Ingredients:

  • 1 lb lean ground beef
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
  • 1 medium green bell pepper, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3/4 cup ketchup
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar, packed
  • 1 tbsp yellow mustard
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 cup beef broth
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 6 hamburger buns, split
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened

Instructions:

  1. Heat olive oil in a 12-inch cast iron skillet or large non-stick pan over medium-high heat.
  2. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned and no longer pink, then drain excess grease from the pan.
  3. Stir in the diced onion and green bell pepper; sauté for 4–5 minutes until translucent and fragrant.
  4. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until aromatic.
  5. Lower the heat to medium and stir in the ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and smoked paprika.
  6. Pour in the beef broth and stir until the mixture is fully integrated and the beef is evenly coated.
  7. Season with salt and black pepper.
  8. Simmer the mixture uncovered for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened and appears glossy.
  9. Spread softened butter on the cut sides of the hamburger buns and toast in a separate pan or toaster until golden brown and crisp.
  10. Scoop a generous portion of the beef mixture onto each toasted bun and serve immediately.