What can replace ground beef in sloppy joes?

Brown or green lentils, a plant-based ground meat, or finely chopped mushrooms and walnuts.

Is Worcestershire sauce vegan?

Usually not; most brands contain anchovies. Look for one labeled vegan.

Vegan Lentil Sloppy Joes

Brown lentils simmered in a tangy-sweet sauce of tomato, ketchup, mustard and vegan Worcestershire, piled onto soft buns. Makes 6 sandwiches.

Vegan Vegetarian Dairy-free Freezer-friendly

Contains: wheat, soy. Based on the ingredients as written; check package labels, which can change.

A vegan version of our Sloppy Joes, from the Steak and Seafood kitchen.

Prep 10 min
Cook 35 min
Total 45 min
Yield 6 sandwiches
Level Easy

Updated November 4, 2026

Vegan lentil sloppy joe on a toasted bun with the saucy filling spilling out

Our family Sloppy Joes are a half-hour pot of beef, onions and a tangy ketchup sauce. Brown lentils make a surprisingly good stand-in: they hold their shape, soak up the sauce and give the same loose, spoonable filling.

Regular Worcestershire sauce contains anchovies, so use a vegan one. Most soft sandwich buns are vegan, but check for milk and eggs.

Instructions

Cook the lentils. Simmer the lentils in the water for 20 to 25 minutes, until tender but not mushy. Drain any extra liquid.
Soften the vegetables. Heat the oil in a large skillet and cook the onion and pepper for 6 minutes. Add the garlic for 1 minute.
Simmer. Add the lentils, tomato sauce, ketchup, mustard, brown sugar, Worcestershire, chili powder and salt. Simmer 10 minutes, until thick.
Serve. Pile onto toasted buns.

Nutrition per serving (estimated)

190Calories

34 gCarbohydrates

5 gFiber

29 gNet carbs

9 gProtein

3 gFat

Estimated per serving, based on 6 servings, using USDA FoodData Central values for each ingredient. Net carbs are carbohydrates minus fiber. Optional ingredients, garnishes and anything served on the side are not included, and marinades are counted at about a third because most is discarded. Brands and portion sizes change the numbers.

Vegetarian Vegan Dairy-free

Tips

To freeze: cool it quickly, pack it in airtight containers or freezer bags, and freeze up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat to 165°F.
Mash a third of the lentils with a potato masher for a more traditional texture.
The filling keeps 4 days in the refrigerator and freezes well.

Storage and leftovers

Make ahead Freezer-friendly

The filling keeps 4 days in the refrigerator and freezes well, up to 3 months. Reheat on the stove with a splash of water.

Questions about this recipe

What can replace ground beef in sloppy joes?: Brown or green lentils, a plant-based ground meat, or finely chopped mushrooms and walnuts.
Is Worcestershire sauce vegan?: Usually not; most brands contain anchovies. Look for one labeled vegan.

Serve it with

Build the whole dinner: sides, sauce and dessert ›

Pairs with: Zinfandel, or a cold lager. Wine pairing guide

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