Add olive oil to a large skillet large skillet over medium high heat. Add the ground beef and brown until nearly cooked through; about 4-5 minutes. Add the onion to the skillet and cook for 4 minutes or until softened and translucent. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds more.
Drain excess grease and return the pan to medium heat. Add the ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, mustard, Worcestershire sauce and seasonings and cook until beef is coated and everything has warmed through. The mixture should be a bit thicker than a traditional sloppy Joe mix. Taste and adjust seasoning if desired.
While sauce cooks, place the bottom halves of the buns in a 9”x13” pan and toast for 5-6 minutes or until starting to get golden brown. Remove from the oven.
Divide meat evenly over the bottom buns; a cookie scoop works great for this. Top each with a half slice of American cheese if using, and place the top buns back on. Brush top buns all over with melted butter and sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning.
Cover lightly with foil and bake for 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted. If you like, you can place the sloppy joes back in the oven for 3-4 minutes to crisp up the top buns. Remove from the oven and serve immediately.