Servings: 8 servings
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons salted butter, plus extra for the rolls
– 2 1/2 pounds ground beef
– 5 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 large green bell pepper, diced
– 1/2 large onion, diced
– 1 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 1/2 cups ketchup
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 2 teaspoons chili powder, plus more to taste
– 1 teaspoon dry mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, plus more to taste
– 8 kaiser rolls, split
– 8 slices cheese (cheddar, American, pepper jack – optional)
– Hot sauce, for serving
– Kettle-cooked potato chips, for serving
– 8 dill pickle spears, for serving
Directions:
1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, for about 5 to 7 minutes. Drain off most of the fat.
2. Add the garlic, bell pepper, onion, salt, and black pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables start to soften, for about 5 to 7 minutes. Transfer the mixture to a 6-quart slow cooker.
3. Add ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, dry mustard, red pepper flakes, and 1/2 cup water. Stir well to combine.
4. Cook on high for 2 hours or on low for 4 hours until the flavors intensify and the mixture thickens slightly and deepens in color. Adjust seasonings to taste.
5. Heat a griddle or skillet over medium heat. Spread butter on the cut sides of the rolls and toast them buttered-side down until golden brown, for about 1 to 2 minutes.
6. Spoon about 1/2 cup of the meat mixture onto each roll, top with cheese slices if desired. Serve with hot sauce, chips, and a pickle.
Enjoy your meal!
