1-First, mix the tomato sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper in a bowl until it’s all combined. This step sets the base for that amazing flavor you crave in classic Sloppy Joes.

2-Next, heat a large pot over medium-low heat with a few drops of olive oil, and sauté the minced garlic until it’s fragrant and lightly golden. It’s a small touch that makes a big difference in the taste!

3-Add the ground meat, crank up the heat to medium or medium-high, and cook until it’s browned with no pink left, breaking it apart as it goes. Don’t forget to drain any excess grease to keep things from getting too oily.

4-Pour the sauce over the meat, give it a good stir, and let it simmer for at least 10 minutes, stirring now and then. For even deeper flavor, simmer it 30 to 45 minutes on low heat, and add a bit of water if it thickens up too much.

5-Serve it warm on buns or rolls, and top with sliced pickles if you’re feeling fancy. If you added onion and bell pepper, sauté them first, set them aside, cook the meat, then mix everything back in with the sauce.