Deliciously Unique Dr. Pepper Barbecue Sloppy Joes

Get ready to elevate your Sloppy Joe game with this irresistible Dr. Pepper Barbecue Sloppy Joes recipe! Combining the sweet, fizzy flavor of Dr. Pepper with tangy barbecue sauce and savory ground beef, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. It’s a fun twist on a classic comfort food that’s sure to become a family favorite.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe is a winner because it’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor. The Dr. Pepper adds a unique sweetness and depth to the barbecue sauce, while the ground beef provides a hearty base. Plus, it’s customizable—you can adjust the sweetness or spice level to suit your taste.

Another reason to love this recipe? It’s made with simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that you likely already have on hand. Whether you’re cooking for kids or adults, this dish is a guaranteed hit.

What’s In Dr. Pepper Barbecue Sloppy Joes?

The magic of this recipe lies in the combination of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Ground Beef: The hearty base of the dish. Use lean ground beef for less grease.
• Dr. Pepper: Adds sweetness and a unique fizzy flavor to the sauce.
• Barbecue Sauce: Provides tanginess and richness. Use your favorite store-bought or homemade version.
• Onion and Garlic: Aromatics that build the flavor foundation.
• Worcestershire Sauce: Adds a savory, umami kick.
• Hamburger Buns: The perfect vessel for serving these saucy Joes.

How To Make Dr. Pepper Barbecue Sloppy Joes

This recipe is straightforward and comes together in under 30 minutes. Here’s how to make it:

Step 1: Cook the Beef

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces with a spatula.
2. Drain any excess grease from the skillet.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

1. Add the chopped onion to the skillet with the beef and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Simmer the Sauce

1. Pour in the Dr. Pepper, barbecue sauce, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir to combine.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and the flavors meld together.

Step 4: Serve

1. Toast the hamburger buns if desired.
2. Spoon the Sloppy Joe mixture onto the buns and serve immediately.

Sides for Dr. Pepper Barbecue Sloppy Joes

Pair your Sloppy Joes with these delicious sides:

• Coleslaw: Adds a refreshing crunch and balances the richness of the Joes.
• Sweet Potato Fries: A sweet and savory side that complements the barbecue flavor.
• Corn on the Cob: A classic barbecue side that’s always a hit.
• Pickles: Adds a tangy contrast to the sweet and savory Joes.

Recipe FAQ’s

Can I Use a Different Soda?

Yes! If you don’t have Dr. Pepper, you can use cola or root beer for a similar sweetness and depth of flavor.

Can I Make This Vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or lentils for a vegetarian version.

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Other Recipes To Try

If you loved this recipe, check out these other delicious ideas:

• Pulled Pork Sliders with Cola BBQ Sauce: Tender pulled pork simmered in a cola-based barbecue sauce, perfect for parties.
• Spicy Sriracha Sloppy Joes: A fiery twist on the classic, with a kick of sriracha and jalapeños.
• BBQ Chicken Stuffed Sweet Potatoes: A healthier option with smoky barbecue chicken and creamy sweet potatoes.
• Dr. Pepper Glazed Meatballs: Sweet and tangy meatballs made with a Dr. Pepper glaze—perfect for appetizers or main dishes.

Deliciously Unique Dr. Pepper Barbecue Sloppy Joes

These Dr. Pepper Barbecue Sloppy Joes are a sweet, tangy, and savory twist on a classic comfort food. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers, this recipe is sure to impress!

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Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Keyword: Sloppy Joes

Prep Time: 10 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes minutes

Servings: 6

Calories: 350kcal

Equipment

Chopping Board

Chef's Knife

Skillet

Ingredients

• 1 lb 450g lean ground beef
• 1 small onion finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves minced
• 1 cup Dr. Pepper
• 1 cup barbecue sauce
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 6 hamburger buns
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

• Cook the Beef: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess grease.
• Sauté Aromatics: Add the onion and cook until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
• Simmer the Sauce: Pour in the Dr. Pepper, barbecue sauce, and Worcestershire sauce. Simmer for 10-15 minutes until thickened.
• Serve: Spoon the mixture onto hamburger buns and serve immediately.

Notes

• Customize the Sweetness: Adjust the amount of Dr. Pepper or barbecue sauce to suit your taste.
• Make It Spicy: Add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes for a kick.
• Make Ahead: The Sloppy Joe mixture can be made ahead and reheated before serving.
• Freezing: Freeze the mixture in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute ground beef with plant-based meat or lentils.

Nutrition

Calories: 350kcal | Carbohydrates: 38g | Protein: 20g | Fat: 12g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Trans Fat: 0.5g | Cholesterol: 50mg | Sodium: 800mg | Potassium: 400mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 18g

Enjoy your Dr. Pepper Barbecue Sloppy Joes! Let us know how they turned out in the comments below!