Ingredients:

  • 1.5 lbs ground beef (85/15 lean-to-fat ratio)
  • 1 tbsp neutral oil (avocado or vegetable oil)
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
  • 1 green bell pepper, finely diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup ketchup
  • 1/4 cup beef broth
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar, packed
  • 1 tbsp yellow mustard
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt to taste
  • Freshly cracked black pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Heat oil in a large 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and let it sear without stirring for 5 minutes to develop a deep brown crust. Break into small crumbles and drain all but 1 tablespoon of excess fat.
  2. Push the meat to the sides of the skillet. Add the diced onion and green bell pepper to the center and sauté for 4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic for the final 60 seconds.
  3. Reduce heat to medium-low. Incorporate the ketchup, beef broth, brown sugar, yellow mustard, Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, and smoked paprika.
  4. Simmer the mixture for approximately 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce emulsifies and achieves a glossy consistency that clings to the meat.
  5. Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve on toasted buns.