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
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1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
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1 small onion, finely diced
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1/2 cup bell pepper, finely diced (optional)
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1 cup Dr. Pepper soda
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1/2 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand)
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2 tablespoons ketchup
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1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
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1 tablespoon tomato paste
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon smoked paprika
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Salt and pepper to taste
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4-6 hamburger buns
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Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, sliced pickles, coleslaw
Instructions
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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.
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Sauté Veggies: In the same skillet, sauté onion and bell pepper for 3–4 minutes until soft.
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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.
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Simmer: Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10–15 minutes until the sauce thickens and clings to the meat.
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Assemble: Toast buns if desired. Spoon meat mixture onto buns. Add toppings like cheddar cheese, pickles, or coleslaw.
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Serve: Enjoy hot with chips, fries, or salad.
Notes
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Dr. Pepper adds a rich, slightly sweet flavor—use root beer or cola as an alternative.
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Make ahead and reheat for easy meal prep or party serving.
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Ground turkey works great for a leaner version.