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Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio works best for flavor)
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced small
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ¾ cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4-6 hamburger buns, preferably brioche for that buttery finish

Instructions

1. Step 1: Prep Your Workspace
   Gather all ingredients measured and chopped before heating your pan. This mise en place approach saves time and prevents overcooking any elements while scrambling for the next ingredient.
2. Step 2: Sauté The Aromatics
   Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onions and bell peppers, cooking for 4-5 minutes until they begin to soften. The vegetables should become translucent but not browned—this ensures they’ll melt seamlessly into your sauce.
3. Step 3: Add The Garlic
   Introduce the minced garlic and cook for 30-45 seconds until fragrant. Pro tip: Adding garlic after the other vegetables prevents it from burning and developing bitter flavors.
4. Step 4: Brown The Beef
   Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until no pink remains, approximately 5-7 minutes. For the best texture, aim for small, uniform pieces rather than large chunks—this helps the sauce cling to every morsel.
5. Step 5: Drain Excess Fat (Optional)
   If your beef has released significant fat, consider draining about half of it. Leave some for flavor, but removing excess prevents greasy Sloppy Joes that can make your buns soggy.
6. Step 6: Create The Signature Sauce
   Stir in the ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, chili powder, paprika, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix thoroughly to coat the meat mixture.
7. Step 7: Simmer To Perfection
   Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This critical step allows flavors to meld while the sauce thickens to that perfect Sloppy Joes consistency not too runny, not too dry.
8. Step 8: Season And Serve
   Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. If the sauce seems too thick, add a tablespoon of water; if too thin, simmer uncovered for a few more minutes. Serve hot on lightly toasted buns.