If you love classic comfort food with a wholesome, plant-based twist, these BBQ Lentil Sloppy Joes will absolutely sweep you off your feet! They’re hearty, flavorful, and saucy in all the best ways—a satisfying sandwich that will quickly become a weeknight favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ultimate BBQ Flavor, No Meat Needed: Sweet, smoky, and just a little tangy, these BBQ Lentil Sloppy Joes are bursting with bold taste thanks to a dreamy medley of spices and molasses.
- Satisfying, Hearty Texture: The tender lentils soak up all the saucy goodness, delivering that classic “messy joe” experience—minus any heaviness or grease.
- Fast Weeknight-Friendly: The pressure cooker does most of the work, so you get a hot and tasty dinner on the table in under an hour (with almost no babysitting required).
- Totally Customizable: Whether you’re gluten-free, vegan, or just love piling on fresh toppings, this recipe invites you to make it your own!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things simple but doesn’t skimp on flavor! Each ingredient brings its own magic—fire-roasted depth from the smoked paprika, a pop of tang from apple cider vinegar, and of course, lentils for all that smart plant-based protein power. Here’s what makes these BBQ Lentil Sloppy Joes so irresistible:
- Pompeian Robust Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Adds richness and helps sauté the veggies for a flavorful base.
- Yellow Onion: Sweetens and softens, creating the backbone of any good Sloppy Joe filling.
- Carrot: Diced carrot brings a gentle sweetness, earthy undertones, and gorgeous color to every bite.
- Garlic: Two cloves (freshly minced!) will give the sauce a fantastic aromatic lift.
- Brown Lentils: These humble legumes become beautifully hearty and absorb every bit of that saucy BBQ flavor.
- Water: Just enough to cook the lentils until perfect—no mushiness allowed!
- Tomato Paste: Packs double-concentrated tomato flavor; thickens and sweetens the sauce naturally.
- Pompeian Organic Apple Cider Vinegar: For that craveable tang that makes classic BBQ shine!
- Blackstrap Molasses: Adds deep, bittersweet notes and a signature BBQ taste.
- Applesauce: Sneaks in extra moisture and natural sweetness (plus, it makes the texture extra luscious).
- Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: Double-down on that allium flavor without overpowering the sauce.
- Mustard: A pop of sharpness to round out the sauce—classic yellow or Dijon, dealer’s choice!
- Salt & Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning and balance.
- Paprika & Cayenne: Paprika brings subtle smokiness, while cayenne adds as much kick as you like.
- Whole Wheat Hamburger Buns: Hearty, nutty, and perfect for sopping up all that delicious filling! (Sub gluten-free buns if needed.)
- Optional Toppings: Crunchy cabbage, crisp lettuce, creamy avocado, and your favorite condiments to pile on as high as you want.
Variations
Making these BBQ Lentil Sloppy Joes is all about flexibility! Mix, match, or swap in your favorites—it’s super easy to personalize for what you have on hand, your dietary needs, or even your latest flavor craving.
- Bean Exchange: No brown lentils? Green lentils or canned black beans also work well for a slightly different texture and taste.
- Veggie Boost: Toss in chopped bell peppers, spinach, or shredded zucchini for extra color, nutrients, and a touch of sweetness.
- Spice Level: Like it hotter? Double up on the cayenne, or stir in a splash of hot sauce at the end.
- Sauce Swap: Try a chipotle BBQ sauce or smoky vegan Worcestershire for a bolder, earthier undertone.
- Wrap It Up: Serve the filling in lettuce wraps, tortillas, or over a warm baked potato for a fun gluten-free or low-carb twist!
How to Make BBQ Lentil Sloppy Joes
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating your pressure cooker on the sauté function (medium heat is perfect). Drizzle in the Pompeian Robust Extra Virgin Olive Oil, then toss in the diced onion. Let it cook, stirring now and then, for about five minutes—just until the onion turns golden and sweet-smelling. Next, add the diced carrot, and continue cooking (and stirring!) for about 8 minutes. The vegetables should be nice and tender but not mushy. Add the garlic and let it bloom for another 1–2 minutes. Your kitchen will smell incredible!
Step 2: Add Lentils & Sauce Ingredients
Once the vegetables are ready, turn off the sauté function. Now, toss in the lentils, water, tomato paste, apple cider vinegar, blackstrap molasses, applesauce, garlic powder, onion powder, mustard, salt, black pepper, paprika, and a dash of cayenne. Stir it all together so every lentil gets happily coated in that flavorful mixture. You’re already halfway to BBQ Lentil Sloppy Joe bliss!
Step 3: Pressure Cook to Perfection
Lock the pressure cooker lid in place and set the vent to sealing. Choose the “beans” function and set it for 20 minutes on high pressure. Once you press start, you get to kick back while the magic happens. When the cooking is done, let the pressure naturally release for five minutes, then carefully vent the remaining steam. When the float valve drops, open the lid and give everything a good mix—your filling should be thick, saucy, and mouthwateringly fragrant.
Step 4: Assemble and Serve
Spoon the warm BBQ lentil mixture generously onto whole wheat buns (use gluten-free if you like). Add any toppings your heart desires: crisp shredded cabbage, thinly sliced red onion, creamy avocado, tangy ketchup, spicy mustard—you name it! Serve right away while it’s still steamy and saucy.
Pro Tips for Making BBQ Lentil Sloppy Joes
- Even Sauté: Take your time sautéing onions and carrots—they should be really soft for perfect saucy texture once the lentils are added.
- Don’t Skip the Natural Release: Allowing at least five minutes of natural pressure release helps keep your lentils plump and prevents the sauce from splattering out the vent.
- Adjust Consistency: If your filling is too thick after cooking, stir in a splash of water; if it’s too saucy, turn on sauté for two minutes to cook off extra liquid.
- Batch Cooking: Double the recipe for meal prep—BBQ Lentil Sloppy Joes taste even better the next day (and freeze like a dream)!
How to Serve BBQ Lentil Sloppy Joes
Garnishes
Bring even more color and crunch to your BBQ Lentil Sloppy Joes by piling on shredded red cabbage, thinly sliced red onion, ribbons of crunchy lettuce, (vegan) mayo, a drizzle of yellow mustard, or cool slices of ripe avocado. These garnishes not only taste amazing—they make every bite pop with extra freshness!
Side Dishes
Classic sides are the name of the game! Think crispy sweet potato fries, tangy coleslaw, fresh green salad, or even simple oven-roasted veggies. For a real BBQ plate, creamy potato salad or dill pickles turn these BBQ Lentil Sloppy Joes into a complete (and deeply satisfying) meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your BBQ Lentil Sloppy Joes filling atop baked potatoes, inside toasted pita pockets, or even scoop it over crispy polenta rounds for a fun twist. For parties, mini slider buns make adorable hand-held bites—and kid-sized portions always disappear in a flash!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover BBQ Lentil Sloppy Joes mixture can be cooled and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. It actually tastes even better as those BBQ flavors continue to mingle!
Freezing
To freeze, spoon the completely cooled lentil filling into freezer-safe bags or containers (leave a little space for expansion). Freeze for up to three months—just thaw overnight in the fridge when you’re ready for Sloppy Joe night again.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if it’s too thick. Alternatively, microwave individual portions covered (to avoid splatters) until hot all the way through. Give it a stir and pile high on your favorite buns!
FAQs
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Can I make BBQ Lentil Sloppy Joes without a pressure cooker?
Absolutely! You can make this recipe on the stovetop in a large pot or Dutch oven. Follow the sautéing instructions for the veggies, then add the lentils and sauce ingredients. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer (covered) for 30–35 minutes or until the lentils are tender and the sauce has thickened. Stir occasionally and add more water if needed.
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Are BBQ Lentil Sloppy Joes gluten-free?
The filling is naturally gluten-free! To keep the entire recipe gluten-free, simply use gluten-free buns, wraps, or serve over baked sweet potatoes.
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Can I use green or red lentils?
Green lentils work really well as a swap for brown lentils and will provide a similar bite. Red lentils, however, tend to break down much more and result in a softer, almost spread-like texture (still delicious, just different from the classic Sloppy Joe texture).
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What’s the best way to reheat leftovers for packed lunches?
For packed lunches, reheat the lentil mixture in the microwave until piping hot, then pack it separately from the bun to keep things from getting soggy. Assemble your Sloppy Joe just before you eat for the freshest experience!
Final Thoughts
I can’t wait for you to take your first, saucy, joyfully messy bite of these BBQ Lentil Sloppy Joes! They’re comfort food with a nourishing twist and sure to make everyone at the table happy. Give them a try soon—there’s nothing like sharing this easy, plant-powered classic with your favorite people!
Print
BBQ Lentil Sloppy Joes Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 35 mins
- Total Time: 50 mins
- Yield: 4 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Pressure Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These BBQ Lentil Sloppy Joes are a delicious, plant-based twist on a classic comfort food favorite. Hearty brown lentils are cooked in a savory and slightly sweet barbecue sauce, then served on whole wheat buns with your favorite toppings. Easy to make and packed with flavor, this recipe is sure to become a new family favorite!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon Pompeian Robust Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 1 medium carrot, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup dry brown lentils
- 2 1/2 cups water
- 1 6–ounce can tomato paste
- 3 tablespoons Pompeian Organic Apple Cider Vinegar
- 2 tablespoons blackstrap molasses
- 2 tablespoons applesauce
Seasonings:
- 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons onion powder
- 1 teaspoon mustard
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Dash of ground cayenne
For Serving:
- 4 whole wheat hamburger buns*
- Optional toppings: red cabbage, red onion, lettuce, avocado, mustard, ketchup
Instructions
- Sauté Vegetables: Set the pressure cooker to the sauté function on medium heat. Cook onion for 5 minutes, then add carrot and cook for 8 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Add Ingredients: Stir in lentils, water, tomato paste, vinegar, molasses, applesauce, and seasonings. Lock the lid and cook on high pressure for 20 minutes.
- Release Steam: Allow pressure to release naturally for 5 minutes, then manually release. Serve on buns with desired toppings.
Notes
- *Use gluten-free buns if you have an allergy.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 Sloppy Joe on Bun
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 12g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
