How to Make the Best Lentil Sloppy Joes — Protein-Packed, Plant-Based & Ready in 30 Minutes
These hearty Lentil Sloppy Joes are a plant-based twist on the classic comfort food favorite! Packed with smoky, savory flavors, they come together quickly with simple pantry staples. Ready in just 30 minutes, they're high in protein, fiber-rich, and guaranteed to satisfy everyone at the table — even meat lovers!
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Large skillet
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
Ingredients
For the Lentil Mixture:
- 1 cup dried green or brown lentils rinsed and drained
- 2½ cups vegetable broth or water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion diced
- 1 red bell pepper diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup or brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon chili powder optional
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Serving:
- 6 hamburger buns or slider rolls gluten-free if needed
- Optional toppings: pickled onions avocado slices, vegan cheese, spinach
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed lentils and vegetable broth.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer and cook uncovered for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lentils are tender but still firm. Drain any excess liquid and set aside.
- While the lentils cook, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and red bell pepper, and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.
- Add the tomato paste, tomato sauce, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, smoked paprika, cumin, and chili powder to the skillet.
- Stir well and let the mixture simmer for 2–3 minutes to develop flavor.
- Add the cooked lentils to the skillet and stir to coat evenly with the sauce.
- Simmer for another 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens to a sloppy joe consistency.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, black pepper, or extra vinegar if desired.
- Toast the buns if preferred, then spoon generous portions of the lentil mixture onto each bun.
- Top with your favorite garnishes and serve warm.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Protein: 13g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fat: 6g
- Fiber: 11g
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 450mg
Notes
Notes:
Short on time? Use canned lentils—just rinse and drain them well.
Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free buns and swap tamari for soy sauce.
Add more veggies: Finely diced carrots, mushrooms, or zucchini can be added when sautéing the onions.
Freezing instructions: Cool the lentil mixture completely before freezing in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat with a splash of water.