Ground beef may be the usual centerpiece of a classic sloppy joe, but these family-friendly favorites can indeed be made meatless. All it takes is one key ingredient: tofu. Even if you think you're not a fan of tofu or if you've simply never tried it before, we're here to tell you that it's just what you need to use in these hearty, flavor-packed Vegetarian Sloppy Joes from Food Network Magazine.

Since tofu on its own is mild, it picks up the taste of whatever you cook it in; think of it as a blank culinary canvas. And when you opt for the extra-firm tofu, which this recipe calls for, it can be crumbled and sauteed just like ground meat. Here it's simmered in a homemade sloppy joe sauce studded with fresh vegetables and laced with bold chili and garlic powders, plus tangy ketchup and a splash of chili sauce. For added taste and texture, finish each sloppy joe with a slice of gooey cheddar cheese and crunchy pickles, then round out the dish with a tried-and-true sloppy joe side dish: golden Tater Tots.

Get the Recipe: Vegetarian Sloppy Joes from Food Network Magazine

Meatless Monday, an international movement, encourages people everywhere to cut meat one day a week for personal and planetary health. Browse more meat-free recipes.

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