Apple Tarragon Turkey Sloppy Joes: A Delicious Twist on a Classic
Sloppy Joes are a beloved comfort food, and for good reason! They’re quick, easy, and undeniably delicious. But sometimes, we crave a little something *extra*. Enter these Apple Tarragon Turkey Sloppy Joes – a sophisticated yet simple upgrade to the classic. This recipe uses lean ground turkey, sweet and tart apples, and a fragrant tarragon-infused tomato sauce to create a flavor explosion that will have everyone asking for seconds. Get ready to ditch the same-old routine and embrace this exciting new twist!
## Why You’ll Love This Recipe
* **Flavorful and Unique:** The combination of apples, tarragon, and turkey creates a truly unforgettable flavor profile. It’s sweet, savory, and herbaceous all in one bite.
* **Healthier Than Traditional Sloppy Joes:** Using ground turkey instead of ground beef significantly reduces the fat content. The addition of apples also adds fiber and vitamins.
* **Quick and Easy to Make:** This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
* **Kid-Friendly (and Adult-Approved!):** Even picky eaters will love the subtle sweetness of the apples and the familiar comfort of a Sloppy Joe.
* **Versatile:** Serve these Sloppy Joes on buns, lettuce wraps, or even over mashed potatoes for a variety of options.
## Ingredients You’ll Need
Before you start cooking, gather these ingredients:
* **1 pound ground turkey:** Lean ground turkey is the star of the show, providing a healthier alternative to ground beef. Look for 93% lean or higher.
* **1 tablespoon olive oil:** Used for sautéing the vegetables and adding a touch of richness.
* **1 medium onion, chopped:** Adds a savory base to the sauce.
* **2 cloves garlic, minced:** Essential for adding a pungent and aromatic flavor.
* **1 medium apple, peeled, cored, and diced:** Use a sweet and tart apple variety like Honeycrisp, Gala, or Fuji. Granny Smith can also work, but may need a touch more sweetener in the sauce.
* **1/2 cup tomato paste:** Provides a concentrated tomato flavor and helps to thicken the sauce.
* **1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained:** Adds texture and acidity to the sauce.
* **1/4 cup apple cider vinegar:** Adds a tangy kick and balances the sweetness of the apples.
* **2 tablespoons brown sugar:** Enhances the sweetness of the apples and adds a molasses-like depth of flavor.
* **1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce:** Adds umami and complexity to the sauce.
* **1 teaspoon dried tarragon:** This herb is the secret ingredient that elevates this recipe to the next level. Its slightly anise-like flavor pairs perfectly with the apples and turkey.
* **1/2 teaspoon salt:** Enhances the other flavors.
* **1/4 teaspoon black pepper:** Adds a touch of spice.
* **6 hamburger buns:** Choose your favorite type of bun. Brioche, potato, or even gluten-free buns work well.
* **Optional toppings:** Lettuce, sliced tomatoes, pickles, shredded cheese, Dijon mustard.
## Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create the perfect Apple Tarragon Turkey Sloppy Joes:
**Step 1: Brown the Turkey**
* Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
* Add the ground turkey and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s browned and cooked through. Drain off any excess grease.
**Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables**
* Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
* Add the minced garlic and diced apple and cook for another 3-5 minutes, until the apples are slightly softened.
**Step 3: Make the Sauce**
* Stir in the tomato paste, diced tomatoes (undrained), apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, dried tarragon, salt, and pepper.
* Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and the flavors have melded together.
**Step 4: Assemble the Sloppy Joes**
* Spoon the turkey mixture onto the hamburger buns.
* Top with your favorite toppings, such as lettuce, sliced tomatoes, pickles, shredded cheese, or Dijon mustard.
* Serve immediately and enjoy!
## Tips and Variations
* **Adjust the sweetness:** If you prefer a less sweet Sloppy Joe, reduce the amount of brown sugar. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
* **Use different apples:** Experiment with different apple varieties to find your favorite flavor combination. Braeburn or Pink Lady apples would also work well.
* **Add more vegetables:** Sneak in some extra veggies by adding diced bell peppers, celery, or carrots to the skillet along with the onion.
* **Make it spicy:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a little kick.
* **Use fresh tarragon:** If you have fresh tarragon on hand, use 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh tarragon instead of 1 teaspoon of dried tarragon. Add it towards the end of the cooking time to preserve its flavor.
* **Make it ahead:** The turkey mixture can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
* **Freezing Instructions:** Let the mixture cool completely. Then, transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
* **Serving Suggestions:** Serve with a side of coleslaw, potato salad, or sweet potato fries for a complete meal. These Sloppy Joes are also great served over baked potatoes or sweet potatoes.
## Nutritional Information (Approximate)
* Calories: 350-450 per serving (depending on bun and toppings)
* Fat: 15-25 grams
* Protein: 25-35 grams
* Carbohydrates: 30-40 grams
## Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
**Q: Can I use ground chicken instead of ground turkey?**
A: Yes, you can substitute ground chicken for ground turkey in this recipe. The flavor will be slightly different, but it will still be delicious.
**Q: Can I make this recipe vegetarian?**
A: Yes, you can make this recipe vegetarian by substituting the ground turkey with crumbled plant-based ground meat alternative. Also ensure the worcestershire sauce is vegetarian (some contain anchovies). You may also need to adjust the cooking time slightly.
**Q: How do I store leftovers?**
A: Store any leftover turkey mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
**Q: Can I use canned apple pie filling instead of fresh apples?**
A: While it might be tempting, canned apple pie filling is not recommended. It’s much sweeter and has a different texture than fresh apples. Fresh apples will provide a better flavor and texture for this recipe.
**Q: What kind of buns are best for Sloppy Joes?**
A: Any type of hamburger bun will work, but brioche, potato, or pretzel buns are particularly delicious. Look for buns that are sturdy enough to hold the filling without getting soggy.
**Q: Can I add cheese to these Sloppy Joes?**
A: Absolutely! Cheese is a great addition to these Sloppy Joes. Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack cheese would all be delicious options.
## Conclusion
These Apple Tarragon Turkey Sloppy Joes are a delightful and flavorful twist on a classic comfort food. The combination of sweet apples, savory turkey, and fragrant tarragon creates a truly unforgettable meal. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish for a gathering, this recipe is sure to be a hit. So, ditch the same old Sloppy Joe routine and give this recipe a try. You won’t be disappointed!
Enjoy this flavorful and healthier take on a classic! Let me know in the comments below if you tried this recipe and how you liked it!