Instructions

• Heat 2 teaspoons olive oil in a Dutch oven or large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
• Add 1 pound ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until no longer pink (about 5–7 minutes). If it releases a lot of grease, drain off excess, leaving a little for flavor.
• Add ¼ cup finely chopped green bell pepper and ½ cup finely diced yellow onion. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 3 minutes, until the vegetables begin to soften.
• Add 2 cloves minced garlic and cook, stirring, for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
• Stir in 1 ½ cups ketchup, ¼ cup water, 2 tablespoons brown sugar, 1 teaspoon yellow mustard, and ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce. Mix thoroughly to combine and bring to a gentle simmer.
• Reduce heat to low or medium-low, cover, and simmer for 20–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches your desired thickness.
• Uncover, taste, and season with salt and pepper to your preference. Stir to combine.
• Remove from heat and serve warm.