If you’re looking for a creative spin on a classic comfort food, these Sweet & Smoky Dr. Pepper BBQ Sloppy Joes are sure to hit the spot! The unique addition of Dr. Pepper soda brings a sweet and tangy depth of flavor that pairs perfectly with the smoky spices and hearty ground beef. I discovered this recipe on I Wuv Cooking, and I’m excited to share this irresistible twist on a nostalgic favorite with you!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe combines the comforting, messy goodness of sloppy joes with the bold flavors of barbecue sauce and Dr. Pepper. It’s quick to prepare, packed with rich, smoky flavor, and perfect for family dinners, casual get-togethers, or game nights. The hint of sweetness from the Dr. Pepper is balanced by the tangy ketchup and the depth of Worcestershire sauce, making every bite a flavor explosion.
Sweet & Smoky Dr. Pepper BBQ Sloppy Joes Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 green bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1 cup Dr. Pepper soda
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 4-6 hamburger buns, toasted
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Directions
- Cook the Beef:
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned and crumbled. Drain any excess grease. - Sauté the Vegetables:
Add the chopped onion and green bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened. - Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the Dr. Pepper, ketchup, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined. - Combine and Simmer:
Pour the sauce mixture over the beef and vegetables in the skillet. Stir thoroughly to coat everything in the sauce. Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens. - Serve:
Spoon the sloppy joe mixture onto the toasted hamburger buns. For an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Serve immediately and enjoy the sweet and smoky goodness!
Tips for Perfect Sloppy Joes
- Make It Spicy: Add a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce for some heat.
- Upgrade the Buns: Serve on brioche buns for an extra buttery, rich flavor.
- Cheese It Up: Swap the cheddar for pepper jack or mozzarella for a different cheesy twist.
- Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave.
Why You’ll Keep Coming Back
These Sweet & Smoky Dr. Pepper BBQ Sloppy Joes are more than just a meal—they’re an experience. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual weekends, this dish is hearty, flavorful, and easy to make. Let me know if this recipe becomes a new family favorite in your household, and don’t forget to check out I Wuv Cooking for more delicious inspiration!
Sweet & Smoky Dr. Pepper BBQ Sloppy Joes: The Comfort Food Upgrade You Didn’t Know You Needed
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup Dr. Pepper soda
- 2 cups ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 4 teaspoons black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 4 hamburger buns
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
- Add Dr. Pepper, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
- Simmer the mixture for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens.
- While the mixture simmers, toast the hamburger buns if desired.
- Once the mixture is ready, spoon it onto the toasted buns and top with shredded cheddar cheese if desired.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
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