Looking for a unique twist on a classic comfort food? Turkey Sloppy Joes with Pears blend sweet, savory, and tangy flavors in one mouthwatering bite. By combining lean ground turkey with the natural sweetness of ripe pears and a zesty tomato-based sauce, this recipe delivers a wholesome, satisfying meal perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or meal prep. Best of all? It’s easy to make and packed with flavor.
Let’s dive into everything you need to know about this surprisingly delicious combination.
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What is Turkey Sloppy Joes with Pears?
Turkey Sloppy Joes with Pears is a healthier version of the traditional Sloppy Joe, made with ground turkey instead of beef and enhanced with diced ripe pears for a touch of natural sweetness. These sandwiches are simmered in a tangy tomato-based sauce seasoned with mustard, thyme, and optional ground cloves for a warming, aromatic finish. Served on whole wheat hamburger buns, this dish balances comfort and nutrition beautifully.
Why You’ll Love It
There are plenty of reasons this recipe will become a regular on your dinner table:
- Healthier Option: Lean ground turkey is lower in fat compared to traditional ground beef.
- Natural Sweetness: Pears bring an unexpected but delicious sweetness that complements the savory flavors.
- Quick to Make: From stovetop to sandwich, this meal comes together in under 30 minutes.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike love the sweet-savory combo.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Perfect for batch cooking and storing for busy weeknights.
Turkey Sloppy Joes Variations
Feel free to make this dish your own with these easy swaps and twists:
- Make it Spicier: Add jalapeños or chili flakes for a kick of heat.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace turkey with lentils or finely chopped mushrooms.
- Cheesy Joes: Add a slice of cheddar or mozzarella to each bun for extra indulgence.
- Apple Substitute: No pears? Use diced apples for a similar sweet crunch.
Serving Suggestions
Turkey Sloppy Joes with Pears are delicious served with:
- Crispy sweet potato fries or roasted potatoes
- A simple green salad with vinaigrette
- Steamed green beans or corn on the cob
- Dill pickles or coleslaw for crunch and contrast
Pro tip: Lightly toast the buns for a sturdier bite that won’t get soggy.
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Ingredients
(yields 6 Burgers)
- 2 ripe pears, diced
- 1 pound ground turkey breast
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 teaspoons spicy brown mustard
- 1 teaspoon minced fresh thyme
- 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves (optional but recommended)
- 8 whole wheat hamburger buns, split
How to Make Turkey Sloppy Joes with Pears
1. Prepare the Produce:
- Dice pears, onion, and red bell pepper. Set aside.
2. Cook the Turkey:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground turkey until no longer pink, breaking it up with a spoon (about 5–7 minutes).
3. Sauté the Veggies:
- Add chopped onion and bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté until soft, about 3–4 minutes.
4. Add the Sauce And Pears:
- Stir in the tomato sauce, ketchup, mustard, thyme, and ground cloves. Mix well.
- Fold in the diced pears and let the mixture simmer for 5–7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
6. Assemble the Sandwiches:
- Spoon the mixture onto whole wheat buns and serve immediately.
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Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the filling up to 2 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge.
- Freezing: Freeze the cooled mixture for up to 2 months. Reheat on the stovetop before serving.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for 3–4 days. Just reheat and serve on fresh buns.
Nutrition Per Serving
(1 Sandwich)
- Calories: 307
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrate: 38g
- Cholesterol: 54mg
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 12g
- Protein: 30g
- Sodium: 586mg
- Potassium: 610mg
- Calcium: 109mg
- Iron: 3mg
Note: Nutrition values are estimated and can vary based on ingredients and portion sizes.
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Final Thoughts
- Turkey Sloppy Joes with Pears are the perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together in unexpected ways to create something memorable. With a great balance of flavor, texture, and nutrition, this recipe is bound to be a hit at your next meal. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or prepping lunch for the week, these sweet and savory sandwiches won’t disappoint.
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