Dr. Pepper BBQ Sloppy Joes

Why Make This Recipe
Dr. Pepper BBQ Sloppy Joes are a fun and flavorful twist on the classic sloppy joe. The unique taste of Dr. Pepper gives the sauce a sweet and tangy kick that zings up the total flavor. It’s perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or casual weeknight meals. Plus, they are simple to make and super satisfying!
How to Make Dr. Pepper BBQ Sloppy Joes
Ingredients:
- 900 g lean ground beef
- 1 teaspoon granulated garlic
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup diced onion
- 480 ml Dr. Pepper Barbecue Sauce
- 6 to 8 soft sandwich buns
Directions:
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and season it with granulated garlic, kosher salt, and black pepper. Cook, stirring frequently, until the beef starts to brown.
- Add the diced onion to the skillet. Continue cooking until the onions are soft, and the beef has some crisp spots.
- Pour the Dr. Pepper Barbecue Sauce into the skillet. Stir well to coat the beef and onion mixture, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Keep the mixture warm until you are ready to serve. Alternatively, you can transfer it to a slow cooker to keep it warm.
- Spoon the warm filling onto the sandwich buns. Serve immediately while hot.
How to Serve Dr. Pepper BBQ Sloppy Joes
These sloppy joes are best served hot right off the stove. You can add toppings like sliced pickles, cheese, or jalapeños for extra flavor. They pair nicely with potato chips, coleslaw, or a simple green salad on the side.
How to Store Dr. Pepper BBQ Sloppy Joes
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure the mix is cooled before placing it in the container. You can also freeze the mixture for up to 2 months; just thaw it in the fridge before reheating.
Tips to Make Dr. Pepper BBQ Sloppy Joes
- Use lean ground beef for a healthier option, or try ground turkey or chicken for a lighter choice.
- For a spicier kick, consider adding some chopped jalapeños or hot sauce to the mix.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer, or add a bit of cornstarch mixed with water to thicken it up.
Variation
You can also switch up the barbecue sauce to use your favorite brand or even a homemade version if you want to get creative!
FAQs
1. Can I use a different kind of meat?
Yes, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat as a substitute.
2. How can I make the sauce spicier?
Add chopped jalapeños, hot sauce, or cayenne pepper to the meat mixture while cooking.
3. Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, you can cook the meat mixture in advance and store it in the fridge. Just warm it up before serving.

Dr. Pepper BBQ Sloppy Joes
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 900 g lean ground beef Use lean ground beef for a healthier option.
- 1 teaspoon granulated garlic
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup diced onion
- 480 ml Dr. Pepper Barbecue Sauce You can use your favorite barbecue sauce.
- 6 to 8 pieces soft sandwich buns Choose your favorite type of buns.
Instructions
Cooking
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground beef and season it with granulated garlic, kosher salt, and black pepper. Cook, stirring frequently, until the beef starts to brown.
- Add the diced onion to the skillet. Continue cooking until the onions are soft, and the beef has some crisp spots.
- Pour the Dr. Pepper Barbecue Sauce into the skillet. Stir well to coat the beef and onion mixture, then reduce the heat to low.
- Let it simmer for 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Keep the mixture warm until you are ready to serve, or transfer it to a slow cooker to keep warm.
- Spoon the warm filling onto the sandwich buns. Serve immediately while hot.