Description
These Dr. Pepper Barbecue Sloppy Joes take the classic sandwich to the next level with a sweet and tangy Dr. Pepper-infused barbecue sauce. The tender, juicy beef and rich sauce make these sloppy joes an irresistible comfort food that’s perfect for a casual meal or a fun family dinner.
Ingredients
For the Sloppy Joes:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 1/2 bell pepper, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Dr. Pepper Barbecue Sauce:
– 1 cup Dr. Pepper soda
– 1/2 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/4 tsp garlic powder
– 1/4 tsp onion powder
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
– 4 hamburger buns, for serving
Instructions
1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, until softened.
3. While the vegetables cook, prepare the Dr. Pepper barbecue sauce. In a medium saucepan, combine the Dr. Pepper, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using).
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.
5. Pour the barbecue sauce over the cooked ground beef mixture, stir to combine, and let it simmer for 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
6. Toast the hamburger buns in a skillet or oven until golden brown.
7. Spoon the sloppy joe mixture onto the bottom half of the buns and top with the other half.
8. Serve hot, garnished with pickles or extra toppings of your choice.
Notes
– You can adjust the sweetness of the sauce by increasing or decreasing the brown sugar.
– For an extra kick, add more cayenne pepper or your favorite hot sauce to the barbecue sauce.
– Serve the sloppy joes with a side of fries or a simple salad for a complete meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450kcal
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg