In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat if needed.

Return the skillet to medium heat and add ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well and cook for about 5 minutes until heated through and flavors meld.

While the meat mixture simmers, toast the hamburger buns in the oven at 400°F for about 4-8 minutes until golden.

Assemble the sloppy joes by spooning the meat mixture onto the toasted buns. Serve immediately with pickles if desired.