Butternut Squash Sloppy Joes Vegan Recipe Made Easy

Sloppy joes are a classic comfort food favorite, but traditional recipes often rely heavily on ground beef and sugary sauces. If you’re looking for a delicious, hearty, and plant-based twist, this Butternut Squash Sloppy Joes Vegan Recipe is the perfect solution.

Butternut squash offers a naturally sweet and creamy texture that mimics the satisfying mouthfeel of the traditional filling, while keeping the dish wholesome and nutritious. Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or simply wanting to add more veggies to your diet, these sloppy joes make a fantastic weeknight dinner.

Plus, they’re packed with fiber, vitamins, and flavor, making them a comforting yet guilt-free meal.

In this recipe, we’ll walk you through the simple steps to transform butternut squash into a savory, tangy filling that pairs perfectly with your favorite buns. Ready to impress your taste buds and maybe even convert a few meat-eaters?

Let’s dive right in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe stands out for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to make and requires no complicated ingredients or techniques.

The butternut squash cooks down into a luscious, saucy base that absorbs a rich medley of spices and tangy tomato flavors beautifully.

Secondly, these sloppy joes are nutrient-dense, offering a good dose of beta-carotene, fiber, and essential vitamins from the squash, onions, and peppers. It’s a great way to sneak extra veggies into your family’s meal without sacrificing flavor.

Finally, this dish is versatile. You can easily customize the spice level, swap out buns for lettuce wraps to keep it low-carb, or add other vegetables like mushrooms or lentils for added protein.

It’s a crowd-pleaser that suits many dietary preferences, making it a reliable go-to for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

• 1 small butternut squash (about 2 pounds), peeled, seeded, and diced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup water or vegetable broth
• 4-6 vegan hamburger buns

Equipment

• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Mixing spoon or spatula
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Peeler (for butternut squash)
• Can opener
• Food processor or potato masher (optional, for texture)

Instructions

1. Prepare the butternut squash: Peel the squash carefully using a vegetable peeler. Cut it in half lengthwise, scoop out the seeds, then dice it into small, approximately 1/2-inch cubes for even cooking.
2. Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add garlic and diced red bell pepper, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant and softened.
3. Add the butternut squash: Toss the diced squash into the skillet. Stir well to combine with the sautéed veggies. Pour in the water or vegetable broth to help steam and soften the squash. Cover and cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the squash is tender.
4. Mix in tomato ingredients: Stir in the tomato sauce, tomato paste, apple cider vinegar, and maple syrup. Mix thoroughly to coat all the veggies evenly with the tomato base.
5. Season your sloppy joe filling: Add smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir well and let the mixture simmer uncovered for 10 minutes over low heat, allowing it to thicken. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
6. Adjust the texture: For a chunkier texture, leave as is. If you prefer a smoother, more “meaty” consistency, pulse the mixture a few times in a food processor or mash lightly with a potato masher.
7. Toast the buns: While the filling simmers, lightly toast your vegan buns in a toaster or oven for a warm, crispy finish.
8. Assemble and serve: Spoon a generous amount of the butternut squash sloppy joe filling onto each bun. Serve immediately with your favorite sides.

Tips & Variations

Make sure to dice the butternut squash evenly to ensure consistent cooking.

• Add protein boost: Stir in cooked lentils or crumbled tempeh during step 4 for extra protein and texture.
• Spice it up: Increase the chili powder or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick, or add a dash of hot sauce.
• Sweeten naturally: Use maple syrup or agave nectar, but reduce slightly if you prefer less sweetness.
• Use different buns: Try whole wheat, gluten-free, or even lettuce wraps for a lighter option.
• Make it smoky: Add a dash of liquid smoke or smoked sea salt if you want deeper smoky flavor without meat.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vegan butternut squash sloppy joe pairs wonderfully with crisp, fresh sides. Consider serving it alongside a crunchy cabbage slaw or a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness of the filling.

Roasted sweet potato fries or baked kale chips also make excellent companions.

For a fun twist, try topping your sloppy joes with sliced avocado or pickled jalapeños. You can also explore dipping options like vegan ranch or smoky BBQ sauce for extra flavor.

If you’re interested in exploring more plant-based recipes, check out our Lemon Ricotta Pasta With Arugula Recipe or the savory Lion’S Mane Mushroom Crumble Recipes.

Conclusion

Embracing plant-based meals doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice flavor or comfort, and this Butternut Squash Sloppy Joes Vegan Recipe proves just that. The natural sweetness of the squash combined with smoky spices and tangy tomato sauce creates a filling that’s both satisfying and nutritious.

It’s perfect for busy weeknights, casual gatherings, or anytime you crave a cozy meal without the heaviness of meat.

With easy-to-find ingredients and minimal prep, this recipe is a great addition to your plant-based repertoire. Plus, it invites creativity with its flexible seasoning and texture options.

Don’t forget to explore other delicious recipes on our site like the Instant Pot Rabbit Recipe or the refreshing Lemon Straws Recipe for a full culinary adventure. Happy cooking!

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