Sweet Heat BBQ Pork Sloppy Joes
October 23, 2025 • 0 comments
Growing up, my mom always made Sloppy Joes on Halloween night. The idea was simple, fill us up with something hearty and delicious so we’d eat a little less candy later. It never completely worked, but it became one of those traditions I still think about every year.
Now that I’m a mom, I love keeping the tradition alive but adding my own twist - like these Texas BBQ–style Sloppy Joes. They’re nostalgic and new all at once: smoky, a little sweet, and full of flavor. You can use your favorite BBQ sauce or make your own! Whether it’s Halloween night or just a busy weeknight, these Sweet Heat BBQ Pork Sloppy Joes are one of those meals that brings everyone to the table fast. They’re simple, a little messy, and totally satisfying — just how Sloppy Joes should be. Serve them up with a side of slaw or sweet potato fries, and you’ve got a meal that feels both nostalgic and fresh.
- Prep Time:
- Cook Time:
- Servings: 6
Directions
Ingredients
- 2 lb ground pork (can also use ground beef, or mix them)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup of your favorite BBQ sauce (homemade recipe here)
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ¼ tsp cayenne
- 1 tbsp honey
- Salt + pepper to taste
- Butter or oil for cooking
To serve:
- Toasted buns (brioche or potato rolls)
- Pickled jalapeños or Pickles
- Coleslaw
Directions
- Cook the pork:
Heat a skillet over medium-high. Add pork and cook 5–6 minutes, breaking it up as it browns. Drain extra fat. - Add onion + garlic:
Stir in and cook until soft and fragrant, about 3–4 minutes. - Season + sauce:
Lower heat to medium. Stir in your BBQ sauce, chili powder, cayenne (or jalapeño), vinegar, and honey. - Simmer:
Let it bubble gently for 10–15 minutes, uncovered, until thick and glossy. Taste and adjust — a pinch more honey for mellow sweetness, or an extra dash of vinegar for brightness. - Serve:
Spoon onto toasted buns. Add jalapeños, pickles or slaw for crunch
