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A Sloppy Joe is a loose-meat sandwich made with ground beef, onions, and a sweet-tangy tomato-based sauce, served on a hamburger bun. It's a classic American comfort food, often associated with diners, school lunches, and quick weeknight meals.
A typical Sloppy Joe is moderately high in protein from the beef and carbohydrates from the bun and sauce, with a notable amount of fat depending on the meat used. A standard serving provides around 350-450 calories, along with iron, B vitamins, and some vitamin C from the tomatoes.
The dish is a cultural icon of mid-20th century American convenience cooking, symbolizing hearty, no-fuss home meals. Its name playfully describes the messy, overflowing nature of the sandwich, which is part of its enduring, informal charm.