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Low-Carb Sloppy Joes

Tana
This recipe puts a healthy twist on the classic Sloppy Joe, cutting out the sugar and processed ingredients while keeping all the bold, savory flavors you love. Made with seasoned ground beef, a tangy homemade sauce, and served on a fluffy keto bun, it’s hearty, satisfying, and perfect for anyone watching their carbs. Enjoy the comfort of this American favorite without the carb crash!
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Calories 230 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground beef 85–90% lean works best
  • 1/2 cup onion finely diced
  • 1/2 cup green bell pepper finely diced (optional)
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/2 cup sugar-free ketchup or tomato paste + a little water if you prefer less sweetness
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce or coconut aminos for soy-free
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp salt adjust to taste
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 2 –3 tbsp water as needed for saucy consistency
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese optional
  • pickles optional
  • mustard optional

Instructions
 

  • Cook the beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
  • Add veggies: Stir in onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté until softened, about 3–4 minutes.
  • Make the sauce: Reduce heat to low. Stir in ketchup, tomato paste, Worcestershire, Dijon, paprika, chili powder, salt, pepper. Add a splash of water to loosen the sauce.
  • Simmer: Let everything cook together for 5–7 minutes until the mixture thickens and the flavors meld.
  • Serve: Spoon over a low-carb bun, inside a lettuce wrap, or even on top of zucchini boats or cauliflower rice. Add mustard, pickles and cheese to complete the meal if desired.

Notes

Keto Bun (powdered butter + 1 egg)
  • Calories: ~140
  • Protein: ~7g
  • Fat: ~11g
  • Total Carbs: ~1g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Net Carbs: ~1g
Sloppy Joe Filling (per serving, with sugar-free sauce + beef)
  • Calories: ~230
  • Protein: ~20g
  • Fat: ~15g
  • Total Carbs: ~4g
  • Fiber: ~1g
  • Net Carbs: ~3g
Total (1 Sloppy Joe + 1 Bun)
  • Calories: ~370
  • Protein: ~27g
  • Fat: ~26g
  • Total Carbs: ~5g
  • Fiber: ~1g
  • Net Carbs: ~4g

  • Keto Bun (Single Serving)

    Ingredients:
    • 1 large egg
    • 2 tablespoons powdered butter
    Instructions:
    1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
    2. In a small bowl, whisk the egg until smooth. Stir in powdered butter until well combined.
    3. Pour batter into a greased ramekin or muffin tin.
    4. Bake for 12–15 minutes, until firm and golden.
    5. Let cool slightly, then slice in half to use as a bun.