Crockpot Vegan Lentil Sloppy Joes

ByBui Thao

If you want something hearty, flavorful, and easy to make, these Crockpot Vegan Lentil Sloppy Joes are perfect.

They’re saucy, satisfying, and made with simple ingredients.

Just throw everything into the crockpot and let it cook while you go about your day.

Why I Love This Recipe

I started making this when I needed something filling but didn’t want to cook on the stove all day. It turned into one of my favorite go-to meals. The flavor is bold, the texture is just right, and it’s the kind of recipe that gets better with time.

  • Perfect for meal prep or feeding a group
  • No meat, no problem—it’s super hearty
  • Made with pantry staples
  • Hands-off cooking
  • Tastes even better the next day
Crockpot Vegan Lentil Sloppy Joes

Makes

6–8 sandwiches

Time

Cook on HIGH for 3–4 hours or LOW for 6–7 hours

What You’ll Need

  • 1 cup dry brown lentils, rinsed
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (15 oz) can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 2 teaspoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 ½ cups vegetable broth
  • Hamburger buns, for serving
  • Optional toppings: chopped parsley, red onion slices, pickles

Pro Tips

  • Use brown lentils – they hold their shape better than red
  • Add a splash of water at the end if it’s too thick
  • Toast the buns for extra texture
  • Make a double batch and freeze half
  • Let it sit for 10 minutes after cooking for the flavors to settle

Tools You’ll Need

  • 6-quart black oval crockpot
  • Cutting board + knife
  • Can opener
  • Measuring spoons
  • Measuring cups
  • Mixing spoon

Substitutions and Variations

  • Swap brown lentils with green lentils
  • Use ketchup instead of tomato paste + maple syrup
  • Add diced carrots for extra veggies
  • For soy-free, sub coconut aminos
  • Use gluten-free buns if needed

Make Ahead Tips

  • Chop the veggies and store them in the fridge the night before
  • Pre-measure your spices and keep them in a small container
  • You can also assemble everything (except broth) in the crockpot insert and store in the fridge overnight

How to Make Crockpot Vegan Lentil Sloppy Joes

Step 1: Add Onion, Garlic, and Bell Pepper

Add 1 diced onion, 3 cloves garlic (minced), and 1 diced red bell pepper to the crockpot.

Step 2: Add the Lentils

Add 1 cup of dry brown lentils (rinsed) to the crockpot.

Step 3: Add Crushed Tomatoes and Tomato Paste

Pour in 1 can (15 oz) of crushed tomatoes and 1 can (6 oz) of tomato paste.

Step 4: Add the Sauces and Seasonings

Step 5: Pour in the Broth

Pour in 2½ cups of vegetable broth.

Step 6: Stir Everything

Give everything a good stir to combine.

Step 7: Cook on LOW for 6–7 Hours or HIGH for 3–4 Hours

Cover with the lid and let it cook until the lentils are soft and the sauce is thick.

Step 8: Serve

Spoon onto toasted buns and top with parsley, red onion, or pickles if you like.

Macros (Per Serving, Approx. 1 sandwich)

  • Calories: 270
  • Protein: 13g
  • Carbs: 38g
  • Fat: 5g
  • Fiber: 11g

Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)

  • Lentils soak up flavor and thicken naturally as they cook
  • Tomato paste and crushed tomatoes add umami and depth
  • Slow cooking allows the flavors to develop without extra effort

Common Mistakes

  • Not rinsing the lentils — it can leave a bitter flavor
  • Using too little liquid — lentils need enough broth to cook evenly
  • Adding the buns too soon — they’ll get soggy if assembled early

What to Serve With

  • Roasted sweet potato fries
  • Simple green salad
  • Dill pickles or coleslaw
  • Corn on the cob

FAQ

Can I use canned lentils?
No, they’ll get too mushy. Use dry lentils only.

Can I freeze it?
Yes! Let it cool, then freeze in airtight containers.

Is it spicy?
Nope! But you can add hot sauce or red pepper flakes if you like heat.

What kind of buns work best?
Any! Classic hamburger buns, whole wheat, or gluten-free all work great.

Final Thoughts

This Crockpot Vegan Lentil Sloppy Joe recipe is everything you want: hearty, simple, and packed with flavor. It’s the kind of meal that feels like comfort but keeps things plant-based and healthy. Save it, share it, and make it again soon!

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