If you are looking for an easy weeknight dinner, these 20- minute Vegan Lentil Sloppy Joes deserve a spot on your menu. They are hearty, saucy, and packed with flavor.
Traditional sloppy joes rely on ground beef. This plant-based version uses lentils instead. The result is just as satisfying. Serve these vegan sloppy joes on toasted buns. Add a side of house salad or roasted vegetables. Dinner is done.
The filling is rich and savory. A slightly sweet tomato sauce coats every bite. Bell peppers and onions add texture and freshness. The lentils provide plenty of plant-based protein and fiber. The ingredients are affordable and easy to find. An Instant Pot option makes the cooking process even easier.
I love recipes that check multiple boxes. They should be wholesome. They should taste good. And they should be simple enough for a Tuesday night. This recipe does exactly that.
Why You'll Love This Lentil Sloppy Joes Recipe
There are many reasons to make this recipe again and again.
- Vegan and dairy-free.
- Rich in plant-based protein.
- Ready in 20 minutes.
- Made with pantry ingredients.
- Kid-friendly.
- Budget-friendly.
- Great for meal prep.
- Freezer-friendly.
- Includes stovetop and Instant Pot instructions.
What Makes Lentils Perfect for Sloppy Joes?
Lentils are one of my favorite meat substitutes.
They have a naturally hearty texture and they absorb flavors beautifully. They also hold their shape during cooking. Unlike some plant-based proteins, lentils do not require extensive preparation.
They cook quickly. They are also incredibly nutritious. One serving provides protein, fiber, iron, folate, and potassium.
Similar to Spaghetti Lentil Bolognese, Vegan Lentil Chili, One Pot Lentil Soup, and Protein-rich Lentil Salad, this is my favorite lentil recipe.
Brown and green lentils work especially well in this recipe because they remain firm after cooking. You can also use red lentils if you prefer more mushy texture.
Ingredients You'll Need
Lentils
Cooked brown or green lentils create the meaty texture. You can cook them from scratch or use leftover lentils. For quick dinner, use cooked lentils.
Onion and Bell pepper and Garlic
Yellow onion adds sweetness and depth. Red bell pepper brings color and a subtle sweetness. Green pepper can also be used. (Vegetables are optional but add nice flavors and fiber to this recipe)
Tomato Sauce and Tomato Paste
Tomato sauce forms the base of the sloppy joe mixture. A small amount of tomato paste intensifies the flavor.
Maple Syrup
Traditional sloppy joes have a slightly sweet taste. Maple syrup provides that balance. ( You can skip if you want to avoid extra sugar)
Soy Sauce
Soy sauce adds umami. Tamari works well for a gluten-free version.
Mustard, Smoked Paprika and Other Seasoning
Mustard contributes a little tanginess. Smoked paprika adds a hint of smokiness that complements the lentils. Black pepper, chili powder, and oregano bring everything together. I don't add additional salt but you can always adjust per taste.
How to Make Lentil Sloppy Joes on the Stovetop
Step 1: Sauté the vegetables: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions and bell peppers. Cook for about 3 minutes. Add garlic. Cook for another 30 seconds.
Step 2: Prepare the sauce: Add tomato sauce and tomato paste. Stir well. Mix in maple syrup, soy sauce, mustard, smoked paprika, oregano, chili powder, and black pepper.
Step 3: Add the lentils: Add the cooked lentils. Stir until everything is evenly coated.
Step 4: Simmer: Cook for 5 to 7 minutes. The sauce will thicken. The flavors will deepen.
Step 5: Serve: Spoon the filling onto toasted sandwich buns. Add your favorite toppings. Enjoy immediately.
Instant Pot Lentil Sloppy Joes
The Instant Pot simplifies dinner even more.
Turn on the sauté setting. Add onions and bell peppers. Cook for 2 minutes. Add garlic.
Add rinsed brown lentils, tomato sauce, tomato paste, maple syrup, soy sauce, mustard, seasonings, and vegetable broth.
Close the lid. Set the valve to the sealing position. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
Allow a natural pressure release for 5 minutes. Release the remaining pressure carefully. Stir well. If the mixture seems thin, simmer for a few minutes using the sauté setting. Serve on toasted buns.
Pro Tips for the Best Vegan Sloppy Joes
Don't overcook the lentils
Mushy lentils create a paste-like texture. Cook them until they are tender but still hold their shape.
Toast the buns
A lightly toasted bun prevents sogginess. It also adds a pleasant crunch.
Let the sauce thicken
Allowing the mixture to simmer for a few extra minutes improves the texture.
Adjust the sweetness
Some people enjoy sweeter sloppy joes. Others prefer a tangier flavor. Taste and adjust before serving.
Delicious Topping Ideas
Customize your sandwich with extra toppings.
- Avocado slices
- Pickled onions
- Coleslaw, dill pickles, Jalapeños
- Vegan cheese
- Crispy onions
What to Serve With Lentil Sloppy Joes
Complete the meal with easy side dishes.
Some favorites include:
Meal Prep and Storage Tips
This recipe is ideal for meal preparation.
Refrigerator
Store leftovers in an airtight container. They will stay fresh for up to 5 days.
Freezer
Freeze the filling for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before freezing.
Reheating
Warm leftovers in a skillet over medium heat. You can also reheat them in the microwave. Add a splash of water if needed.
Variations
Make it spicy: Add cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños.
Add extra vegetables: Finely chopped carrots, mushrooms, or zucchini work well.
Make it gluten-free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce. Serve on gluten-free buns.
Add more protein: Mix in chopped walnuts or hemp hearts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which lentils are best for sloppy joes?
Brown and green lentils are the best options. They hold their shape and create a hearty texture.
Can I use canned lentils?
Yes. Drain and rinse them before adding them to the recipe.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely. The filling tastes even better the next day.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Yes. Freeze individual portions for quick and easy meals.
These Lentil Sloppy Joes prove that comfort food can also be wholesome. They are savory, filling, and surprisingly satisfying. Whether you make them on the stovetop or in the Instant Pot, this recipe delivers a protein-rich dinner in just 20 minutes.
Serve them for family dinners, meal prep lunches, or casual gatherings. One bite, and you'll understand why this easy vegan recipe has become a favorite in my kitchen.
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📖 Recipe
Lentil Sloppy Joes
Ingredients
For the Lentil Sloppy Joe Filling
- 1 Tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion finely diced (about 1 cup)
- 1 medium red bell pepper finely diced (about 1 cup)
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 3 cups cooked brown or green lentils or 1½ cup uncooked lentils
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 2 Tablespoons Tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon low sodium soy sauce or tamari for a gluten-free option
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ¼ cup water or vegetable broth if needed
For Serving
- 6 hamburger buns
Instructions
How to Make Lentil Sloppy Joes on the Stovetop
- Step 1: Sauté the vegetables: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions and bell peppers. Cook for about 3 minutes. Add garlic. Cook for another 30 seconds.
- Step 2: Prepare the sauce: Add tomato sauce and tomato paste. Stir well. Mix in maple syrup, soy sauce, mustard, smoked paprika, oregano, chili powder, and black pepper.
- Step 3: Add the lentils: Add the cooked lentils. Stir until everything is evenly coated.
- Step 4: Simmer: Cook for 5 to 7 minutes. The sauce will thicken. The flavors will deepen.
- Step 5: Serve: Spoon the filling onto toasted sandwich buns. Add your favorite toppings. Enjoy immediately.
How to Make Instant Pot Lentil Sloppy Joes
- Turn on the sauté setting. Add onions and bell peppers. Cook for 2 minutes. Add garlic.
- Add rinsed brown lentils, tomato sauce, tomato paste, maple syrup, soy sauce, mustard, seasonings, and vegetable broth.
- Close the lid. Set the valve to the sealing position. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
- Allow a natural pressure release for 5 minutes. Release the remaining pressure carefully. Stir well. If the mixture seems thin, simmer for a few minutes using the sauté setting. Serve on toasted buns.
Notes
Meal Prep and Storage Tips
This recipe is ideal for meal preparation. Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container. They will stay fresh for up to 5 days. Freezer: Freeze the filling for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before freezing. Reheating: Warm leftovers in a skillet over medium heat. You can also reheat them in the microwave. Add a splash of water if needed.Nutrition
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