Craving the ultimate throwback of the humble sloppy joe-minus the meat? Look no further. This version stars ground plant-based protein and is worlds tastier than the ones the lunch lady slung: Think pickled onion, a smoky BBQ sauce and a side of hearty potato wedges. (We’d definitely still recommend keeping a few napkins nearby, though.)
These messy, satisfying sandwiches come together quickly with simple ingredients. The tangy pickled red onion cuts through the rich, smoky sauce, while crispy oven-roasted potato wedges and a bright lemon mayo round out the meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner that feels like a treat.
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Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F. Cut potatoes into ½-inch wedges. Toss with half the Southwest Spice Blend, salt and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
- Meanwhile, thinly slice the red onion. In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons water, 1 tablespoon vinegar (from the pickling liquid if available or use white vinegar) and a pinch of salt. Add onion slices and let sit for at least 10 minutes to quick-pickle.
- In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise with a squeeze of lemon juice (about 1 teaspoon) and a pinch of salt. Set aside.
- In a medium skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground plant-based protein. Cook, breaking it apart, for 4-5 minutes until browned. Season with remaining Southwest Spice Blend, salt and pepper.
- In a small bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, ketchup, mushroom stock concentrate, cornstarch and ¼ cup water. Pour into the skillet with the protein. Stir and simmer for 2-3 minutes until thickened.
- Toast the brioche buns in a toaster or under the broiler until lightly golden. Spread lemon mayo on the bottom bun, pile on the plant-based protein mixture and top with pickled onions. Serve with roasted potato wedges and extra lemon mayo on the side.
Recipe Tips
For extra crispy wedges, soak cut potatoes in cold water for 30 minutes before roasting; pat dry before seasoning.
If you don’t have mushroom stock concentrate, substitute with vegetable broth powder or soy sauce mixed with water.
The pickled onion can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to a week.
FAQ
Can I use a different protein instead of plant-based ground?
Yes, you can substitute with ground beef, turkey or crumbled tofu. Adjust cooking time as needed.
How do I make the pickled onion if I don't have vinegar?
Use lemon juice or lime juice mixed with a pinch of sugar and salt. Let sit for 10 minutes.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Use gluten-free buns and ensure your BBQ sauce and ketchup are gluten-free. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.


























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