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Easy Vegan Sloppy Joes: Best Veggie Sloppy Joe Recipe

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Get ready for meaty, juicy, peppery BBQ mushrooms sloppy Joes tucked inside warm fluffy brioche buns. These vegan sloppy Joes are out of this world – think sloppy, juicy, BBQ food bliss for the whole family. A ready in just 20-minutes Plant-based sloppy Joe’s recipe that is all kinds of good. 

This Easy Vegan Sloppy Joes recipe is my plant-based take on everyone’s favorite classic. We’re transforming the traditional Sloppy Joes with great recipe that’s loaded with delicious flavors. This Barbecue meaty-like Mushrooms burger is a saucy BBQ dream come true tucked inside a toasted brioche burger. Pile your burger high with delicious saucy BBQ mushrooms with a side of slaw and dinner is ready in under 20-minutes.

It’s flavorful, it’s meaty, it’s vegan and it’s totally delicious. The mushrooms work as a vegan meat substitute making it a perfect healthy recipe for easy weeknight dinners!

What it takes to make a great vegan sloppy Joes recipe 

First of all, we need a BBQ sauce that will make the angels sing and lots of it. We want a saucy, sloppy, and drippy mess of deliciousness.

Secondly, we have to have mushrooms. I like to use baby Bella mushrooms, but portobello mushrooms will work just as well. The mushrooms are going to give us that meaty texture and deep umami flavors we want.

Thirdly, we have to have a good brioche bun. Whether you’re making your own or using bakery brioche bread they should be fresh and fluffy. Trust me when I say it will make the texture experience so much better to use fresh brioche bread.

Mmm, there are so many tasty things to serve with veggie sloppy Joes. Here’s a quick rundown of my favorites to serve with this easy recipe:

What Are Vegan Sloppy Joes?

Vegan sloppy joes are a delicious, plant-based twist on the classic American comfort food. Traditionally, sloppy joes are made with ground beef simmered in a tangy tomato-based sauce, then served on a soft bun. The vegan version swaps out the meat for hearty, flavorful alternatives that capture the same savory, messy goodness without any animal products.

Ingredients and Flavors

The key to great vegan sloppy joes is in the choice of ingredients. Common substitutes for the meat include lentils, chickpeas, tofu, or our favorite – mushrooms. Baby Bella mushrooms, in particular, offer a rich, meaty texture and a robust flavor that pairs perfectly with the traditional sloppy joe sauce. The sauce itself typically combines tomato paste, BBQ sauce, and a blend of spices to create a mouthwatering mix of sweet, tangy, and smoky flavors.

Why You’ll Love Them

Vegan sloppy joes are not just for vegans; they’re a hit with anyone who enjoys a flavorful, hearty meal. They’re packed with nutrients, thanks to the plant-based ingredients, and are incredibly satisfying. Plus, they’re easy to make, making them a great choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual get-together. 

Versatile and Customizable

One of the best things about vegan sloppy joes is their versatility. You can customize them to suit your taste by adjusting the spices, adding different vegetables, or trying out various plant-based proteins. Want more heat? Add extra cayenne or jalapeños. Prefer a smokier flavor? Increase the smoked paprika or add liquid smoke. The possibilities are endless!

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you’re serving them at a family dinner, bringing them to a potluck, or enjoying them at a summer BBQ, vegan sloppy joes are always a crowd-pleaser. Serve them on toasted buns, and top with your favorite slaw or pickles for an extra crunch. The hearty sandwich is also great with a side of sweet potato fries or a fresh salad.

Vegan sloppy joes are a delicious and nutritious alternative to the classic dish. They offer the same comforting flavors and satisfying texture but with a healthy, plant-based twist. Easy to make and endlessly customizable, they’re a perfect addition to any meal plan. Give them a try and discover just how tasty and versatile vegan cooking can be!

What are vegan sloppy Joes made from

Let’s dive into what makes these vegan sloppy joes so delicious!

Brioche Buns, Toasted: We start with soft, slightly sweet brioche buns that we toast to add a bit of crunch. They’re the perfect base to hold all the juicy, flavorful filling without getting too soggy.

Olive Oil: This is our go-to for sautéing the veggies. It adds a nice richness and helps to bring out the natural flavors of the mushrooms and onions.

Baby Bella Mushrooms, Sliced: These are the star of our show. Baby Bella mushrooms have a meaty texture that’s perfect for replacing the traditional ground beef. When cooked, they soak up all the delicious spices and BBQ sauce, making each bite super satisfying.

Red Onions, Sliced: We use red onions for a bit of sweetness and sharpness. They add a nice depth of flavor that complements the mushrooms perfectly.

Seasoning ingredients

Garlic, Finely Chopped or Minced: No savory dish is complete without garlic. It brings a wonderful aroma and a punch of flavor that elevates the entire dish.

Brown Sugar or Maple Syrup: Just a touch of sweetness to balance out the tangy and smoky flavors. It’s the secret ingredient that makes the BBQ sauce sing.

Smoked Paprika: This spice adds a smoky depth and a bit of warmth to the dish. It’s what gives the sloppy joes that authentic BBQ flavor.

BBQ Sauce: The magic ingredient that ties everything together. We mix it in with the sautéed mushrooms and onions to create a tangy, sweet, and smoky sauce that’s just irresistible.

When you put all these ingredients together, you get a mouthwatering, plant-based take on a classic comfort food. The mushrooms soak up all the BBQ goodness, the onions add a sweet-savory note, and the spices bring that perfect kick. Serve it all on a toasted brioche bun, and you’ve got a sloppy joe that’s every bit as hearty and flavorful as the original, but completely vegan!

Equipment needed to make vegan sloppy Joe recipe 

To make these delicious vegan sloppy joes, you’ll need just a few basic kitchen tools:

1. Non-Stick Pan or Skillet: For sautéing the mushrooms, onions, and garlic. A medium to large-sized pan will work best to ensure even cooking.

2. Cutting Board: To safely chop and slice your vegetables.

3. Sharp Knife: For slicing the mushrooms, onions, and finely chopping the garlic.

4. Measuring Spoons: To accurately measure your spices, brown sugar, and other ingredients.

5. Mixing Spoon or Spatula: For stirring the ingredients together in the pan.

6. Toaster or Oven: To toast the brioche buns for a nice, crunchy texture.

7. Serving Utensils: To scoop the sloppy joe mixture onto the toasted buns.

These are all you need to whip up a batch of tasty vegan sloppy joes in no time!

Sloppy Joe sauce

Time for a serious conversation. We need to talk about Barbecue sauce

Should you use homemade or store-bought BBQ sauce? It depends. If you have the time I would recommend making your own BBQ sauce because you know exactly what’s in it and the taste will be amazing because you can tailor it to fit your tastebuds. But if you are short on time or just don’t feel like making your own Barbecue sauce you can always grab your favorite store-bought sauce and get cooking. There are no rules and no judgment. Just do what’s easiest for you. The sloppy Joes will turn out great no matter what.

Homemade sloppy Joe BBQ sauce recipe 

Transform your vegan sloppy joes into a mouthwatering delight with our homemade BBQ sauce! This quick and easy-to-make sauce brings a perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and smoky flavors that pair beautifully with hearty plant-based fillings. Whether you’re using lentils, beans, or crumbled tofu, this BBQ sauce will add an irresistible kick to your sloppy joes, making them a crowd-pleaser for both vegans and non-vegans alike. Get ready to enjoy a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!

Vegan BBQ Sauce Recipe Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup (120g) tomato paste
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) apple cider vinegar
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) maple syrup
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) water
  • 1 tablespoon (15ml) soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free)
  • 1 tablespoon (15ml) molasses
  • 1 teaspoon (2g) smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon (1g) garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon (1g) onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon (1g) ground cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon (0.5g) black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon (0.5g) salt
  • A pinch of cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

How to make Sloppy Joe sauce Instructions:

    1.    Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the tomato paste, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, water, soy sauce (or tamari), and molasses until smooth.

    2.    Add Spices: Stir in the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, ground cumin, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix until all the spices are well incorporated.

    3.    Adjust Consistency: If the sauce is too thick for your liking, you can add a little more water, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.

    4.    Taste and Adjust: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed. You can add more maple syrup for sweetness, more vinegar for tang, or more spices for extra flavor.

    5.    Store: Transfer the BBQ sauce to a small jar or airtight container. It can be used immediately, but it tastes even better after sitting for a few hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld. Store in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Enjoy your homemade vegan BBQ sauce on sloppy Joes, veggie burgers, grilled vegetables, tofu, or anything else you like to BBQ!

Plant based Sloppy Joes ingredients 

Let’s look at what we’re working with today

Ingredients to Make the Best Sloppy Mushroom Burgers

Brioche Buns, Toasted: These soft, slightly sweet buns provide the perfect base for our sloppy mushroom burgers. Toasting them adds a delightful crunch that complements the juicy filling. Alternatively, you can substitute with hamburger buns, hoagie rolls, whole wheat burger bun for a healthier option, or opt for gluten-free buns for a celiac disease friendly option. 

Olive Oil: This versatile oil helps to sauté the mushrooms and onions, bringing out their natural flavors and adding a touch of richness to the dish.

Baby Bella Mushrooms, Sliced: The star of our vegan sloppy joes, Baby Bella mushrooms offer a meaty texture and earthy flavor that mimics traditional sloppy joe filling. They soak up the seasoning and BBQ sauce beautifully.

Red Onions, Sliced: Adding a touch of sweetness and a hint of sharpness, red onions enhance the overall flavor profile of the sloppy joes, making each bite more interesting and delicious.

Garlic, Finely Chopped or Minced: This aromatic ingredient infuses the dish with its distinctive, savory flavor, making the sloppy mushroom burgers even more irresistible.

Brown Sugar or Maple Syrup: A touch of sweetness balances the tanginess of the BBQ sauce and the savoriness of the mushrooms, creating a well-rounded flavor that’s simply delicious.

Smoked Paprika: This spice adds a smoky depth and a mild heat to the burgers, enhancing their overall flavor and giving them that classic BBQ taste.

BBQ Sauce: The essential ingredient that ties everything together, BBQ sauce coats the mushrooms in a tangy, sweet, and smoky glaze, making these vegan sloppy joes absolutely mouthwatering.

By combining these ingredients, you’ll create the best sloppy mushroom burgers that are flavorful, satisfying, and sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!

Easy Vegan Sloppy Joes recipe 

Get ready for a delicious twist on a classic favorite with these Easy Vegan Sloppy Joes! Packed with the rich, savory flavors of Baby Bella mushrooms and a tangy homemade BBQ sauce, these sloppy joes are perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. Served on toasted brioche buns and topped with your favorite slaw, they’re a hit for vegans and non-vegans alike. Let’s dive into this simple, flavorful recipe that’s sure to become a household favorite!

Vegan sloppy Joe Ingredients:

  • 4 brioche buns, toasted
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Baby Bella mushrooms, sliced or finely chopped
  • 2 red onions, sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped or minced
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar or maple syrup
  • 2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/4 cup BBQ sauce

How to Make Vegan Sloppy Joes Step-by-Step Guide:

Step 1: Heat a non-stick pan over high heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for a few minutes, stirring occasionally. Reduce the heat to medium-high and sauté until golden brown.

Step 2: Drizzle the mushrooms with olive oil, then add salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and finely chopped garlic. Stir to combine and cook for another minute.

Step 3: Lower the heat to a simmer. Stir in the brown sugar, then add the BBQ sauce, mixing until the mushrooms are well-coated. Let the sauce simmer for a minute to thicken. If too thick, add a bit of water or extra BBQ sauce.

Step 4: Serve the BBQ mushrooms on toasted brioche buns, topped with slaw or your favorite toppings. Enjoy this delicious, hearty meal!

Vegan sloppy Joe recipe tips and tricks 

To achieve a texture closer to regular meat in your vegan sloppy joes, try finely chopping or using a food processor to mince the mushrooms. Here’s a helpful tip:

Tip for Meat-Like Texture:

For a texture more reminiscent of ground meat, finely chop or pulse the mushrooms in a food processor until they reach a ground meat consistency. This step helps the mushrooms blend seamlessly with the sauce and gives your sloppy joes a satisfying, meaty texture. Make sure not to over-process to maintain some texture and bite. Adjust the chopping time based on your preference for a chunkier or smoother consistency.

Lazy tip: make it in an instant pot 

Adapting the vegan sloppy joe recipe to an Instant Pot can be convenient and straightforward. Here’s how you can do it:

How to make vegan sloppy joes in an instant pot Instructions:

    1.    Sauté Mushrooms and Onions:

    •    Set the Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode and heat the olive oil. Add the finely chopped mushrooms and sliced onions. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the mushrooms release their moisture and the onions are softened.

    2.    Add Garlic and Spices:

    •    Add the finely chopped garlic, brown sugar or maple syrup, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine and sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

    3.    Deglaze and Add BBQ Sauce:

    •    Pour in the BBQ sauce and stir to coat the mushroom mixture evenly. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the Instant Pot to prevent burning.

    4.    Pressure Cook:

    •    Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set the valve to the sealing position. Cook on high pressure for 5 minutes.

    5.    Natural Release and Serve:

    •    Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow the pressure to naturally release for 5 minutes, then carefully quick release any remaining pressure.

    6.    Serve:

    •    Open the lid and give the mixture a stir. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve the vegan sloppy joe mixture on toasted buns and enjoy!

Notes:

    •    Consistency Adjustment: If the mixture is too thin after cooking, you can switch the Instant Pot back to “Sauté” mode and simmer uncovered for a few minutes to thicken it up.

    •    Toppings: Consider adding toppings like coleslaw, pickles, avocado slices, or vegan cheese for extra flavor and texture.

This method not only speeds up the cooking process but also allows the flavors to meld together beautifully in the Instant Pot. Adjust cooking times and seasoning according to your preferences for the perfect vegan sloppy joes!

Crockpot Sloppy Joes 

You can easily whip this delicious Sloppy Joes recipe up in a crock pot or slow cooker. Here’s how:

Instructions:

    1.    Sauté Mushrooms and Onions (Optional):

    •    While not necessary, you can optionally sauté the mushrooms and onions in a skillet with olive oil until softened and lightly browned before adding them to the slow cooker. This step enhances the flavors, but you can skip it if you prefer.

    2.    Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker:

    •    Place the finely chopped mushrooms, sliced onions, garlic, brown sugar or maple syrup, smoked paprika, BBQ sauce, salt, and pepper in the slow cooker. Stir well to combine.

    3.    Cook on Low:

    •    Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 4-6 hours or until the mushrooms are tender and the flavors have melded together. Stir occasionally if possible to ensure even cooking.

    4.    Serve:

    •    Once cooked, taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve the vegan sloppy joe mixture on toasted buns and enjoy!

Notes:

    •    Consistency Adjustment: If the mixture is too thin after cooking, you can thicken it by leaving the slow cooker lid slightly ajar and cooking on high for the last 30 minutes, or by stirring in a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water) and cooking until thickened.

    •    Toppings: Consider adding toppings like coleslaw, pickles, avocado slices, or vegan cheese for extra flavor and texture to your vegetarian sandwiches. 

Using a slow cooker allows the flavors to develop slowly and evenly, resulting in a deliciously savory vegan sloppy joe filling. Enjoy this easy and comforting meal with minimal effort!

Vegetarian Sloppy Joe Substitutes and Variations

Other Mushrooms to Use

1. Portobello Mushrooms: These large, meaty mushrooms are perfect for creating a hearty texture similar to ground beef. Dice them into small pieces for the best result.

2. Shiitake Mushrooms: Known for their rich, savory flavor, shiitake mushrooms can add a depth of umami to your sloppy joes.

3. Oyster Mushrooms: These mushrooms have a tender texture and a mild flavor, making them a great alternative. Tear them into strips for a unique texture.

4. Cremini Mushrooms: These are essentially younger portobello mushrooms, offering a similar texture but with a slightly more delicate flavor.

Extra Seasonings

1. Cumin: Add a teaspoon of ground cumin for a warm, earthy flavor that complements the smoked paprika.

2. Chili Powder: For a bit of extra heat and complexity, incorporate a teaspoon of chili powder.

3. Liquid Smoke: Just a few drops can enhance the smoky flavor without overpowering the dish.

4. Soy Sauce or Tamari: A splash can add depth and umami to the mixture.

5. Worcestershire Sauce (Vegan): Adds a savory, slightly tangy flavor that enhances the overall taste.

6. Balsamic Vinegar: A tablespoon can add a touch of acidity and sweetness to balance the flavors.

7. Mustard Powder: Adds a subtle tangy heat that pairs well with BBQ flavors.

Delicious Toppings

1. Avocado: Sliced or mashed avocado adds a creamy, rich texture that balances the spiciness.

2. Coleslaw: A tangy, crunchy coleslaw can add a refreshing contrast to the savory mushrooms.

3. Pickled Jalapeños: For an extra kick, add some pickled jalapeños on top.

4. Sliced Pickles: Add a tangy crunch that complements the sweet and smoky flavors.

5. Vegan Cheese: Melt some vegan cheddar or mozzarella on top for a gooey, cheesy finish.

6. Fresh Herbs: Chopped cilantro or parsley can add a fresh, vibrant touch.

7. Red Onion Rings: Thinly sliced red onions provide a sharp contrast and crunch.

8. Grilled Pineapple: A slice of grilled pineapple adds a sweet and smoky flavor that pairs wonderfully with the BBQ sauce.

9. Spinach or Arugula: Fresh greens can add a slight peppery taste and a bit of crunch.

10. Tomato Slices: Fresh, juicy tomato slices can add a refreshing element to the sandwich.

Combinations and Serving Ideas

1. Mushroom and Lentil Combo: Combine diced mushrooms with cooked lentils for a protein-packed, hearty filling.

2. Spicy Sloppy Joes: Add extra chili powder, cayenne pepper, green pepper, and hot sauce for a spicier version.

3. Sweet and Smoky: Use a combination of brown sugar, smoked paprika, and a splash of liquid smoke for a sweet and smoky flavor profile.

4. Loaded Sloppy Joes: Top your sloppy joes with avocado, coleslaw, pickles, red bell pepper, and vegan cheese for a fully loaded experience.

5. Southwest Style: Add black beans, corn, and a sprinkle of cumin and chili powder for a southwestern twist.

With these substitutes, extra seasonings, and delicious toppings, you can customize your vegetarian sloppy joes to suit any taste preference or craving!

What to serve with vegan sloppy Joes 

Here are some great vegetarian and vegan side dishes to serve with vegan sloppy joes:

Vegetarian and Vegan Side Dish Ideas

1. Sweet Potato Fries:

   – Crispy baked or fried sweet potato fries are a perfect match for sloppy joes. They add a touch of sweetness and are a healthier alternative to regular fries.

2. Coleslaw:

   – A tangy vegan coleslaw made with shredded cabbage, carrots, and a creamy vegan mayo dressing provides a refreshing crunch that complements the rich flavors of sloppy joes.

3. Corn on the Cob:

   – Grilled or boiled corn on the cob, brushed with vegan butter and sprinkled with a bit of chili powder, is a classic side that’s always a hit.

4. Mixed Green Salad:

   – A simple green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette is a fresh and light side that balances the heartiness of sloppy joes.

5. Potato Salad:

   – A vegan potato salad made with tender potatoes, vegan mayo, mustard, pickles, and celery for crunch is a great side dish.

6. Roasted Vegetables:

   – A medley of roasted vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, zucchini, and broccoli seasoned with olive oil, salt, and pepper makes for a nutritious and colorful side.

7. Vegan Mac and Cheese:

   – Creamy vegan mac and cheese made with a cashew or potato-carrot-based cheese sauce is a comforting and indulgent side.

8. Baked Beans:

   – Smoky, sweet baked beans cooked with onions, molasses, and vegan-friendly barbecue sauce pair wonderfully with sloppy joes.

9. Pickles and Pickled Vegetables:

   – A variety of pickles, such as dill pickles, pickled jalapeños, and pickled carrots, can add a tangy and crunchy contrast to your meal.

10. Fruit Salad:

    – A fresh fruit salad with seasonal fruits like watermelon, berries, and mint can provide a sweet and refreshing finish to your meal.

11. Garlic Bread:

    – Toasted garlic bread made with vegan butter and minced garlic is a great side to soak up any extra sloppy joe sauce. You can grab my easy vegan garlic bread recipe here.

12. Vegan Caesar Salad:

    – A classic Caesar salad made with crisp romaine lettuce, vegan Caesar dressing, and crunchy croutons.

13. Quinoa Salad:

    – A refreshing quinoa salad with chopped veggies, herbs, and a light lemon vinaigrette is a protein-packed, nutritious side.

Combos and Serving Ideas

1. Loaded Sweet Potato Fries:

   – Top sweet potato fries with vegan cheese, green onions, and jalapeños for a loaded version.

2. Slaw on the Sloppy Joes:

   – Add a scoop of coleslaw directly on top of the sloppy joe for extra crunch and flavor.

3. Grilled Veggie Platter:

   – Serve a variety of grilled vegetables like portobello mushrooms, asparagus, and eggplant for a smoky and satisfying side.

4. Tex-Mex Style:

   – Serve with black bean and corn salad, avocado slices, and a squeeze of lime for a Tex-Mex twist.

By pairing your vegan sloppy joes with these delicious and nutritious sides, you’ll create a well-rounded and satisfying meal that everyone will love!

How to meal prep and store 

Meal prepping and storing vegan sloppy joes is a great way to have quick and convenient meals throughout the week. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to meal prep and store this recipe:

Meal Prep Steps:

1. Prepare the Sloppy Joe Mixture:

   – Follow the recipe instructions to cook the mushroom and onion mixture with the BBQ sauce and seasonings. Allow it to cool completely before storing.

2. Toast the Buns (Optional):

   – If you prefer toasted buns, you can toast them lightly in a toaster or oven. Allow them to cool before assembling the sandwiches.

3. Assemble the Sloppy Joes:

   – Spoon the cooled sloppy joe mixture onto the bottom halves of the toasted buns. If you’re adding any toppings like coleslaw or avocado, you can add them now.

4. Wrap or Containerize:

   – Wrap each assembled sloppy joe tightly in plastic wrap or place them in airtight containers to prevent them from drying out or absorbing other flavors in the fridge.

Storage Tips:

– Refrigerator Storage: Store the assembled sloppy joes in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Keep them in airtight containers or wrap them well in plastic wrap to maintain freshness.

– Freezer Storage: You can freeze the cooked mushroom and onion mixture (without the buns) in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating Instructions:

– Refrigerated Sloppy Joes: To reheat, unwrap the sloppy joes and place them on a microwave-safe plate. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes until heated through.

– Frozen Mushroom Mixture: Thaw the frozen mushroom and onion mixture overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.

Meal Prep Tips:

– Portion Control: Consider portioning out individual servings before storing to make it easier to grab and go for lunches or dinners.

– Customize as Needed: You can customize your sloppy joes with different toppings and side dishes throughout the week to keep meals interesting.

– Label and Date: Don’t forget to label your containers with the contents and date of preparation to keep track of freshness.

By following these meal prep and storage tips, you can enjoy delicious vegan sloppy joes throughout the week with minimal effort!

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Frequently Asked Questions about vegan sloppy Joes

Are vegan sloppy Joes meal prep friendly?

Yes. The saucy BBQ Mushrooms keep really well in the refrigerator and can be made 1-2 days in advance. They also make a great leftover lunch sandwich for the next day.

What are vegan sloppy Joes made of?

These vegan sloppy Joes are made using mushrooms to give the meaty texture and umami flavors in a completely natural way. There’s no vegetable meat or textured vegetable protein in sight. It’s a natural clean eating recipe that tastes decadent with smoky barbecue flavors.

What kind of BBQ sauce should I use to make sloppy Joes?

I recommend using your favorite homemade BBQ sauce recipe if you have one. Alternatively, you can use your fave grocery store barbecue sauce, preferably one with a hickory note to it. 
You can also use my homemade BBQ sauce recipe that you can find here.

Can I leave out the brown sugar?

Yes. I like my sloppy Joes to have a layer of caramel sweetness to it, but you can easily omit the sugar if you prefer.

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Easy Vegan Sloppy Joes

Get ready for meaty, juicy, peppery BBQ mushrooms sloppy Joes tucked inside warm fluffy brioche buns. These vegan sloppy Joes are out of this world – think sloppy, juicy, BBQ food bliss. A ready in just 20-minutes Plant-based sloppy Joe's recipe that is all kinds of good.
Simone – Munchyesta.com
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Serving Size 4 people

Ingredients

  • 4 Brioche Buns Toasted
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil
  • 4 cups (350g) Baby Bella Mushrooms Sliced or finely chopped
  • 2 Red Onions Sliced
  • 3 cloves Garlic Finely chopped
  • 1 tbsp Brown Sugar or maple syrup
  • 2 tsp Smoked Paprika
  • ¼ cup Vegan BBQ Sauce

Instructions

How to make vegan sloppy Joe's:

  • Heat a non-stick pan. Transfer the sliced mushrooms to the hot pan and let them cook at high heat for a few minutes while stirring occasionally. Turn the heat down to medium-high and let the mushrooms sauté until they are golden brown.
  • Once the mushrooms are starting to turn golden drizzle with olive oil and add salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and finely chopped garlic. Mix everything to combine and let it cook for one more minute while stirring.
    Turn the heat down to a simmer before stirring in the brown sugar. 
  • Next, add the BBQ sauce and mix until all the mushrooms are coated in BBQ sauce. Let the sauce simmer for only a minute just to let it thicken ever so slightly. If the sauce is too thick, just add a little water or a tad more BBQ sauce.
  • Serve your BBQ mushrooms on a toasted bun topped with a slaw or anything else you want and get ready to dig into this deliciousness.

How to make vegan Sloppy Joes in Instant Pot

    Sauté Mushrooms and Onions:

    • Set the Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode and heat the olive oil. Add the finely chopped mushrooms and sliced onions. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the mushrooms release their moisture and the onions are softened.

    Add Garlic and Spices:

    • Add the finely chopped garlic, brown sugar or maple syrup, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine and sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

    Deglaze and Add BBQ Sauce:

    • Pour in the BBQ sauce and stir to coat the mushroom mixture evenly. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the Instant Pot to prevent burning.

    Pressure Cook:

    • Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set the valve to the sealing position. Cook on high pressure for 5 minutes.

    Natural Release and Serve:

    • Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow the pressure to naturally release for 5 minutes, then carefully quick release any remaining pressure.

    Serve:

    • Open the lid and give the mixture a stir. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve the vegan sloppy joe mixture on toasted buns and enjoy!

    Notes:

    • Consistency Adjustment: If the mixture is too thin after cooking, you can switch the Instant Pot back to “Sauté” mode and simmer uncovered for a few minutes to thicken it up.
    • Toppings: Consider adding toppings like coleslaw, pickles, avocado slices, or vegan cheese for extra flavor and texture.
    • This method not only speeds up the cooking process but also allows the flavors to meld together beautifully in the Instant Pot. Adjust cooking times and seasoning according to your preferences for the perfect vegan sloppy joes!

    Crockpot vegan sloppy Joes Instructions:

      Sauté Mushrooms and Onions (Optional):

      • While not necessary, you can optionally sauté the mushrooms and onions in a skillet with olive oil until softened and lightly browned before adding them to the slow cooker. This step enhances the flavors, but you can skip it if you prefer.

      Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker:

      • Place the finely chopped mushrooms, sliced onions, garlic, brown sugar or maple syrup, smoked paprika, BBQ sauce, salt, and pepper in the slow cooker. Stir well to combine.

      Cook on Low:

      • Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 4-6 hours or until the mushrooms are tender and the flavors have melded together. Stir occasionally if possible to ensure even cooking.

      Serve:

      • Once cooked, taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve the vegan sloppy joe mixture on toasted buns and enjoy!

      Notes

      • Consistency Adjustment: If the mixture is too thin after cooking, you can thicken it by leaving the slow cooker lid slightly ajar and cooking on high for the last 30 minutes, or by stirring in a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water) and cooking until thickened.
      •Toppings: Consider adding toppings like coleslaw, pickles, avocado slices, or vegan cheese for extra flavor and texture.
      Using a slow cooker allows the flavors to develop slowly and evenly, resulting in a deliciously savory vegan sloppy joe filling. Enjoy this easy and comforting meal with minimal effort!
       

      Vegan BBQ Sauce Recipe

      Ingredients:
      •1/2 cup (120g) tomato paste
      •1/4 cup (60ml) apple cider vinegar
      •1/4 cup (60ml) maple syrup
      •1/4 cup (60ml) water
      •1 tablespoon (15ml) soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free)
      •1 tablespoon (15ml) molasses
      •1 teaspoon (2g) smoked paprika
      •1/2 teaspoon (1g) garlic powder
      •1/2 teaspoon (1g) onion powder
      •1/2 teaspoon (1g) ground cumin
      •1/4 teaspoon (0.5g) black pepper
      •1/4 teaspoon (0.5g) salt
      •A pinch of cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
      Instructions:
      1.Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the tomato paste, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, water, soy sauce (or tamari), and molasses until smooth.
      2.Add Spices: Stir in the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, ground cumin, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix until all the spices are well incorporated.
      3.Adjust Consistency: If the sauce is too thick for your liking, you can add a little more water, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
      4.Taste and Adjust: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed. You can add more maple syrup for sweetness, more vinegar for tang, or more spices for extra flavor.
      5.Store: Transfer the BBQ sauce to a small jar or airtight container. It can be used immediately, but it tastes even better after sitting for a few hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld. Store in the refrigerator for up to a week.
      Enjoy your homemade vegan BBQ sauce on veggie burgers, grilled vegetables, tofu, or anything else you like to BBQ!

      Recipe originally published August 19, 2022

      Recipe updated July 8, 2024

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      One Comment

      1. 5 stars
        I cannot even tell you how much my family and I love this vegan sloppy Joes recipe. I always finely chop the mushrooms to get that real sloppy Joes texture and it’s perfect. We never make any other recipes since we tried your sloppy Joes!

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