Looking for a fun twist on the classic Sloppy Joe? These Dr. Pepper Barbecue Sloppy Joes take the traditional recipe to the next level with a sweet and savory sauce made from Dr. Pepper soda and your favorite barbecue sauce. The combination of ground beef, sautéed vegetables, and a flavorful sauce creates a messy, delicious sandwich that’s perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.

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Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 small green bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup Dr. Pepper soda
• 1/2 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite kind)
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 6 hamburger buns

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Preparation:

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

1. Brown the Beef:
   In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until fully browned, breaking it up with a spoon or spatula as it cooks, about 6-8 minutes. If there’s excess fat, drain it off once the beef is cooked through.

Step 2: Add Vegetables

1. Sauté the Onion and Bell Pepper:
   Add the diced onion and green bell pepper to the skillet with the beef. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and become fragrant.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

1. Mix the Sauce Ingredients:
   To the skillet, stir in 1 cup Dr. Pepper, 1/2 cup barbecue sauce, 1/4 cup ketchup, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, 1 tablespoon brown sugar, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Stir well to combine.
2. Simmer the Sauce:
   Bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let the sloppy joe mixture simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce should thicken and coat the beef.

Step 4: Assemble the Sloppy Joes

1. Prepare the Buns:
   While the sloppy joe mixture is simmering, lightly toast the hamburger buns for a bit of extra texture, if desired.
2. Spoon the Filling:
   Once the sauce has thickened, spoon a generous portion of the sloppy joe mixture onto each hamburger bun. Serve the sloppy joes warm.

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Cooking Notes:

• Ground Beef: You can use lean ground beef (85/15 or 90/10) for a less greasy version, or substitute ground turkey for a lighter option.
• Dr. Pepper: The soda adds a unique sweetness and depth to the sauce. If you want a stronger flavor, simmer the sauce for an additional 5 minutes.
• BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite barbecue sauce for this recipe—whether you prefer smoky, sweet, or spicy, the flavor will shine through!

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Serving Suggestions:

• Serve these Dr. Pepper Barbecue Sloppy Joes with classic sides like coleslaw, potato chips, or a fresh green salad.
• Add some extra toppings like pickles, cheddar cheese, or crispy fried onions for a crunchy twist.

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Tips:

• Make Ahead: The sloppy joe mixture can be made ahead of time and reheated. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freeze Leftovers: You can freeze the sloppy joe filling in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop when ready to serve.

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Prep Time:

10 minutes

Cooking Time:

20 minutes

Total Time:

30 minutes

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Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 450 kcal
• Protein: 21g
• Sodium: 900mg

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Conclusion:

These Dr. Pepper Barbecue Sloppy Joes are the perfect blend of sweet and savory, bringing a unique twist to a beloved classic. The combination of Dr. Pepper and barbecue sauce creates a rich, tangy, and slightly smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the hearty ground beef and vegetables. Whether you’re serving them for a quick weeknight meal or a casual weekend cookout, this recipe is sure to be a hit with the whole family. Enjoy!

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