This Lentil Sloppy Joes recipe is saucy, messy, and satisfying — and because it uses pre-cooked lentils, it comes together in about 15 minutes. You get all the cozy, nostalgic sloppy joe flavor without meat or a long simmer time, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Why you’ll love these meatless Sloppy Joes
If you grew up loving classic sloppy joes, these Lentil Sloppy Joes are a plant-based makeover that keeps the sweet, tangy, messy goodness you remember. They’re hearty, saucy, and wholly vegan—plus they’re quick and simple to make.
Highlights:
- High-protein vegetarian meal thanks to the lentils.
- Family-friendly — the sweet-savory sauce appeals to picky eaters.
- Budget- and pantry-friendly.
- Make-ahead & freezer-friendly — great for meal prep.
- One-pan and fast because the recipe uses pre-cooked lentils.
In this post…
- Sloppy Joe Ingredients
- How to make these Vegan Sloppy Joes
- Expert Tips
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Lentil Sloppy Joes Recipe
Sloppy Joe Ingredients
The full ingredient list is in the recipe card below, but here are the pantry staples and common swaps.
- Cooked lentils – Brown or green lentils hold their shape best. Use homemade cooked lentils or a drained can.
- Tomato sauce – Forms the saucy base.
- Tomato paste – Adds concentrated tomato flavor and richness.
- Ketchup – For classic sloppy joe sweetness; BBQ sauce also works.
- Mustard – Yellow or Dijon.
- Soy sauce or tamari – For umami depth.
- Smoked paprika + chili powder – Warm, smoky seasoning.
- Onion, bell pepper, garlic – The aromatic vegetable base.
- Optional toppings – Vegan cheese, pickled onions, avocado, shredded lettuce, etc.
How to make these Vegan Sloppy Joes
Below is an overview of the steps; the complete recipe is in the recipe card further down.
- Sauté onion and bell pepper in olive oil over medium heat until softened.
- Stir in tomato paste and spices and cook briefly so the flavors deepen.
- Add cooked lentils, tomato sauce, ketchup, mustard, and soy sauce. Stir and simmer until heated through and thickened.
- Spoon the mixture onto toasted buns, add desired toppings, and serve.
Expert Tips
- Use canned or cooked lentils — drain canned lentils well.
- Don’t overcook after adding lentils; you’re just warming them.
- If too thick, add a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.
- Toast the buns for better texture.
- Sweeten with extra ketchup, maple syrup, or brown sugar if desired.
- Spice it up with chipotle powder or diced jalapeño.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes — one drained can of lentils works well and speeds up the recipe. Prepared packaged lentils from the produce section also work.
Cook about ¾ cup dried brown or green lentils to yield roughly 1½ cups cooked lentils.
Brown or green lentils hold up best. Red lentils cook very soft and are not ideal for this recipe.
Yes — the filling freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or reheat from frozen on the stovetop.
Warm gently on the stove with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.
Lentil Sloppy Joes
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, finely diced (any color)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1½ cups cooked lentils, or 1 can, drained
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon mustard (yellow or Dijon)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce, or tamari for gluten-free
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon chili powder (optional)
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- Burger buns or sandwich rolls
- Optional toppings: vegan cheese, pickled onions, sliced avocado, shredded lettuce
Instructions
- Sauté veggies: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and bell pepper and cook until softened, about 5–6 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
- Add tomato paste and seasonings: Stir in tomato paste, smoked paprika, chili powder, and a pinch of salt. Cook 1–2 minutes to deepen the flavors.
- Stir in lentils and sauce: Add cooked lentils, tomato sauce, ketchup, mustard, and soy sauce. Stir to combine and simmer 5–7 minutes, until thickened and heated through. Taste and adjust seasoning.
- Assemble: Spoon the mixture onto toasted buns, add toppings if desired, and serve.
Notes
Nutritional info does not include buns or toppings.
Freezer instructions: Let the lentil filling cool completely. Store in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or reheat from frozen on the stovetop with a splash of water.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is an approximation.
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