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Dr. Pepper Barbecue Sloppy Joes

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  • Author: Olivia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4–6 sandwiches
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Description

These Dr. Pepper Barbecue Sloppy Joes deliver a sweet, smoky, and savory twist on the classic comfort food sandwich. Made with ground beef, your favorite BBQ sauce, and a splash of Dr. Pepper for rich flavor depth, these sloppy joes are perfect for weeknight dinners, cookouts, or casual gatherings. Quick, easy, and irresistibly delicious!


Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)

  • 1 small onion, finely diced

  • 1/2 cup bell pepper, finely diced (optional)

  • 1 cup Dr. Pepper soda

  • 1/2 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand)

  • 2 tablespoons ketchup

  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • 4-6 hamburger buns

  • Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, sliced pickles, coleslaw


Instructions

  • Cook the Meat: In a skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it apart until fully cooked. Drain excess grease and set meat aside.

  • Sauté Veggies: In the same skillet, sauté onion and bell pepper for 3–4 minutes until soft.

  • Mix the Sauce: Return beef to skillet. Add Dr. Pepper, BBQ sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire, tomato paste, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well.

  • Simmer: Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10–15 minutes until the sauce thickens and clings to the meat.

  • Assemble: Toast buns if desired. Spoon meat mixture onto buns. Add toppings like cheddar cheese, pickles, or coleslaw.

  • Serve: Enjoy hot with chips, fries, or salad.


Notes

  • Dr. Pepper adds a rich, slightly sweet flavor—use root beer or cola as an alternative.

  • Make ahead and reheat for easy meal prep or party serving.

  • Ground turkey works great for a leaner version.