In a large skillet over medium heat, add the lean ground beef. Cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until it’s browned and cooked through—about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to drain any excess fat if necessary.
Once the beef is browned, add the dried minced onion flakes and garlic powder. Stir for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
To the skillet, add the tomato paste, ketchup, water, white vinegar, dry mustard, and brown sugar. Stir well to combine all ingredients into a cohesive mixture.
Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Once the mixture is thickened and heated through, serve it on your favorite buns. You can also serve it over rice or alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal.