Start by chopping the onion and bell pepper. Make sure they are diced finely. This allows them to cook properly and blend seamlessly into the filling.

In a large pan, heat a bit of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add your diced onions and bell peppers. Sauté for about 5 minutes until they soften. The aroma filling your kitchen is just the warm-up you need!

Introduce the lean ground beef or turkey into the pan. Use a wooden spoon to break it up as it cooks. Brown the meat for about 7-10 minutes until it’s fully cooked and no longer pink.

Next, reduce the heat and add your tomato purée, kidney beans, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, honey, apple cider vinegar, and chili powder. Stir well to combine everything. Let that simmer for about 10 minutes. This is where the flavors meld and become one tasty filling.

Taste your mixture and season with freshly ground black pepper as desired. Remember, a little pepper can go a long way!

While the filling simmers, prepare your buns. If you like them crispy, you can toast them in the oven for a few minutes. This step elevates your sloppy Joe experience to a whole new level.

Once your filling is ready, it’s time to serve. Spoon a generous amount onto each bun, add a handful of shredded lettuce, and if you want a kick, sprinkle a bit of smoked paprika on top. Enjoy your plate of deliciousness!