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Grandma Jo's Pantry Magic

A crispy, saucy dish made with ground beef and pantry staples, perfect for family dinners and gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 10 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or canola oil
  • 2 pounds ground beef (80–85% lean)
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 1 small green bell pepper, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1.5 teaspoons kosher salt, plus more to taste
  • 0.5 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder (mild)
  • 0.5 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 0.25 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional) For a little heat
  • 1 15-ounce can tomato sauce
  • 0.5 cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar, packed
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 0.5 cup water
  • 2 tablespoons butter, cut into small pieces (for baking on top)
  • 10-12 pieces hamburger buns, split
  • 2 tablespoons softened butter (for toasting buns)
  • 6-8 slices American or cheddar cheese (optional, for serving)
  • Optional garnish: sliced dill pickles and pickled jalapeños (for serving)

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Warm the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  3. Add the ground beef and cook until well browned.
  4. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, cooking until soft, then stir in the garlic.
  5. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, chili powder, oregano, and red pepper flakes.
  6. Pour in the tomato sauce, ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, vinegar, and water. Simmer until thickened.
Baking
  1. Transfer the mixture to a casserole dish and top with butter.
  2. Bake uncovered for 12-15 minutes until bubbly.
Serving
  1. Toast the hamburger buns and serve the mixture on the buns with cheese and garnishes if desired.

Notes

Adjust seasonings to your taste, and consider using different types of ground meat or customizable ingredients such as beans, corn, or various cheeses.