightful:
- Use Quality Turkey Bacon: Opt for thick-cut turkey bacon for a more substantial texture and better flavor. Cook until crispy to add a satisfying crunch to your Sloppy Joes.
- Mix of Ground Turkey and Bacon: Consider mixing finely chopped turkey bacon into your ground turkey mixture before cooking. This enhances the bacon flavor throughout the dish.
- Seasoning: Don’t skimp on seasoning. Use a balanced mix of spices such as garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and a touch of brown sugar to add depth and sweetness to the sauce.
- Vegetable Additions: Add finely diced vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or carrots to the mix. Sauté them with the turkey bacon and ground turkey for added flavor and texture.
- Choice of Sauce: Experiment with different barbecue sauces or a mix of barbecue and tomato sauces to find the perfect balance of sweet, smoky, and tangy flavors.
- Cheese Topping: Before serving, melt a slice of cheddar or Swiss cheese on top of the Sloppy Joe mixture. This adds richness and enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Toast the Buns: Lightly toast the burger buns before assembling the Sloppy Joes. This prevents them from getting too soggy and adds a nice crunch.
- Garnish: Top each Sloppy Joe with fresh toppings like sliced avocado, pickles, or a dollop of sour cream to add freshness and creaminess.
- Let it Rest: Allow the Sloppy Joe mixture to simmer for a bit after combining all the ingredients. This helps the flavors meld together for a more cohesive taste.
- Serve with a Side: Pair your Turkey Bacon Sloppy Joes with a side of sweet potato fries, coleslaw, or a simple green salad to round out the meal.
Enjoy your delightful Turkey Bacon Sloppy Joes!
Here are 20 secrets to achieving the perfect Turkey Bacon Sloppy Joes:
- Choose the Right Turkey Bacon: Opt for thick-cut turkey bacon for better texture and flavor.
- Balance of Meats: Combine ground turkey and turkey bacon for a balanced flavor profile.
- Proper Seasoning: Use a blend of garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and a touch of brown sugar for depth of flavor.
- Vegetable Enhancement: Add finely diced onions, bell peppers, or carrots to enhance flavor and texture.
- Quality Sauce: Experiment with different barbecue sauces or a mix of barbecue and tomato sauces for the ideal taste.
- Simmering Time: Allow the mixture to simmer to let flavors meld together.
- Toasted Buns: Lightly toast the burger buns to prevent them from getting too soggy.
- Cheese Topping: Melt cheddar or Swiss cheese on top of the Sloppy Joe mixture for added richness.
- Garnishes: Top with fresh toppings like sliced avocado, pickles, or a dollop of sour cream for extra flavor.
- Acidic Balance: Add a splash of vinegar (such as apple cider vinegar) for a hint of acidity to balance the sweetness.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick, if desired.
- Fresh Herbs: Stir in fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro right before serving for a burst of freshness.
- Cooking Method: Brown the meat and bacon well to develop deep, caramelized flavors.
- Texture Control: Adjust the thickness of the Sloppy Joe mixture with a bit of tomato paste or broth for the desired consistency.
- Let it Rest: Allow the Sloppy Joe mixture to rest for a few minutes after cooking to let flavors settle.
- Season Throughout: Taste and adjust seasoning throughout the cooking process to ensure balanced flavors.
- Sweet Element: Enhance the sweetness with a touch of molasses or a drizzle of honey, if desired.
- Umami Boost: Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce for an extra umami depth.
- Slow Cooker Option: Consider cooking the Sloppy Joes in a slow cooker for a more developed flavor over time.
- Pairing: Serve with complementary sides like sweet potato fries, coleslaw, or a green salad to complete the meal.
By following these tips, you can create delicious and perfectly balanced Turkey Bacon Sloppy Joes that everyone will love!
Sure, here’s an extensive list of 40 popular questions and answers related to Turkey Bacon Sloppy Joes:
- What are Turkey Bacon Sloppy Joes?
- Turkey Bacon Sloppy Joes are a variation of the classic Sloppy Joes, using ground turkey and turkey bacon instead of ground beef.
- How do you make Turkey Bacon Sloppy Joes?
- To make Turkey Bacon Sloppy Joes, brown ground turkey and turkey bacon, then add onions, garlic, and a sauce made with ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and spices. Simmer until thickened and serve on toasted buns.
- Can I use regular bacon instead of turkey bacon?
- Yes, you can use regular bacon instead of turkey bacon in Turkey Bacon Sloppy Joes for a different flavor profile.
- What kind of buns are best for Turkey Bacon Sloppy Joes?
- Soft hamburger buns or brioche buns work well for Turkey Bacon Sloppy Joes. Toast them lightly to prevent sogginess.
- What are some good toppings for Turkey Bacon Sloppy Joes?
- Popular toppings include sliced cheese (cheddar or Swiss), pickles, sliced avocado, or a dollop of sour cream.
- Can I make Turkey Bacon Sloppy Joes ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare the Turkey Bacon Sloppy Joe mixture ahead and reheat it when ready to serve. It often tastes even better the next day as flavors meld.
- How do you store leftover Turkey Bacon Sloppy Joes?
- Store leftover Turkey Bacon Sloppy Joes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Can I freeze Turkey Bacon Sloppy Joes?
- Yes, you can freeze Turkey Bacon Sloppy Joes. Cool the mixture, then store in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- What are some side dishes that go well with Turkey Bacon Sloppy Joes?
- Side dishes such as sweet potato fries, coleslaw, potato salad, or a simple green salad complement Turkey Bacon Sloppy Joes.
- How can I make Turkey Bacon Sloppy Joes healthier?
- Use lean ground turkey, reduce the amount of sauce, opt for a lower-sodium sauce, and load up on vegetables like bell peppers and onions.
- Are Turkey Bacon Sloppy Joes gluten-free?
- Turkey Bacon Sloppy Joes can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free hamburger buns and ensuring all ingredients, including sauces and seasonings, are gluten-free.
- Can I add beans to Turkey Bacon Sloppy Joes?
- Yes, you can add beans such as kidney beans or black beans to Turkey Bacon Sloppy Joes for added texture and protein.
- What’s a good substitute for ketchup in Turkey Bacon Sloppy Joes?
- Tomato sauce or tomato paste mixed with a bit of vinegar and sugar can substitute for ketchup in Turkey Bacon Sloppy Joes.
- How do you prevent Turkey Bacon Sloppy Joes from being too watery?
- Ensure the mixture simmers uncovered to allow excess liquid to evaporate, or add a small amount of tomato paste to thicken the sauce.
- Are Turkey Bacon Sloppy Joes spicy?
- The spiciness of Turkey Bacon Sloppy Joes depends on the spices and sauces used. You can adjust the heat level by adding more or less hot sauce or cayenne pepper.
- Can I make Turkey Bacon Sloppy Joes in a slow cooker?
- Yes, you can cook Turkey Bacon Sloppy Joes in a slow cooker. Brown the meat and bacon first, then transfer to the slow cooker with the sauce and cook on low for 4-6 hours.
- What drinks pair well with Turkey Bacon Sloppy Joes?
- Drinks like cola, iced tea, beer, or lemonade complement the savory and slightly sweet flavors of Turkey Bacon Sloppy Joes.
- How do you reheat Turkey Bacon Sloppy Joes?
- Reheat Turkey Bacon Sloppy Joes gently in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out.
- Can I use ground chicken instead of ground turkey in Turkey Bacon Sloppy Joes?
- Yes, ground chicken can be substituted for ground turkey in Turkey Bacon Sloppy Joes with similar results.
- What herbs can I add to Turkey Bacon Sloppy Joes?
- Fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or basil can be added to Turkey Bacon Sloppy Joes for added freshness and flavor.
- Are Turkey Bacon Sloppy Joes dairy-free?
- Turkey Bacon Sloppy Joes can be made dairy-free by omitting cheese or using dairy-free cheese alternatives.
- Can I make Turkey Bacon Sloppy Joes in advance for a party?
- Yes, Turkey Bacon Sloppy Joes are great for parties. Prepare the mixture ahead and reheat it before serving.
- How do I know when Turkey Bacon Sloppy Joes are done cooking?
- The meat should be browned and cooked through, and the sauce should be thickened and flavorful.
- Can I add mushrooms to Turkey Bacon Sloppy Joes?
- Yes, sliced mushrooms can be added to Turkey Bacon Sloppy Joes for added umami flavor and texture.
- How do you prevent Turkey Bacon Sloppy Joes from being too sweet?
- Adjust the amount of brown sugar or sweet sauces like barbecue sauce to achieve a balance of sweet and savory flavors.
- Are Turkey Bacon Sloppy Joes high in protein?
- Yes, Turkey Bacon Sloppy Joes are a good source of protein due to the ground turkey and turkey bacon.
- Can I make Turkey Bacon Sloppy Joes spicy?
- Yes, you can add hot sauce, diced jalapeños, or cayenne pepper to make Turkey Bacon Sloppy Joes spicy.
- What’s the best way to shred lettuce for Turkey Bacon Sloppy Joes?
- Use a sharp knife to thinly slice lettuce into ribbons or use a mandoline slicer for even shredding.
- How do I thicken Turkey Bacon Sloppy Joes sauce?
- Simmer the mixture uncovered to allow liquid to evaporate, or add a cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with cold water) and stir until thickened.
- Can I add pineapple to Turkey Bacon Sloppy Joes?
- Yes, diced pineapple can add a sweet and tangy twist to Turkey Bacon Sloppy Joes.
- Can I use ground pork instead of ground turkey in Turkey Bacon Sloppy Joes?
- Yes, ground pork can be used instead of ground turkey for a different flavor profile.
- How do I prevent Turkey Bacon Sloppy Joes from being greasy?
- Use lean ground turkey and drain excess fat after browning. Blot cooked bacon with paper towels to remove excess grease before adding to the mixture.
- Can I make Turkey Bacon Sloppy Joes without onions?
- Yes, you can omit onions or substitute with other vegetables like celery or bell peppers.
- How do I add extra vegetables to Turkey Bacon Sloppy Joes?
- Dice vegetables finely and sauté them with the ground turkey and bacon before adding the sauce.
- What’s the difference between Turkey Bacon Sloppy Joes and regular Sloppy Joes?
- Turkey Bacon Sloppy Joes use ground turkey and turkey bacon instead of ground beef, offering a lighter and leaner option.
- How do you make Turkey Bacon Sloppy Joes creamy?
- Stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt just before serving to add creaminess to the sauce.
- Can I make Turkey Bacon Sloppy Joes spicy for adults and mild for kids?
- Yes, adjust the amount of hot sauce or spicy seasonings to suit different preferences.
- How can I add a smoky flavor to Turkey Bacon Sloppy Joes?
- Use smoked paprika or a few drops of liquid smoke in the sauce to add a smoky undertone.
- Are Turkey Bacon Sloppy Joes suitable for a low-carb diet?
- Turkey Bacon Sloppy Joes can be made lower in carbs by using lettuce wraps instead of buns or reducing the amount of sweet sauces.
- Can I use ground beef instead of ground turkey in Turkey Bacon Sloppy Joes?
- Yes, ground beef can be substituted for ground turkey in Turkey Bacon Sloppy Joes for a more traditional flavor.
These questions cover a wide range of topics related to Turkey Bacon Sloppy Joes, from ingredients and preparation to dietary considerations and flavor variations.