Growing up, Sloppy Joe Baked Potatoes were a weeknight favorite—and they still are. As a busy working mom, I appreciate how simple and satisfying this meal is. The sloppy joe-style meat sauce relies on pantry staples, and if you’re short on time you can cook the potatoes in the microwave on a microwave-safe plate instead of the oven.
I bulk up the sloppy joe sauce with julienned zucchini and tri-color coleslaw for extra texture and flavor. It might sound odd to combine zucchini with BBQ sauce, but it adds a subtle freshness that pairs surprisingly well.
This meal is…
- hearty
- full of flavor
- quick to assemble
- very filling
- customizable
- great as leftovers
Russet potatoes are ideal for this recipe because their low moisture and high starch content make them fluffy when baked. Potatoes are versatile, comforting, and a good source of several nutrients.
Ingredients you need:
See the recipe card below for exact measurements.
- Russet potatoes – medium to large, ideal for baking.
- Onion – yellow or white, diced.
- Spices – garlic powder, chili powder, salt and pepper (adjust to taste).
- Ketchup and BBQ sauce – the combination makes a well-balanced sauce; use your favorite brands.
- Zucchini – julienned for added texture and nutrients.
- Tri-color coleslaw – adds crunch and interest to the filling.
- Ground turkey – a lean option; you can substitute ground beef or chicken if you prefer.
Step by Step Directions:
Refer to the recipe card for full details and measurements.
- Bake or microwave the potatoes until fork-tender.
- Sauté the onion, then cook the ground turkey until no longer pink.
- Add spices, ketchup, BBQ sauce, coleslaw and zucchini; stir to combine.
- Simmer briefly, then spoon the sloppy joe mixture over the baked potatoes.
- Garnish with green onions, cheese, sour cream, or other favorites.
Variations
- Add a touch of Dijon mustard if the sauce is too sweet.
- Swap ground turkey for ground beef or chicken.
- Meal prep: make the potatoes and filling in advance for quick reheating.
- Mix in other vegetables: broccoli, spinach, kale, or chopped bell peppers.
- Give it heat with chili flakes or hot sauce.
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Baking Sheets
Non Stick Skillet
Sloppy Joe Baked Potato
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Ingredients
- 3-5 Russet potatoes (depending on how many you are feeding)
- 3 Tbsp. olive oil, divided
- 1 small white or yellow onion, diced
- Kosher salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 tsp. chili powder
- 1 tsp. garlic powder
- 1 1/2 cups BBQ sauce of your choice
- 1 1/2 cups ketchup
- 7 oz. tri-color coleslaw (about 2 cups)
- 1 zucchini, julienned
- Garnish ideas: green onions, cherry tomatoes, cheese, sour cream, parsley, etc.
Before you begin: If you make this, please leave a review and rating to let us know how it turned out.
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Wash and dry the potatoes, then poke a few holes with a fork. Rub each potato with olive oil and a generous sprinkle of kosher salt. Bake 40–60 minutes, until fork-tender (time varies with potato size). Alternatively, microwave on a microwave-safe plate until tender.
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Heat the remaining olive oil in a deep sauté pan. Add the diced onion and sauté 3–5 minutes until fragrant; season with salt and pepper. Add the ground turkey and cook until no longer pink. Stir in chili powder and garlic powder, then add the BBQ sauce and ketchup. Mix well, then fold in the coleslaw and julienned zucchini. If the sauce is too thick, add a little water to reach your preferred consistency.
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Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer while the potatoes finish. Once potatoes are done, cut them lengthwise and stuff with the sloppy joe mixture. Garnish as desired with green onions, cherry tomatoes, cheese, sour cream, or parsley. Serve and enjoy.
Equipment
- Frying pan or skillet
- Chef’s knife
- Baking sheet
Notes
- Store the sloppy joe mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Cook baked potatoes ahead of time to speed up meal prep when you’re ready to eat.
- Swap or add vegetables like chopped broccoli or spinach for variety.
Nutrition Information
Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on ingredients and portion sizes.