Beef Sloppy Joe

Instructions

1. Brown the beef
   Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Drain excess fat, leaving about 1 tablespoon in the pan.
2. Sauté the vegetables
   Add the diced onion and bell pepper to the skillet with the beef. Cook for 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the sauce ingredients
   Reduce heat to medium-low. Add the ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, yellow mustard, and tomato paste to the skillet. Stir well to combine with the beef and vegetables.
4. Season the mixture
   Sprinkle in the chili powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir to incorporate all seasonings evenly throughout the mixture.
5. Simmer to develop flavors
   Reduce heat to low and simmer the mixture for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce should thicken slightly and the flavors will meld together. If the mixture becomes too thick, add 2-3 tablespoons of water.
6. Toast the buns
   While the beef mixture is simmering, lightly toast the hamburger buns in a toaster or under a broiler until golden brown.
7. Serve
   Spoon the hot Sloppy Joe mixture onto the bottom halves of the toasted buns. Top with the other half of the bun and serve immediately while hot.