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These Taco Sloppy Joes are a bold and satisfying twist on a classic sloppy joes recipe. This easy sloppy joes dinner combines seasoned ground beef, beans, corn, and salsa for a hearty meal that’s perfect for busy nights. If you’re looking for a taco sloppy joe recipe that’s simple, budget-friendly, and packed with flavor, this one checks all the boxes.

Even better, these Tex-Mex sloppy joes stretch one pound of ground beef into a filling meal the whole family will love.

Taco Sloppy Joes sandwich with sesame seed bun, ground beef, black beans, corn, cheese, and cilantro served with chips and jalapenos

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❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy dinner ready in about 30 minutes
  • Budget-friendly way to stretch ground beef
  • Packed with bold Tex-Mex flavor
  • Family-friendly and customizable
  • Doubles as tacos, nachos, or meal prep

Key Ingredients

NOTE: This section highlights ingredients used in the recipe. Find the full printable recipe in the recipe card below.

Ground beef

The base of these ground beef sloppy joes, adding rich flavor and texture.

Taco seasoning

Gives this taco sloppy joe recipe its bold, signature flavor.

Salsa

Adds moisture and a slight kick that makes these Tex-Mex sloppy joes stand out.

Black beans and corn

Help stretch the meat while adding texture and heartiness.

Taco Sloppy Joes ingredients including ground beef, onion, green bell pepper, black beans, corn, salsa, tomato sauce, spices, and cilantro on a white surface

Ingredients & Substitutions

NOTE: This section suggests substitutions. Find the full printable recipe in the recipe card below.

  • lean ground beef – substitute with ground turkey, chicken, or pork
  • sweet onion – substitute with yellow onion
  • green bell pepper – substitute with red bell pepper or omit
  • taco seasoning packet – use homemade taco seasoning
  • garlic powder – no substitution recommended
  • onion powder – no substitution recommended
  • ground cumin – no substitution recommended
  • tomato sauce – no substitution recommended
  • salsa – use mild, medium, or hot
  • black beans – substitute with pinto beans or kidney beans
  • whole kernel corn – use fresh or frozen corn
  • diced green chiles – omit for less heat
  • fresh cilantro – omit if desired
  • burger buns – use sandwich rolls or tortillas

Variations for Tex-Mex Sloppy Joes

  • Make it spicy with hot salsa or jalapeños
  • Stir in shredded cheese for a creamy version
  • Use as a taco filling instead of sandwiches
  • Swap beans for extra veggies
close up of Taco Sloppy Joes sandwich with ground beef, black beans, corn, cheese, and cilantro on a bun

Tips for Best Results

  • Drain the grease well for the best texture
  • Simmer just until slightly thickened
  • Toast buns to prevent sogginess
  • Customize toppings to taste

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FAQs

Can I make this taco sloppy joe recipe ahead of time?

Yes, this easy sloppy joes recipe reheats well and is perfect for meal prep.

Can I freeze Taco Sloppy Joes?

Yes, the filling freezes well for up to 3 months.

What toppings go best with ground beef sloppy joes?

Try shredded cheese, sour cream, lettuce, tomatoes, or avocado.

How to Store Taco Sloppy Joes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

How to Make Taco Sloppy Joes at Home

NOTE: This section includes a step-by-step guide. Find the full printable recipe in the recipe card below.

This taco sloppy joe recipe comes together quickly in one skillet, making it a perfect easy sloppy joes dinner for busy weeknights.

Quick steps:

  1. Cook ground beef with onion and bell pepper until no pink remains
  2. Drain grease and stir in seasonings
  3. Add sauce, beans, corn, and chiles
  4. Simmer until slightly thickened
  5. Stir in cilantro and serve on buns

🍽️ If You Enjoyed Taco Sloppy Joes

If you loved the bold flavors in these Taco Sloppy Joes, there are plenty of other easy, Tex-Mex-inspired recipes to try next.

  • For a fresh and hearty side, this Taco Pasta Salad pairs perfectly with sloppy joes and is great for potlucks or meal prep.
  • If you’re looking for something lighter but still packed with flavor, this Mexican Bean Salad is a simple, refreshing option that beautifully balances rich meals.
  • Craving something creamy with a little kick? This Creamy Chipotle Pasta Salad brings smoky flavor and makes a great addition to any easy sloppy joes dinner spread.
  • And if you love layered, satisfying meals, don’t miss this 7 Layer Burrito, which is just as filling and loaded with Tex-Mex goodness as these ground beef sloppy joes.

For even more ideas, be sure to browse the full collection in the recipe index, where you’ll find even more easy dinners, taco sloppy joe recipe variations, and comfort food favorites.

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Don’t lose this Taco Sloppy Joes recipe! Pin it to your easy dinner, ground beef recipes, or sloppy joes recipe boards on Pinterest so you can find it fast later.

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Taco Sloppy Joes sandwich on a bun topped with cheese, tomatoes, and cilantro served with chips
square image of Taco Sloppy Joes sandwich with ground beef, black beans, corn, cheese, and cilantro on a bun
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Servings: 8 servings

Taco Sloppy Joes

By Jamie Sherman
Taco Sloppy Joes are an easy weeknight dinner with ground beef, salsa, beans, and bold Tex-Mex flavor. Ready in 30 minutes and family-friendly.
Prep: 10 minutes
Cook: 18 minutes
Total: 28 minutes

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Ingredients 

  • 1 pound lean ground beef
  • 1 small sweet onion, diced
  • 1 small green bell pepper, diced
  • 1 packet taco seasoning, 1 ounce
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 can tomato sauce, (8 oz.)
  • ½ cup salsa
  • 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup corn, drained
  • 1 can diced green chiles, (4 oz.), drained
  • ¼ cup chopped cilantro
  • hamburger buns
  • toppings of your choice

Instructions 

  • In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook and crumble the ground beef, onion, and bell pepper until no pink remains, about 8-10 minutes.
    1 pound lean ground beef, 1 small sweet onion, 1 small green bell pepper
  • Drain excess fat if necessary. Add taco seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and cumin. Stir well and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
    1 packet taco seasoning, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • Stir in tomato sauce, salsa, black beans, corn, and green chiles. Simmer for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened but still saucy.
    1 can tomato sauce, ½ cup salsa, 1 cup black beans, 1 cup corn, 1 can diced green chiles
  • Stir in cilantro.
    ¼ cup chopped cilantro
  • Serve on buns with your favorite toppings.
    hamburger buns, toppings of your choice

Notes

🥡 STORAGE

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days

♨️ REHEATING

  • Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to loosen
  • Microwave in short intervals, stirring between each

❄️ FREEZING

  • Freeze cooled mixture in airtight containers for up to 3 months
  • Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating

💡 TIPS FOR BEST RESULTS

  • Drain grease well to prevent an oily texture
  • Use mild seasoning for less heat
  • Toast buns for better structure

🍳 ALTERNATE COOKING METHODS

  • Slow cooker – brown meat first, then cook on low for 2-3 hours
  • Instant pot – sauté first, then simmer briefly

♻️ LEFTOVERS

  • Use as taco filling
  • Spoon over nachos or baked potatoes

📝 NOTES

  • Fresh or frozen corn works well
  • Omit green chiles for a milder version
  • Works with ground turkey, pork, or chicken

Nutrition

Serving: 1sandwich, Calories: 179kcal, Carbohydrates: 22g, Protein: 17g, Fat: 4g, Saturated Fat: 1g, Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.5g, Monounsaturated Fat: 1g, Trans Fat: 0.2g, Cholesterol: 35mg, Sodium: 961mg, Potassium: 704mg, Fiber: 6g, Sugar: 8g, Vitamin A: 998IU, Vitamin C: 24mg, Calcium: 46mg, Iron: 4mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

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Jamie

Jamie Sherman founded Love Bakes Good Cakes in February 2012. She is a self-taught home cook passionate about sharing easy, delicious, and family-friendly recipes. From comforting classics to irresistible desserts, I believe homemade food brings people together. Join me on my journey of creating and sharing meals that bring joy to every table!

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