Mini Lentil Sloppy Joes

Try these delicious Mini Lentil Sloppy Joes – a healthy, plant-based twist on a classic favourite. Packed with protein-rich lentils and kid-approved flavour, perfect for family meals and fussy eaters.

Mini lentil sloppy joes served on small buns, topped with fresh herbs, a kid-friendly and healthy plant-based meal.

Mini Lentil Sloppy Joes

Recipe by Keisha PalmerCourse: Lunch

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

10

minutes

Cooking time

20

minutes

Total time

30

minutes

We’ve given a playful, plant-based twist to a classic comfort food with our Mini Lentil Sloppy Joes. Instead of meat, we’ve used protein-rich red lentils simmered in a mild, tomato-based sauce that’s both hearty and gentle on little taste buds. Served in soft mini buns, they’re the perfect size for children’s hands, and they make mealtimes fun while sneaking in fibre, iron and plant-based protein. A brilliant recipe for busy weeknights that the whole family can enjoy.

Ingredients

• 150g dried red lentils, rinsed

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 1 small carrot, grated

• ½ red pepper, finely chopped

• 1 garlic clove, finely chopped (optional for kids)

• 400g tin chopped tomatoes

• 1 tbsp tomato purée

• 1 tsp mild paprika

• 1 tsp ground cumin

• 250ml low-salt vegetable stock

• 8 mini wholemeal buns or slider rolls

Directions

• Heat the olive oil in a medium pan. Add the onion, carrot and red pepper, and cook gently for 5 minutes until soft.
• Stir in the garlic, paprika and cumin. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
• Add the lentils, chopped tomatoes, tomato purée and vegetable stock. Stir well.
• Simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the lentils are tender and the sauce has thickened.
• Lightly toast the mini buns.
• Spoon the lentil mixture into the buns and serve warm.

Key Notes

• If your child prefers less saucy food, cook the lentil mix a little longer so it thickens into more of a spread.
• Add a handful of grated courgette or extra veg into the sauce — the lentils hide it well!
• For adults, spice it up with a dash of chilli powder or serve with pickles.
• The lentil mixture can be made ahead and frozen in portions for quick dinners.

Variation Tips

Swap lentils for black beans or chickpeas for a heartier texture.

Add finely chopped mushrooms or carrots to sneak in extra veggies.

Use whole-wheat buns, wraps, or even lettuce cups for variety.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

Not cooking the lentils long enough, leaving them too firm.

Making the sauce too runny by skipping simmer time.

Overloading the bun, which makes it fall apart and messy.