Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground beef (85% lean)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped (about 1/2 cup or 75 g)
  • 1 small green bell pepper, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup tomato sauce
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon mustard (yellow or Dijon)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 4 hamburger buns, toasted
  • Optional toppings: sliced pickles, shredded cheese, or coleslaw

Instructions:

  1. Heat the skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and bell pepper; sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
  2. Stir in minced garlic; cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
  3. Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula (about 5-7 minutes). Drain excess fat if necessary.
  4. Stir in tomato sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, chili powder, and mustard. Season with salt and pepper.
  5. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens.
  6. Spoon the sloppy joe mixture into toasted buns. Add desired toppings and serve immediately, while hot.