Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs (900g) ground beef (ideally 80/20 for flavour)
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 ½ cups (355ml) ketchup
  • ½ cup (120ml) water
  • ¼ cup (60ml) Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar, packed
  • 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 6 hamburger buns, toasted (brioche buns are lush!)
  • Optional toppings: coleslaw, pickles, shredded cheese

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 chopped onion and bell pepper to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  3. Stir in ketchup, water, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, yellow mustard, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
  4. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 20 minutes, or up to 45 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld. The longer it simmers, the better it gets!
  5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or brown sugar to your liking.
  6. Spoon the Sloppy Joe mixture onto toasted hamburger buns. Add your favourite toppings and tuck in.