Cheesy Sloppy Joes - cooking recipe

Ingredients

1/2 lb lean ground beef (7% fat or less)
1 (10 ounce) package frozen mixed vegetables
1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste
1 1/3 ounces sloppy joe seasoning mix
3 whole wheat hamburger buns, split
6 slices fat-free cheddar cheese (3/4-ounce)

Preparation

Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the beef and cook until browned, 4-5 minutes, stirring with a spoon to break it up.
Discard any drippings.
Stir in the mixed vegetables, 1 1/3 cups water, the tomato paste, and seasoning mix; bring to a boil.
Reduce the heat and simmer, stirring, until thickened, about 10 minutes.
Meanwhile, preheat the broiler.
Place the buns, cut side up, on a broiler rack and broil 3 inches from the heat until toasted, 1-2 minutes.
Top each bun half with I slice of the cheese and broil until the cheese is melted, about 1 minute longer.
Spoon 1/2 cup of the beef mixture on top of each bun half and serve at once.
PLAN AHEAD TIP.
Make a double batch of the beef mixture and freeze the extra in an airtight container up to 1 month to have on hand for another meal.