Ingredients:

  • 1.5 lbs (680g) ground beef, 80/20 blend
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 green bell pepper, finely diced
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) ketchup
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 tablespoons (30ml) brown sugar, packed
  • 1 tablespoon (15ml) yellow mustard
  • 1 teaspoon (5ml) smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) chili powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon (1.25ml) ground black pepper
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) beef broth or water
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt to taste
  • 4 brioche buns, or your favourite hamburger buns
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, sliced pickles, coleslaw

Instructions:

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
  2. Add diced onion and green bell pepper to the skillet. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, yellow mustard, smoked paprika, chili powder, and black pepper.
  4. Pour the sauce mixture over the ground beef and vegetables. Add beef broth (or water). Stir to combine. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low.
  5. Simmer uncovered for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened to your liking. Adjust seasoning with salt to taste.
  6. While the beef simmers, slice the brioche buns in half. Brush the cut sides with melted butter.
  7. Toast the buns, cut-side up, in a dry skillet or under a broiler until golden brown.
  8. Spoon the ground beef mixture generously onto the bottom buns. Top with your favorite toppings (cheddar cheese, pickles, coleslaw). Place the top buns on top and serve immediately.