Ingredients:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (15 ml)
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped (about 1 cup)
  • 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped (about 1 cup)
  • 1 pound (450g) ground beef (preferably 80/20 for flavour)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a kick!)
  • 1 (15 ounce/425g) can tomato sauce
  • ½ cup ketchup (120 ml)
  • ¼ cup brown sugar, packed (50g)
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce (30 ml)
  • 1 tablespoon yellow mustard (15 ml)
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (15 ml)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 6 hamburger buns
  • Butter, for toasting (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and bell pepper and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
  2. Add ground beef to the skillet and break it up with a spatula. Cook until browned, draining any excess fat.
  3. Stir in minced garlic, chili powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute more, until fragrant.
  4. Add tomato sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, yellow mustard, and apple cider vinegar to the skillet. Stir to combine.
  5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook, uncovered, for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened.
  6. While the sauce simmers, lightly butter and toast the hamburger buns, if desired.
  7. Spoon the Sloppy Joe mixture onto the toasted hamburger buns and serve immediately.