1-First, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Once it’s warm, add the 1 medium chopped onion and 1 chopped bell pepper (or jalapeno/serrano for more heat), cooking until softened, about 5 minutes, to build a flavorful base.

2-Next, add 3 cloves of chopped garlic and cook for an additional minute, letting the aroma fill your kitchen and enhance the dish. Then, add 1 pound of ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon and draining excess fat if you prefer a leaner result.

3-Stir in 1 tablespoon of mustard, 1 tablespoon of brown sugar, 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce, 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon of chili powder, salt and pepper to taste, 1 cup of tomato sauce or ketchup, 1/4 cup of gochujang, and hot sauce to taste. For a richer flavor, simmer for at least 5 minutes until the sauce thickens, or let it go longer if you have time.

4-Finally, serve the mixture on toasted buns like brioche or potato rolls. Remember, lightly toasting the buns helps prevent sogginess, and adding cheese or slaw as a moisture barrier makes the meal even better. This step-by-step approach, including options like using ground turkey, keeps it flexible for busy parents and students.