Ingredients:

• 1.5 pounds ground beef (preferably a blend of chuck and sirloin)

• 1 large onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 red bell pepper, finely chopped

• 1 celery stalk, finely chopped

• 1 cup tomato sauce

• 1/2 cup ketchup

• 2 tablespoons tomato paste

• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard

• 2 tablespoons brown sugar

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• 4 brioche buns

• Butter for toasting buns

Instructions:

1. Sauté Aromatics:

• In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the chopped onion, garlic, red bell pepper, and celery until softened.

1. Brown Ground Beef:

• Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.

1. Create Sauce:

• Stir in the tomato sauce, ketchup, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.

1. Simmer:

• Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for about 20–25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken. Stir occasionally.

1. Toast the Buns:

• While the Sloppy Joe mixture is simmering, lightly butter the insides of the hamburger buns. Toast them in a separate pan until golden brown.

1. Assemble:

• Spoon the flavorful Sloppy Joe mixture onto the bottom half of each toasted bun.

1. Serve:

• Place the top half of the bun on each serving, and serve immediately.

Optional Enhancements:

Feel free to add a slice of sharp cheddar cheese on top of the Sloppy Joe mixture just before closing the bun for an extra layer of richness. You can also garnish with fresh chopped parsley or scallions for a pop of color and freshness.