Description

Say goodbye to the can—this Copycat Manwich delivers all the nostalgic, sweet-and-savory flavor of the original with none of the preservatives. Perfect for busy weeknights or satisfying comfort food cravings, this easy dinner idea is packed with juicy ground beef, bold spices, and a tangy homemade sauce. If you’re looking for quick dinner ideas, a healthier alternative to store-bought sauces, or a hearty sandwich option for meal prep, this recipe has you covered. It’s an easy recipe that belongs in your weekly food ideas rotation.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef

1 small yellow onion, finely chopped

0.5 green bell pepper, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup tomato sauce

2 tablespoons tomato paste

1 tablespoon yellow mustard

2 tablespoons brown sugar

2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce

1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

1 teaspoon chili powder

0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika

0.5 teaspoon salt

0.25 teaspoon ground black pepper

0.25 cup water

Sandwich buns or hamburger rolls, for serving

Instructions

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until no longer pink—about 6–7 minutes. Drain excess fat.

2. Add the finely chopped onion, green bell pepper, and garlic to the beef. Cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.

3. Stir in tomato sauce, tomato paste, yellow mustard, and brown sugar. Mix thoroughly.

4. Add Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and water. Stir and bring to a gentle simmer.

5. Reduce heat to low and cook uncovered for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.

6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

7. Serve the hot mixture on toasted sandwich buns.

Notes

Toast the buns before serving to prevent sogginess and add texture.

Simmer longer for deeper flavor if time allows.

The recipe freezes well—make a double batch for future meals.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 sandwich (filling only)
Calories: 250
Sugar: 8g
Sodium: 520mg
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 18g
Cholesterol: 55mg

Keywords: copycat manwich, easy dinner, homemade sloppy joe, quick ground beef recipe