2 tablespoons butter, plus more for buttering rolls

2 ½ pounds ground beef

½ large onion, diced

1 large green bell pepper, diced

5 garlic cloves, minced

1 ½ cups ketchup

2 tablespoons brown sugar

2 teaspoons chili powder, plus more to taste

1 teaspoon dry mustard

½ teaspoon red pepper flakes, plus more to taste

1 cup water

Kosher salt, to taste

Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

2 tablespoons tomato paste (optional)

Worcestershire sauce, to taste

Tabasco sauce, to taste (optional)

8 Kaiser rolls

Kettle cooked potato chips, for serving

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and melt the butter.
Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, about 7–8 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
Stir in the onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
Mix in ketchup, brown sugar, chili powder, dry mustard, red pepper flakes, and water. Stir well to combine.
Add tomato paste (if using), Worcestershire sauce, and Tabasco (if desired). Simmer on low heat for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.
Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Adjust spices to your preference.
Lightly butter and toast the Kaiser rolls.
Spoon the beef mixture onto the rolls and serve with kettle cooked potato chips.

Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.

Add shredded carrots or zucchini for extra vegetables.

Use brioche buns or whole wheat rolls instead of Kaiser rolls.

Add smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.

Top with shredded cheese or pickles for extra flavor.

Leftovers can be refrigerated up to 4 days or frozen for 3 months.