Sloppy Joes are one of those comfort foods that never really go out of style — savory, a little messy, and deeply satisfying. This bowl-style version keeps all that familiar flavor while lightening things up by swapping the bun for spaghetti squash and adding a side of simple roasted broccoli.
The squash absorbs the rich, tangy sauce, the beef brings classic Sloppy Joe nostalgia, and the broccoli adds texture and balance. It’s the kind of meal that feels cozy without being heavy — perfect for a weeknight when you want something comforting but still want to feel good after dinner.
If you enjoy lighter takes on classic comfort food, explore more from the Quick & Easy Weeknight Recipes Collection, or browse the Healthy Recipes category for meals that balance flavor and simplicity. You can also revisit the original version in Classic Sloppy Joes Done Right to see how this bowl compares to the traditional sandwich.
Check out my most-used kitchen tool, the Meat Chopper. It works great for all these recipes.
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Lighter Sloppy Joe Bowls with Roasted Broccoli
Ingredients
- 1/4 tbsp olive oil
- ½ lb ground beef
- 1/4 red onion, diced
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1/4 cup tomato or marinara sauce
- 3/4 garlic cloves
- 1/8 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1/4 tsp chili powder
- 1/4 tsp sea salt
- 1/4 tbsp host sauce
- 1/4 tsp apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper
- 1/3 large spaghetti squash
- 8 oz package broccoli florets
- 1/4 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 tsp sea salt
Instructions
- Soften the squashCarefully make a few shallow cuts around the outside of the spaghetti squash to allow steam to escape. Place it on a microwave-safe plate and microwave on medium-high in 5-minute increments.
- Rotate and finishRotate the squash every 5 minutes until it’s tender when pressed, about 10–15 minutes total depending on size.
- Prepare the squashLet the squash rest for 10 minutes. Cut it in half, scoop out the seeds, then use a fork to gently pull the flesh into strands. Set aside.
- Sloppy Joe Mixture – Build the baseHeat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and fragrant, about 5–7 minutes.
- Brown the beefAdd the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5 minutes.
- Simmer the sauceStir in the remaining Sloppy Joe ingredients. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until thickened and flavorful. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Roast Broccoli until crisp-tenderPreheat the oven to 400°F. Toss the broccoli florets with olive oil and sea salt, then spread them out on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Roast for 12–14 minutes, until tender with lightly crisp edges.
- Serve – Assemble the bowlsDivide the spaghetti squash into bowls, spoon the Sloppy Joe mixture over the top, and serve with roasted broccoli on the side. Enjoy while warm.
