Classic Church Sloppy Joes

*This post may contain affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

There’s just something about a church salad luncheon that sticks with you. Long folding tables, pastel tablecloths, casseroles lined up as far as you can see—and right in the middle of it all, a big slow cooker or skillet full of saucy, savory sloppy joes.

That’s exactly where I first fell in love with these Classic Church Sloppy Joes.

Growing up, these were the kind of sandwiches you’d spot from across the room. You knew exactly what they were by that rich, slightly sweet tomato smell drifting through the air.

Someone’s grandma had made them (honestly, probably several grandmas), and they’d always disappear fast. Piled high on soft buns and served alongside potato salad, Jell-O salads, and bars for dessert—this was comfort food at its finest.

The original version of this recipe was made for a crowd in the truest sense—calling for a whopping 15 pounds of ground beef to feed an entire church gathering!

I’ve scaled it way down here to serve 4–6 people, but it still keeps all that classic flavor and nostalgia.

If you’ve ever needed a recipe that can grow with your crowd, this is definitely one of those.

What makes this version special is how simple and nostalgic it is. No fancy ingredients, no complicated steps—just pantry staples coming together to create that unmistakable flavor.

The oatmeal might surprise you, but it’s the secret that gives these sloppy joes that classic church-luncheon texture. It helps thicken everything up while stretching the filling just enough to feed a crowd—because those gatherings were always about sharing.

---

Why You’ll Love These Sloppy Joes

• Old-fashioned flavor just like you remember
• Budget-friendly ingredients you probably already have on hand
• Quick and easy—ready in about 30 minutes
• Easy to scale up if you’re feeding a crowd

What are Classic Church Sloppy Joes?

Classic Church Sloppy Joes are an old-fashioned, crowd-friendly version of sloppy joes that were often served at community gatherings—especially church potlucks and salad luncheons.

They’re a simple hot sandwich made with ground beef simmered in a sweet and tangy tomato-based sauce, then served on soft sandwich buns. What makes the church-style version a little different from modern sloppy joes is how practical and budget-friendly it is.

Ingredients

• Ground beef
• Chopped onion
• Condensed tomato soup
• Worcestershire sauce
• Vinegar
• Brown sugar
• Ketchup
• Oatmeal

How to make Classic Church Sloppy Joes

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion together until the beef is browned and fully cooked.

Drain excess grease if needed.

In a small bowl, mix together the tomato soup, Worcestershire sauce, vinegar, brown sugar, and ketchup.

Pour the sauce mixture into the skillet with the beef and stir to combine.

Simmer for 15-20 minutes.

Add the oatmeal and stir well.

Reduce heat and let simmer for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is thickened and heated through.

Serve hot on buns.

What to Serve with Classic Church Sloppy Joes

If you’re planning a full meal (or recreating that church luncheon feel), these Classic Church Sloppy Joes pair perfectly with some of my favorite sides and desserts. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just want a cozy dinner, here are a few delicious ideas:

• Joanna Gaines’ Coleslaw
• Homemade French Onion Dip
• Macaroni Salad
• Cheesecake