Hearty, spicy, and totally satisfying.
These sloppy joes are meatless but bold, packed with lentils and smoky flavor.
🧡 Why I Love This Recipe
This one’s been a favorite in my house for years. It started when I was trying to cut back on meat, but still craved something saucy, spicy, and a little messy.
- It’s way cheaper than traditional sloppy joes
- You won’t miss the meat—promise
- Perfect for meal prep or a fast weeknight meal
- It freezes beautifully
- It’s got that spicy, sweet, savory combo that hits just right
🍽 Servings + Time
- Serves: 4 big sandwiches
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
🧠 Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
Lentils are little protein powerhouses that soak up flavor like sponges. When cooked down with tomato paste, spices, and liquid, they mimic the texture of ground beef. The combo of smoky paprika, chili powder, and a splash of vinegar balances spice, depth, and tang—just like classic sloppy joes.
🛒 What You’ll Need
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup dried brown or green lentils, rinsed
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 2 ½ cups vegetable broth
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- 4 hamburger buns or sandwich rolls
- Optional toppings: sliced pickles, coleslaw, hot sauce
🔪 Tools You’ll Need
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Wooden spoon
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Small bowl for toppings
🍳 How to Make Spicy Lentil Sloppy Joes
Step 1: Sauté the veggies
Heat the olive oil in a skillet. Toss in diced onion and red bell pepper. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
Step 2: Add garlic and tomato paste
Stir in the minced garlic and tomato paste. Cook for 1–2 minutes until it darkens and smells amazing.
Step 3: Add the spices
Add smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir it all in so the spices coat everything.
Step 4: Add the lentils and liquids
Stir in the rinsed lentils, vegetable broth, maple syrup, soy sauce, and apple cider vinegar. Bring it to a simmer.
Step 5: Let it cook
Cover and simmer for 25–30 minutes, until lentils are soft and the mixture is thick and saucy.
Step 6: Toast the buns
Split and toast the buns lightly on a dry skillet or in the oven until golden.
Step 7: Assemble and serve
Spoon that spicy lentil mix onto your toasted buns. Add any toppings you like—pickles, slaw, or a dash of hot sauce.
🧊 Leftovers + Storage
- Store lentil filling in the fridge for up to 4 days
- Reheat on the stove or microwave—add a splash of water if too thick
- Freeze for up to 2 months
- Don’t freeze the buns—those are best fresh
🍽 What to Serve With It
- Crunchy coleslaw
- Pickles or sliced jalapeños
- Sweet potato fries or baked chips
- A side salad with lemon vinaigrette
- Corn on the cob in the summer
❌ Common Mistakes
- Undercooking the lentils: They should be soft, not crunchy
- Not enough seasoning: Taste and adjust salt and spice at the end
- Too much liquid: Simmer uncovered at the end if it’s too runny
- Skipping the tomato paste step: It’s key for deep flavor
- Using red lentils: They get too mushy—stick to brown or green
🍱 Meal Plan Ideas
- Make a double batch and freeze half
- Use leftovers in wraps or over baked potatoes
- Serve open-faced with melted vegan cheese for a spicy toastie
- Pack it for lunch with a side of slaw
❓ FAQ
Can I use canned lentils?
Yes! Use two 15 oz cans, drained. Cut the broth to just ¾ cup and simmer for less time.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The filling is! Just use gluten-free buns or lettuce wraps.
Can I make it less spicy?
Totally—just reduce the chili powder and skip hot sauce.
Can I make it ahead?
Yes, the lentil filling tastes even better the next day.
Let me know if you want a printable version or a grocery list to go with it!