Ingredients:

  • 1 tbsp (15ml) olive oil
  • 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped (approx. 1 cup / 150g)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced (approx. 2 tsp / 6g)
  • 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped (approx. 1 cup / 150g)
  • 1.5 lbs (680g) ground beef (20% fat is ideal for flavor)
  • 1 tsp (5ml) kosher salt
  • 1/2 tsp (2.5ml) black pepper
  • 1 tbsp (15ml) smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp (2.5ml) chili powder
  • 1/4 tsp (1.25ml) cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
  • 1 (15 oz / 425g) can tomato sauce
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) ketchup
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 tbsp (30ml) brown sugar, packed
  • 1 tbsp (15ml) yellow mustard
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) beef broth (or water)
  • 1 tbsp (15ml) apple cider vinegar
  • 6 hamburger buns
  • Optional toppings: coleslaw, pickles, cheese slices, sliced onions, potato chips

Instructions:

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and bell pepper and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute more, until fragrant.
  2. Add ground beef to the skillet and break it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned, draining off any excess grease.
  3. Season the beef with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, chili powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir to combine.
  4. Add tomato sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, mustard, beef broth, and apple cider vinegar to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
  5. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 20 minutes, or up to 45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened and the flavors have melded.
  6. Spoon the Sloppy Joe mixture onto hamburger buns. Top with your favourite toppings. Serve immediately.