1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef, and cook until browned, breaking it into small crumbles as it cooks. Drain excess grease if needed.

2. Add olive oil or butter if the skillet is dry, then stir in the onion and green bell pepper. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes, until softened.

3. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds, just until fragrant.

4. Add the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute, stirring it into the beef and vegetables.

5. Stir in the ketchup, tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, yellow mustard, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper.

6. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer uncovered for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is thick and glossy.

7. Toast the hamburger buns while the filling simmers.

8. Spoon the hot Sloppy Joe filling onto the toasted buns, add pickles if desired, and serve warm.