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You are here: Home / Physical Kitchness / Whole30 Sloppy Joe Bowls

Whole30 Sloppy Joe Bowls

24 Oct

Does anyone else laugh when they hear the term ‘sloppy joe’? Tell me you imagine a hairnet-wearing Adam Sandler as the lunch lady. Sloppy Joe’s are fun. Period. What’s MORE fun is eating them bowl style, in the form of these healthy, whole30 sloppy joe bowls.

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Sloppy Joes!! Your childhood favorite in a healthier, whole30 compliant version. You'll never go back to your old sloppy joe recipe ever again!

Those fun sandwiches you grew up eating suddenly have taken an adult approach, without losing their coolness. Because I really can’t afford to lose any more cool on my coolness chart. At first it was turning 30, then having two kids, then rarely doing my hair and makeup, THEN driving a mommy mobile (it’s not a minivan…but still).

I’m not knocking minivans – I have friends that swear they are the greatest thing since electricity. But I just can’t do it. I’ll stick with my SUV, unless they make a mini van with flames down the sides and pink tinted windows. The again, that’s kind of creepy, pedophile material. See? Even when I dream about being cool it fails miserably. But when I dreamed up a bowl of sloppy joe goodness, that is whole30 compliant and hearty enough for the biggest of appetites, I said to myself, “I may not be cool, but I can cook – and that’s good enough for my husband to never leave me and for my kids to survive.” Especially when I serve these Whole30 sloppy joe bowls.

Whole30 Sloppy Joe Bowls

A family dinner favorite - these whole30 sloppy joe bowls are SO easy and make awesome leftovers too!

Yes it’s healthy, gluten-free, dairy-free, refined-sugar free, made with all real-food ingredients, blah blah blah. But the main point is that these are bringing the fun back to eating well. Cause anything in a bowl kind of screams ‘fancy dinner rebel’.

Which reminds me – I bought new, FUN bowls. Our ‘everyday’ bowls are these square, sophisticated-looking things. Ummmm since when did I become sophisticated?! So one day I felt compelled to buy some red plastic cheapies that brought me back to eating cereal and ice cream as a kid. I should have photographed these whole30 sloppy joe bowls with those beauties. But I opted for my plain white ‘food photography prop’ dinnerware. Yes, I have a whole cabinet devoted to blog dishes.

This dinner that’s sure to please everyone (including the kids) is made with simple ingredients that pack big flavor. Ground beef, tomato sauce, green peppers, and dates combine beautifully to top warm baked potatoes, creating a new take on a classic favorite.

I know what you’re thinking – DATES?! The dates sweeten the sauce a bit, cutting the acidity of the tomatoes and mustard. A must when making Whole 30 sloppy joe bowls.

All natural ingredients, packed with protein, and delicious. Paleo, Whole30 Sloppy Joe's!

Time to whip up these whole30 sloppy joe bowls for your next family dinner. Fancy bowls optional, coolness necessary.

Looking for more whole30 dinner recipes the family will love? Try a few of these whole30 compliant dinners:

Potato and Fennel Baked Chicken Casserole
Whole30 Slow Cooker Pork Carnitas
Herby 30-Minute Chicken and Brussels Sprouts Bake
A1 Inspired Slow Cooker Beef Roast
Paleo Tomato Basil Beef Goulash with Eggplant
Hearty Midwest Vegetable Stew
Clean & Delicious Green Pepper Steak
Turmeric Balsamic Beef Over Roasted Red Peppers
Parsnip Leek Butternut Squash Soup

But for now, we shall get sloppy…

Super clean and whole30 compliant sloppy joes in BOWL form! You'll love this recipe - a family favorite

Print

Whole30 Sloppy Joe Bowls

Sloppy Joes!! Your childhood favorite in a healthier, whole30 compliant version. You'll never go back to your old sloppy joe recipe ever again!

★★★★★

5 from 37 reviews

A delicious and kid-friendly recipe on a classic – these Whole30 Sloppy Joe Bowls are the perfect healthy comfort food. Easy to make, easy to devour.

  • Author: Physical Kitchness
  • Yield: 4-6 servings 1x
Scale

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1/2 cup chopped onion
  • 3/4 cup chopped green pepper
  • 1 8oz can tomato sauce
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon dijon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon minced garlic
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 5 medjool dates, pitted
  • 2/3 cup water (reserved)
  • russet potatoes (one per person)

Instructions

  1. Brown the ground beef in a large pan over medium-high heat and add the onion. Drain any excess grease
  2. Reduce the heat to medium and add the green pepper, apple cider vinegar, dijon mustard, garlic, dried parsley, and salt. Mix well
  3. Meanwhile, in a separate small pot, bring 2/3 cup of water to a boil and add the dates. Boil 30-60 seconds, just long enough to soften the dates. Remove the dates from the pot (reserving the water for later)
  4. Place the dates into a food processor or blender, then add tomato sauce and tomato paste. Blend well then add to the ground beef
  5. Add 2 tablespoons of the reserved date water to the pan of beef
  6. Wash and dry a russet potato. Poke the potato with a fork or knife a few times, then microwave for 5-7 minutes, until potato is soft inside
  7. Serve sloppy joe mixture on top of baked russet potato and garnish with green onions

 

One of the best Whole30 recipes I've ever made. A childhood favorite in a healthier, whole30 compliant version. You'll never go back to your old sloppy joe recipe ever again!

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Chrissa
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202 Comments Filed Under: Dinner, Lunch, Physical Kitchness, Recipes, Toddler Approved, Whole30 Tagged With: beef, paleo, whole30[heart_this]

About Chrissa

I'm Chrissa - a lover of cooking, hater of spiders, fitness enthusiast, red lipstick wearer, mom and wife. Here you will find healthy recipes the family will love, step-by-step workout tutorials, meal planning guides and wellness tips.

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Comments

  1. Kayla @ Blondes Have More Runb says

    October 24, 2016 at 4:35 am

    Oh how I miss sloppy joes!! I love the idea of serving it in a potato! I’m definitely trying this sometime!

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      October 29, 2016 at 2:35 pm

      I hope you do Kayla! Sloppy joes are such a fav!

      Reply
    • Sunny D says

      April 13, 2017 at 11:09 am

      These sound awesome. Might be good over some cauliflower rice.

      Reply
      • Chrissa says

        April 13, 2017 at 1:14 pm

        Thanks Sunny! YES I’ve totally done that with leftovers. Really good!

        Reply
  2. Blair says

    October 24, 2016 at 4:45 am

    Love the idea of using dates to sweeten the mix a bit. Sounds delicious!!!

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      October 29, 2016 at 2:34 pm

      It’s a great way to sweeten without the brown sugar typically used!! You’re kiddos will likey too!

      Reply
  3. Allie @ Miss Allie's Kitchen says

    October 24, 2016 at 5:29 am

    LOVE this! Seriously going in my meal rotation – my boyfriend would love it!!!

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      October 29, 2016 at 2:32 pm

      It’s totes a ‘man meal’. I hope he loves it Allie!

      Reply
  4. Rebecca @ Strength and Sunshine says

    October 24, 2016 at 5:30 am

    I used to LOVE sloppy joes when I was younger! Good old Manwich on a soft potato bun….my mom’s specialty 😉

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      October 29, 2016 at 2:27 pm

      YES! I grew up on that stuff too! Every mom’s specialty!

      Reply
  5. Brandy says

    October 24, 2016 at 5:50 am

    This is brilliant! I’ve been gluten free for 19 months and love when I find dishes that I don’t have to make a jillion tweaks to in order to eat – I grew up eating sloppy joes and I did’t realize I missed it until I read this post.

    ★★★★★

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      October 29, 2016 at 2:26 pm

      RIGHT?! Same – I need EASY dishes that my kids will eat too. This one will be sure to please Brandy!

      Reply
  6. Rachel Ritlop says

    October 24, 2016 at 5:53 am

    MMM Chrissa!! These sloppy joe bowls sound insanely delicious!

    Rachel | http://www.theconfusedmillennial.com

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      October 29, 2016 at 2:20 pm

      You gotta them ’em girlfriend! Thanks 🙂

      Reply
  7. Deborah @ Confessions of a mother runner says

    October 24, 2016 at 5:56 am

    I have a veggie version of sloppy joes and I like the idea of making them in a baked potato will have to try that.

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      October 29, 2016 at 2:19 pm

      Oh I bet that would be really good too. Good idea Deborah!

      Reply
  8. candy says

    October 24, 2016 at 6:07 am

    Placing the sloppy joe mix on top of the potato is a great idea, we do this with chili and several other dishes to make the meal go further.

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      October 29, 2016 at 2:19 pm

      YES chili on potatoes is amazing too!

      Reply
  9. Kat says

    October 24, 2016 at 6:14 am

    Dates? DATES?! Is there nothing those little cockroaches can’t do? Color me intrigued with this recipe here girl! I’ve totally done the sloppy joe stuffed potato thing before and it was amazing, but my sloppy joe was definitely never made with dates! This sounds amazing.

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      October 29, 2016 at 2:18 pm

      HA cockroaches! That is SO funny. YES girl try them with dates! Life changing 🙂

      Reply
      • Maricela Martinez says

        September 13, 2017 at 12:38 pm

        Where can I find these dates? Is there another name for them?

        Reply
        • Chrissa says

          September 25, 2017 at 9:48 am

          Most grocery stores have them within their product section. Medjool dates are called just that 🙂

          Reply
  10. Kristine-Bites of Flavor says

    October 24, 2016 at 7:05 am

    Meat and potatoes?! Sounds like a dream! Great recipe. Sounds delicious and easy to make!

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      October 29, 2016 at 2:14 pm

      Pretty much the story of my life!! I grew up on meat and potatoes so this is totally THE meal for me!

      Reply
  11. Carmy says

    October 24, 2016 at 8:04 am

    I love love love sloppy joes! I actually have some beef in the freezer right now that I think I’m going to use to make this tonight.

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      October 29, 2016 at 2:12 pm

      My garage freezer is always stashed with frozen meat – precisely for meals like this 😉

      Reply
  12. Cara says

    October 24, 2016 at 9:32 am

    This looks amazingly delicious and I really want to make this tonight! Looks soo good!

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      October 29, 2016 at 2:09 pm

      I bet the kids would like it too Cara! Let me know if you guys try!

      Reply
  13. Sarah- A Whisk and Two Wands says

    October 24, 2016 at 9:55 am

    Never been a huge sloppy joe fan, not even a veg version because of the soggy bun. I think would love a veg version of this in a potato as would my family! Love recreating classics, this is such a great idea!

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      October 29, 2016 at 2:08 pm

      Soggy buns are no bueno!!! Yes definitely try this with a tater!

      Reply
  14. Stacey says

    October 24, 2016 at 12:24 pm

    This is on my meal planning list for this week! Yay sloppy joes. Loved them as a kid. I will sub beef broth for the water, as I have a jar of thawed broth needing use ASAP. So excited for this!! May even cheat with some cheese. Don’t tell

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      October 29, 2016 at 2:08 pm

      I’m SOOOO glad you liked them (based on your text message) 🙂 Did you try with the beef broth?

      Reply
  15. Liz @ I Heart Vegetables says

    October 24, 2016 at 1:23 pm

    My dad would love this! My mom recent made a meal with meatless crumbles and they were good! Maybe I’ll try this with those 🙂

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      October 29, 2016 at 2:07 pm

      Oh bet these would be good with these meatless crumbles too! Great call!

      Reply
  16. Mel says

    October 24, 2016 at 2:27 pm

    What a great idea! Love your take on the sloppy joe!

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      October 29, 2016 at 1:50 pm

      Thanks so much Mel!

      Reply
  17. Maggie Unzueta says

    October 24, 2016 at 3:24 pm

    These sloppy joe bowls looks SO yummy. Must make them for dinner soon.

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      October 29, 2016 at 8:15 am

      GOOD CALL! I think that’s a terrific idea Maggie!

      Reply
  18. Lauren says

    October 24, 2016 at 4:44 pm

    I really want to try your recipe! I’ve only ever had sloppy joe out of a can when I was living at home still lol…eww…this looks SO much better!

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      October 29, 2016 at 8:14 am

      Oh my gosh so funny – we did canned sloppy joes too! BLEH! Yes yes Lauren, try this. I think you will likey 🙂

      Reply
  19. Abby says

    October 24, 2016 at 6:12 pm

    This looks great! I love sloppy joes. I would have never thought of putting it with a baked potato.

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      October 29, 2016 at 8:13 am

      I mean, who doesn’t love sloppy joes, right?!

      Reply
  20. Chrissy says

    October 24, 2016 at 7:18 pm

    Love this post. Funny and a great recipe to liven up and make healthy sloppy joes. You go, girl!

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      October 29, 2016 at 8:12 am

      Thanks Chrissy! The classics, reinvented are always the best!

      Reply
  21. Abbey Sharp says

    October 24, 2016 at 8:42 pm

    Hahaha not only did I have a good laugh at this post, but dates and ground meat? Nailed it.
    Looks awesome. <3

    ★★★★★

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      October 29, 2016 at 8:02 am

      Thanks Abbey! An unlikely combo but it’s AWESOME!

      Reply
  22. Nicole Parise says

    October 25, 2016 at 3:25 am

    This looks so good! Definitely need to try this on a weekend 🙂
    xx nicole
    http://www.nicoleparise.com

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      October 29, 2016 at 7:58 am

      I hope you do. It’s a great weekend meal, especially during the fall!

      Reply
  23. Vanessa K @Tapestry Chronicles says

    October 25, 2016 at 8:27 am

    Yasss, this looks amazing! I’m a sucker for sloppy joes on a buttery kaiser roll, but this looks amazeballs. I’ll have to give this a go, especially because I have potatoes and green peppers I need to use up 🙂 Thanks for the recipe!

    ★★★★★

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      October 29, 2016 at 7:57 am

      It’s hard NOT to love sloppy joes on a big fat ball of bread, but this is seriously just as yummy!!! Thanks for stopping by Vanessa!

      Reply
  24. Heather Denniston says

    October 25, 2016 at 8:54 am

    That looks so great, Chrissa. Your photographs are looking stunning. And congratulations on all your growth on Pinterest!

    ★★★★★

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      October 29, 2016 at 7:52 am

      Heather, you’re like my little virtual cheerleader. Thanks so much friend!

      Reply
  25. Allyson Brandt says

    October 25, 2016 at 11:42 am

    What a clever idea. I’m actually making sloppy joes for dinner tonight (my fave recipe is from 100 Dats of Real Food)…but they’re definitely going in a potato instead of on bread.

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      October 29, 2016 at 7:52 am

      Thanks so much Allyson! I need to check out the recipe you make – I love seeing how others create the ‘classics’

      Reply
  26. Courtney Patterson says

    October 25, 2016 at 12:16 pm

    This looks amazing! I love a meal like this on a cold night. It just screams comfort to me. Pinning and trying for sure!

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      October 29, 2016 at 7:51 am

      YES!!!! Cold nights need warm, hearty dinners. Thanks for the pin love Courtney!

      Reply
  27. GiGi Eats says

    October 25, 2016 at 12:48 pm

    I’ll crack open a sweet potato and give this a GO GO GO!

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      October 29, 2016 at 7:48 am

      Someone else said that on Facebook. I need to try that version – sounds amazeballs!

      Reply
  28. Esther says

    October 25, 2016 at 12:49 pm

    Oh my husband would love me even more if I made this for him! Pinning to make ASAP!
    Love the bowls! So classy!

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      October 29, 2016 at 7:46 am

      Yes leverage that love girlfriend! I think it’s a good idea and a good strategy 😉

      Reply
  29. Bella says

    October 25, 2016 at 2:12 pm

    Yummy!!! my mouth is watering this looks so good

    http://xoxobella.com

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      October 27, 2016 at 3:48 pm

      Thank you Bella!

      Reply
  30. Mikki says

    October 25, 2016 at 2:23 pm

    How fun is that! Love simple, yummy dishes like this!

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      October 27, 2016 at 3:47 pm

      Thanks Mikki! Yes, fun and tasty for sure!

      Reply
  31. Angela Tolsma says

    October 25, 2016 at 2:51 pm

    Oh I haven’t had sloppy joes in forever! This sounds delicious!

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      October 27, 2016 at 3:46 pm

      Sounds like it’s time to add it to the weekly rotation 😉

      Reply
  32. suzanne says

    October 25, 2016 at 4:03 pm

    Sloppy Joes totally take me back to my childhood, and these look SO GOOD. Pinning for sure 🙂

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      October 27, 2016 at 3:44 pm

      Thanks so much for the pin love Suzanne! Childhood dishes are the best – always always a winner!

      Reply
  33. Lori says

    October 25, 2016 at 6:22 pm

    We LOVE sloppy joes! Thanks so much for providing a guilt-free way to indulge in them! I am trying to get a bit healthier in my cooking so this will definitely be helpful. Pinning now!

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      October 27, 2016 at 3:44 pm

      My pleasure! I’m so glad you found this recipe Lori! Indulge away – these are so squeaky clean that guilt is non-existent!

      Reply
  34. Greta says

    October 25, 2016 at 7:24 pm

    This is making my mouth water. Looks so yummy!

    Greta | http://www.gretahollar.com

    ★★★★★

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      October 27, 2016 at 3:41 pm

      Thanks Greta!!

      Reply
  35. Joanie @ ZagLeft says

    October 26, 2016 at 4:15 pm

    I would never have thought to use dates to sweeten the chili – what a great idea! Looks absolutely delicious.

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      October 27, 2016 at 3:40 pm

      YES! Such a great way to sweeten a dish without brown sugar that’s in the traditional recipe!

      Reply
  36. shar says

    October 26, 2016 at 4:59 pm

    AH*MAZE*BALLS* !!

    ★★★★★

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      October 27, 2016 at 3:39 pm

      RIGHT?! So yummy!

      Reply
  37. Jennifer @ Fit Nana says

    November 1, 2016 at 10:30 am

    OMG. Topping a tater with meat is probably the best. thing. ever. YUM!

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      November 6, 2016 at 8:26 am

      It’s quintessential the meat and potatoes kind of meal we all grew up on, right?!

      Reply
  38. Gretchen Williams says

    November 16, 2016 at 12:14 pm

    Chrissa – this is the most amazing recipe! Thank you!!! My husband had two helpings. So delicious and easy to make. It was a nice change from grilled meats and a side of steamed vegetables.

    ★★★★★

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      November 20, 2016 at 3:10 pm

      Oh Gretchen! You made my day. I’m so glad you and the hubs loved it! Thanks for the feedback!

      Reply
  39. Holly says

    January 2, 2017 at 9:25 am

    This looks great! Any recommendations on how to sub out dijon mustard? We’ve got some haters in this household. 🙂

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      January 3, 2017 at 2:02 pm

      Hey Holly! The dijon gives it just a slight tangy flavor, but you can totally omit if the haters gonna hate 😉 Just may yield a sweeter tasting mix!

      Reply
  40. Rachel says

    January 3, 2017 at 10:14 am

    This was delicious!!! Thank you for the recipe!

    ★★★★★

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      January 3, 2017 at 1:59 pm

      SO glad you liked it! Thanks Rachel!

      Reply
  41. Jana says

    January 6, 2017 at 6:51 am

    The recipe says 1 can tomato sauce…..I can buy cans in many different sizes. Are you referring to the small can that is maybe 6 oz or the can that is 15 oz?

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      January 6, 2017 at 7:14 am

      Ah super good question! Sorry, should have included that #mombrain. 1 8oz can of tomato sauce 🙂

      Reply
  42. Tamara says

    January 8, 2017 at 10:44 am

    Oh my gosh!!! That was DELICIOUS!! My whole family loved it! Which is great since I’m forcing them on this whole 30 journey with me! Ha! This will be a new regular meal at my house! Thank you for sharing!

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      January 8, 2017 at 3:48 pm

      WHOO HOO! I’m so glad! We love this meal too (also forcing my hubby to eat Whole30 hehehe). Thanks so much for the feedback Tamara!

      Reply
  43. Jill says

    January 14, 2017 at 11:29 am

    I am BLOWN AWAY with how delicious this recipe is! I subbed red bell pepper for the green… agrees with my tummy better. I’m absolutely THRILLED that I made the decision to double the recipe! Now I have 2 sloppy joe meals in the freezer for a night when I don’t have the time to cook! My 14 year old son likes it too! Adding this to my whole30 meal rotation for sure! Thank you!

    ★★★★★

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      January 14, 2017 at 1:30 pm

      Oh Jill, this made my day! I mean, I LOVE this recipe (obvi) but hearing that others do too – including the kids just makes me want to bust out a high kick and superstar pose. Thanks so much!

      Reply
  44. Kathryn says

    January 20, 2017 at 12:53 pm

    Hi Chrissa! Question. I’m having a really hard time sourcing these dates, any other recommendations?? Thanks!

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      January 21, 2017 at 9:56 am

      Hmmm good question! Can you find packaged dates in the same section as raisins and other dried fruit? That might be the best alternative to fresh medjool dates. I’ve also heard people have omitted the dates completely, which wouldn’t yield a sweeter sloppy joe but would still work! Let me know what you come up with!

      Reply
  45. Jamee says

    February 24, 2017 at 3:34 pm

    I just made these!!! Yummy yummy. Its making the whole30 a whole lot easier. Thanks for sharing. ?

    ★★★★★

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      February 26, 2017 at 3:46 pm

      Thrilled that you loved this Jamee! Thanks for stopping by!

      Reply
  46. Janelle says

    February 24, 2017 at 10:24 pm

    LOVE these!! We have them in our rotation! I’ve used the recipe several times. Thank you so much for the idea!! We cam across your recipe while doing Whole30 but I am also Gluten Free and pretty much a whole food junky so I can’t tell you how much we enjoy and savor it!

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      February 26, 2017 at 3:46 pm

      YAY this made my day! SUUUUUUPER happy you loved this recipe Janelle. Thanks so much for stopping by to let me know! Means a lot 🙂

      Reply
  47. amber says

    March 5, 2017 at 4:20 am

    Hi!
    I have Severe Irritable Bowel Syndrome and follow a NO fodmap diet very strictly, so my poor fiance was looking for more meals with flavor – I saw this and rejoiced hoping to appease his palate – I omitted the onions and even the dates and he STILL loved it, so THANK YOU! This was easy to make, and semi-easy on my stomach – not sure if it’s the tomato sauce or the fact I stuffed myself 😉
    Awesome recipe!

    ★★★★★

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      March 5, 2017 at 8:30 pm

      Oh Amber – this makes me so so so happy! Thrilled you both loved it and you found a new staple for your very strict regiment! Hugs to you girl!

      Reply
  48. Maggie says

    April 1, 2017 at 12:39 pm

    I fixed this for my hubby and me. He is a tough one to go for “healthy” meals. However, he loved theses sloppy joes with baked potatoes! I sure didn’t tell him there were dates in it!! That would have been a deal breaker for him! Lol Thanks for the great recipe!!

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      April 1, 2017 at 2:06 pm

      Whoot whoot! So happy to hear that Maggie!

      Reply
  49. Ande says

    April 16, 2017 at 7:51 am

    white potatos are technically not allowed on a strict whole 30 but I bet this would be awesome on a sweet potato or over cauliflower rice! I’m so excited to try it! Especially since this might be the one recipe I’ve found that I know I could get my husband to eat with me! Lol Thanks for creating this!

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      April 17, 2017 at 9:26 am

      Hi Ande – thanks for reaching out. Whole30 has changed it’s rules about white potatoes, and they are allowed in the program now. But YES I’ve seen readers throw this on sweet potatoes and cauliflower rice too! I would even venture to say it would be yummy on zucchini noodles as well. Great ideas!

      Reply
  50. Lara says

    April 26, 2017 at 7:07 pm

    This is my go to recepie for Whole30. THANK YOU!!!!

    ★★★★★

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      April 27, 2017 at 11:17 am

      SOOOOO happy to hear that!

      Reply
    • Chrissa says

      May 5, 2017 at 10:06 pm

      SO SO SO awesome to hear! Thanks Lara!

      Reply
  51. Shannon says

    May 6, 2017 at 4:11 pm

    Made these for me and my hubby tonight on our 6th day of Whole30/Paleo and our first Saturday night! We LOVED IT! Such a satisfying meal – the recipe is perfect! It reminded us of our childhood with the perfect sweetness from the dates. My husband said he would eat the meat mixture by the bowlful! Cheers!

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      May 8, 2017 at 3:51 pm

      Rock on! Love it and so happy it was a hit Shannon!

      Reply
  52. Bev says

    May 8, 2017 at 2:14 pm

    I made this for dinner tonight – it was sooooooo good!! My dh and I are huge fans of the Sloppy Joe and are on day 15 of Whole 30. This was the change from baked chicken that I needed. My only tweak was to add 1 Tbs of Cajun seasoning and about 1/8 C of Tessamae’s compliant ketchup. Thank you so much for sharing it. It will be on our regular rotation going forward.

    ★★★★★

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      May 8, 2017 at 3:49 pm

      Awesome! So glad you liked it Bev! Appreciate the feedback!

      Reply
  53. Robin Fischer says

    May 9, 2017 at 3:42 pm

    This is a great substitute recipe for an old favorite! We’ve tried our share of comfort food “hacks” and this is definitely one of the best. I don’t think anyone would know. Grateful for this sub in of a family comfort!

    ★★★★★

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      May 14, 2017 at 9:06 pm

      So happy to hear that Robin! Thanks for the sweet note!

      Reply
  54. Kim says

    May 16, 2017 at 6:08 am

    I didn’t read through all the comments so I don’t know if this has been asked, but would regular yellow mustard work in this? I’m doing whole30 and I only have the dijon mustard with wine, so that’s a no go for me. Thanks so much! I can’t wait to try this!

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      May 21, 2017 at 9:42 am

      Hmmm I’m not sure? I don’t see why not – it may not yield the same tangy flavor profile but I bet it would still be delicious!

      Reply
  55. emily says

    May 16, 2017 at 9:52 am

    hi! i was wondering if instead of groud beef you could use ground turkey? i am currently on a new food guide and have to limit red meat. thanks. this is new and I am looking for ideas and reciepes.

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      May 21, 2017 at 9:42 am

      Yes absolutely!

      Reply
  56. Erin says

    May 21, 2017 at 8:32 am

    Delicious! I made it vegan by substituting gardein crumbles for the ground beef. If anyone else does that, my suggestion is to saute the veggies a bit before adding the “meat”, as the crumbles just need to be warmed up to eat. I also followed someone else’s suggestion and used fire roasted tomatoes, instead of pureeing the dates. Granted I haven’t had it with the dates, but there was plenty of flavor without them.

    ★★★★★

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      May 21, 2017 at 9:30 am

      Great to know! I love how you improvised here!! Thanks Erin.

      Reply
  57. Lauren says

    May 27, 2017 at 10:20 am

    I already have a jar of date paste in the fridge I whipped up. How much of it should I use to equal the 5 dates? Thanks in advance!

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      May 29, 2017 at 8:45 pm

      I have never used date paste, I have to be honest! Does it give any sort of conversions?! I would start with a tablespoon and just taste your way to see if you want more for sweetness 😉

      Reply
  58. Lindsey says

    June 11, 2017 at 12:13 pm

    Thank you for this recipe! It is amazing! My mom made a sweet sloppy joe, which I loved, so I a little bit had my doubts when I started this, but wow! This is absolutely a keeper. I used red and orange bell peppers because that is what I had, which may have slightly enhanced the sweetness, but I’m sure it is every bit as good with geeen bell peppers. Thanks again!

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      June 11, 2017 at 9:07 pm

      Hey Lindsey – SO glad you liked it!!!

      Reply
  59. Sara says

    June 17, 2017 at 12:47 pm

    Seriously amazing!! I was skeptical because of the dates, not sure how I feel about them yet, but this was well worth the risk!! It wasn’t as easy as popping open the can of Manwich, but it was close enough for me to make this again!! Thank you!!

    ★★★★★

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      June 19, 2017 at 8:52 am

      Whoo hoo! So glad you liked this meal Sara!

      Reply
  60. Jasmien Plate says

    July 11, 2017 at 7:22 am

    I loved this idea. I didn’t know sloppy joes, but read about them in a discussion group with mostly American members. I did an adaptation of your recipe, that I would love to share on my tiny blog, but more than half of my 20 readers are Dutch speaking (my little blog is bilingual). Would you mind if I linked to you, but posted my take on your dish as well, in both languages? 😉

    ★★★★★

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      July 17, 2017 at 9:24 pm

      Sure! As long as you site the source and link back to my website, I’m cool with that Jasmien. Thanks for checking!

      Reply
  61. Faith says

    August 29, 2017 at 12:24 pm

    I have made this recipe at least 10 times, but I sub the potato for a sweet potato! It is SO good. It tastes like dessert during my Whole30 and I love it when I’m off too. It’s husband and baby approved! Thank you for such an amazing, easy recipe!

    Tonight I am making it for my parents and they do not have dates, so I am going to sub honey. Wish me luck!

    ★★★★★

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      September 3, 2017 at 5:44 pm

      It’s my pleasure Faith! I bet honey will taste awesome too. Enjoy!

      Reply
  62. Shaina says

    September 4, 2017 at 6:23 pm

    I’m on round 2, day 4 of Whole30 and tried this recipe for the first time – and it’s exceptional!!! I never comment on recipes but this one was too good to NOT comment on!

    ★★★★★

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      September 25, 2017 at 9:51 am

      SO glad! And thanks for taking the time to share!!

      Reply
  63. Ashley F. says

    September 20, 2017 at 3:38 pm

    Chrissa- these are amazing!!! I was so lazy while I was cooking them and they still turned out perfect! Since I didn’t have some of the ingredients at home, I improvised- I ended up using regular mustard, my own marinara instead of the tomato sauce and paste, and didn’t measure a dang thing. This recipe is foolproof and SO delicious. Thanks!!

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      September 25, 2017 at 9:43 am

      WOW great subs! Thanks for posting this!

      Reply
  64. Gayle Grady says

    October 10, 2017 at 12:25 pm

    These look amazing! I use sweet potatoes for tacos, gotta love salty and sweet! Now I am going to try this with a russet!
    Thank you!

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      October 15, 2017 at 8:37 pm

      That’s great! Thanks Gayle!

      Reply
  65. Amanda C says

    October 11, 2017 at 11:23 am

    I didn’t have a compliant Dijon Mustard So, I substitued yellow mustard. I also didn’t have any dates so I added some finely chopped celery and carrots! Yum! The carrots gave it just a hint of sweetness.

    ★★★★★

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      October 15, 2017 at 8:36 pm

      Nice way to improvise!

      Reply
  66. Janice says

    October 15, 2017 at 9:28 am

    We’ve been trying to cut down on refined sugars in our diet so I figured I had nothing to lose in trying this recipe out. If we didn’t like it, the recipe would simply be cast into the trash with the myriad of other healthy alternative recipes I’ve tried in the past. I really dislike dates. I actually loath them. So, it was with a great deal of reluctance that I tried this recipe. My entire family was surprised at how much MORE we liked this recipe than the traditional recipe I’ve used for 35 years. EVERYBODY LOVED it. It was a bit tangy. Certainly sweet enough, but not overly sweet. And I could’t taste the dates. This is now my go to sloppy joe recipe and I’m telling everybody about it! It’s fantastic!

    ★★★★★

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      October 15, 2017 at 8:32 pm

      WOW that’s such a great story and huge compliment! So glad you and your family enjoyed them Janice!

      Reply
  67. Ashley says

    October 19, 2017 at 3:29 pm

    Love this recipe! I’m making it for the fourth time right now. We eat it over sweet potatoes. Thanks for sharing it.

    ★★★★★

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      December 4, 2017 at 3:00 pm

      I love it over sweet potatoes too! Thanks Ashley!

      Reply
  68. Libby says

    November 30, 2017 at 12:18 pm

    I made these and they were excellent! Definitely a Whole30 staple.

    ★★★★★

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      December 4, 2017 at 2:38 pm

      So glad you loved these!

      Reply
  69. Vanessa says

    December 21, 2017 at 8:08 pm

    I unfortunately dont have a food processor and dont care for dates, what might I be able to replace this ingredient with?

    Thanks in advance 🙂

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      December 31, 2017 at 2:13 pm

      You could try honey! Won’t be Whole30 compliant but still very tasty!

      Reply
  70. Meagan says

    December 30, 2017 at 11:50 am

    Do you have any recommendations for a substitution for the date for those with date allergies (as well as similar pitted fruits)?

    Thanks!

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      December 31, 2017 at 2:09 pm

      The only sub I think would work would be honey. Although it’s not Whole30 compliant, I think the taste would still be perfect! I’m not sure the ratio, I’d probably start tablespoon by tablespoon and taste as you go!

      Reply
  71. Catherine @ Ten Thousand Hour Mama says

    January 5, 2018 at 9:34 pm

    I just found this recipe and am making it this week. I’m pretty sure it’ll be approved even by my father in law, who is visiting!

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      January 18, 2018 at 11:39 am

      Whoo hoo! I hope it was!

      Reply
  72. John says

    January 8, 2018 at 3:57 pm

    BOOM! This recipe is a winner. Thank you, thank you!

    ★★★★★

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      January 18, 2018 at 11:37 am

      You’re so welcome!

      Reply
  73. RLake says

    January 13, 2018 at 10:22 pm

    This recipe is not Whole 30 because Potatoes are NOT allowed!

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      January 14, 2018 at 6:25 am

      Potatoes are absolutely allowed on the Whole30 program, both white potatoes and sweet potatoes.

      Reply
  74. Deanna Nolan says

    January 17, 2018 at 11:52 am

    Hi ! I love this meal. I make it every few weeks because its such a hit. I was wondering if you have ever made it with groumd chicken. I wanted to make this meal for a friend who is having surgery but she doesnt eat red meat. Thanks for your help!

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      January 18, 2018 at 11:25 am

      I would probably suggest ground turkey over chicken. I feel turkey is a little more flavorful when subbing for beef.

      Reply
  75. Amelia says

    January 17, 2018 at 5:29 pm

    Made these during meal prep this weekend and just ate them tonight! Best sloppy Joe’s ever! So awesome!

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      January 18, 2018 at 11:20 am

      Thanks so much Amelia!

      Reply
  76. Kim Ryan says

    January 20, 2018 at 3:58 pm

    I rarely make a comment on a recipe I use, but this was excellent. I didn’t have green pepper, so substituted some red pepper and jalapeno. Otherwise I followed recipe exactly. The whole family enjoyed it. My teenage boys and husband have had a lot of complaints about some of my new paleo dinners, but no comlaints about this one. I served with roasted brussel sprouts.

    ★★★★★

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      February 12, 2018 at 1:35 pm

      I’m SO glad you stopped by to tell me this Kim!

      Reply
  77. Jill says

    January 25, 2018 at 5:47 pm

    OH MY Gosh! I almost cried when my super duper picky eating toddler had two bowl fulls of this. I said out loud at the dinner table, “thank you Chrissa!”

    ★★★★★

    Reply
    • Jill says

      January 25, 2018 at 5:49 pm

      I’m adding that my husband and I liked them too! My husband doesn’t like traditional sloppy Joe’s bc of the sweetness and likes that this is a more savory version.

      Reply
      • Chrissa says

        February 12, 2018 at 1:29 pm

        So great to hear that!

        Reply
    • Chrissa says

      February 12, 2018 at 1:29 pm

      Yaaaay I’m crying for you!

      Reply
  78. Natasha says

    February 3, 2018 at 5:16 pm

    Made this tonight!! I only had ground turkey on hand instead of beef…and orange pepper instead of green and they turned out fabulous!!! Thank you ?

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      February 12, 2018 at 1:22 pm

      Good to know it worked out. Thanks!

      Reply
  79. Niky says

    February 7, 2018 at 6:43 pm

    Do you have the nutrition facts on these? Thanks!

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      February 11, 2018 at 2:24 pm

      I’m sorry, unfortunately I do not.

      Reply
  80. Linda Ward says

    February 11, 2018 at 7:57 pm

    Made this recipe tonight for my family, it was delicious! This will definitely be on my dinner menu going forward! ?

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      February 12, 2018 at 1:20 pm

      So glad the family approved!

      Reply
  81. Michelle says

    February 17, 2018 at 11:11 am

    Can I use ground turkey instead?

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      February 27, 2018 at 10:30 pm

      Yes, turkey will work too!

      Reply
  82. Nikki @Seeded at the Table says

    February 18, 2018 at 12:32 pm

    This sloppy joe recipe was delicious! I made double the batch and froze one since we are going through Whole30 and live off leftovers. 🙂 But, this was so good that I will probably use this recipe for sloppy joe’s even when we are done with Whole30 and using buns! Thanks for recipe!

    ★★★★★

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      February 27, 2018 at 10:28 pm

      So glad you enjoyed it Nikki!!

      Reply
  83. Kelby says

    February 22, 2018 at 3:58 pm

    This recipe is so delicious and it freezes super well, so make a bunch to save for later. I like mine on a sweet potato. Yummmm!

    ★★★★★

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      February 27, 2018 at 10:19 pm

      Yes I love freezing batches and batches. Glad you liked it Kelby.

      Reply
  84. Samantha says

    February 28, 2018 at 10:10 am

    Chrissa this recipe was AMAZING! I made it for the first time last night and delicious doesn’t even describe it. The leftovers today were just as good too! Also, I love that I never need to worry about looking ahead at your recipes to see if I need to start making it early or do anything ahead – they’re always so quick and easy!

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      March 5, 2018 at 3:22 pm

      I’m so happy you loved it Samantha!

      Reply
  85. Kay says

    February 28, 2018 at 9:02 pm

    This is going to become a staple in my house. Even my two pickiest eaters liked it.

    ★★★★★

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      March 5, 2018 at 3:21 pm

      Hallelujah!!!

      Reply
  86. Shawn says

    March 1, 2018 at 5:37 pm

    I’m on day 25 of Whole30 and one thing I’ve learned is when someone says “this recipe is amazing” you need to remember they are starving too. But this recipe stands as the best Whole30 recipe that I’ve tried. I make my own sloppy joes normally so my bar was already higher than what you get out of a can. I would just eat the meat plain sometimes..yeah it’s that good. Nice work on this recipe!

    ★★★★★

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      March 5, 2018 at 3:19 pm

      Wow Shawn – awesome compliment (and made my giggle too). Glad you enjoyed these!

      Reply
  87. Ashley says

    March 3, 2018 at 7:45 am

    So I’m allergic to dates! Should I just leave them out or is there something else you would suggest I use instead?

    Thanks!

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      March 5, 2018 at 3:17 pm

      If you aren’t concerned about keeping these Whole30 complaint, try a little honey!

      Reply
  88. Emily says

    March 16, 2018 at 4:50 pm

    I added diced mushrooms and shredded carrots for some extra veggies but this was one of my fave whole30 recipes so far!

    ★★★★★

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      March 19, 2018 at 1:18 pm

      Great idea! So glad you liked it Emily!

      Reply
  89. Jessi says

    March 25, 2018 at 11:48 am

    I was really expecting not to like this. I’m almost at the end of my first Whole 30. My doctor basically prescribed me to do it to see if it would help us find some answers for the health issues I’ve been struggling with. I WISH I FOUND THIS SOONER! My entire family, 4 & 6 year old included, LOVED this so much! My husband being the biggest skeptic, but he raved about how good this was. Thank you so much for sharing!!!!

    ★★★★★

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      April 3, 2018 at 1:14 pm

      Awe thanks so much for your support Jessi!

      Reply
  90. Chelle says

    April 3, 2018 at 9:21 am

    What could substitute the dates for if you can’t get them or can’t eat them?

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      April 3, 2018 at 10:05 am

      Honey is a good sub, but if you are trying to keep these Whole30, I’ve heard figs or even raisins work!

      Reply
  91. Kayla says

    April 8, 2018 at 9:36 am

    So good! Made a double batch just trusting it would be good and I’m glad I wasn’t wrong! I think my dates were really big though because it’s really sweet, next time I’ll adjust that.

    ★★★★★

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      April 16, 2018 at 8:53 pm

      Totally can adjust the sweetness to your liking. Glad you loved it Kayla!

      Reply
  92. Jordan says

    April 9, 2018 at 5:42 pm

    Made this for dinner tonight! So so good!

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      April 16, 2018 at 8:51 pm

      Glad you liked it Jordan!

      Reply
  93. April says

    April 11, 2018 at 6:28 pm

    I had about a cup of shredded roasted beets that needed to be used up so I mixed those in instead of dates. It’s really good! It’s a bit of a weird hot pink but that’s OK! ?

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      April 16, 2018 at 8:49 pm

      Oh my gosh I’m loving your creativity!

      Reply
  94. Rachelle says

    April 20, 2018 at 8:23 am

    This is my absolute favorite recipe of yours! I would honestly eat it every week – I don’t think I could ever get tired of it! I can’t say enough about it – if anyone hasn’t tried it yet you really should you will not be disappointed!

    ★★★★★

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      April 24, 2018 at 3:44 pm

      Thank you SO much Rachelle. Thrilled you love this recipe so much!

      Reply
  95. AlexC says

    May 1, 2018 at 5:50 pm

    I made this for day ONE of our Whole 30 challenge tonight and it was SO amazingly delicious!!!

    ★★★★★

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      May 6, 2018 at 11:19 am

      WHOO HOO! Great starter recipe Alex! Glad you liked it!

      Reply
  96. Kathleen says

    July 5, 2018 at 1:59 pm

    Has anyone tried it w/o the date mixture? Is it still good?

    Reply
    • Chrissa says

      July 12, 2018 at 9:06 am

      I’ve heard of people trying it without the dates and liking it! I haven’t though.

      Reply
  97. Halie Alexander says

    May 22, 2019 at 6:47 pm

    I have never eaten a date in my life, and was sooooo scared to try this recipe! But everyone else who said it was worth it was totally right- this was one of the BEST dinners my family has ever had! Thank you so much for such a creative and delicious recipe. My husband, teenage son, and I ate the entire pan of sloppy joe meat between us. ? I’m looking forward to trying more of your recipes, and using dates again!

    ★★★★★

    Reply
  98. Stephanie Johnson says

    May 23, 2019 at 7:47 am

    These were amazing, I don’t know if I’ll ever go back to the ketchup, brown sugar, mustard recipe again!

    Reply
  99. Mike says

    October 27, 2021 at 8:44 am

    My wife found this recipe a few years ago while doing a Whole30. Loved it the first time and never changed a thing. With 4 growing boys, we triple it to have left overs. It never lasts long. Thank you for helping us show our boys that “healthy eating” can also be delicious.

    ★★★★★

    Reply

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Hey busy moms! Feeling a 'lil overwhelmed sometimes? I hear ya. But don't worry - I've got lots of healthy (EASY) recipes and at-home workouts to simplify your life and keep you on track. All with a little mom humor mixed in. Interested to know more? Click here >> Read More…


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