If you’re a fan of Sloppy Joes but looking for a flavorful twist, then Dr. Pepper BBQ Sloppy Joes with a Kick will definitely hit the spot. The combination of savory ground beef, tangy barbecue sauce, and the unique sweetness of Dr. Pepper takes this classic sandwich to the next level. The result? A perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and a little bit of heat, all wrapped up in a deliciously messy bite!
Whether you’re serving these for a casual weeknight dinner or at a backyard barbecue, they’re sure to be a hit. Let’s dive into this easy-to-make recipe that’s packed with flavor.
Why You’ll Love Dr. Pepper BBQ Sloppy Joes with a Kick
- Unique Flavor: The Dr. Pepper adds a hint of sweetness and depth to the barbecue sauce, giving this dish a unique and irresistible flavor.
- Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious meal ready in under 40 minutes.
- Customizable Heat: The optional cayenne pepper lets you control the spice level, so you can make it as mild or as spicy as you like.
- Perfect for a Crowd: This recipe makes enough to feed four, but it’s easy to double if you’re serving a larger group.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef: The base of the sloppy joe filling, providing that hearty, savory flavor.
- 1 can (12 oz) Dr. Pepper: Adds a sweet, slightly spiced twist to the sauce.
- 1 cup barbecue sauce: Use your favorite brand, or make your own for a personalized touch.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Provides a nice savory balance to the sweetness of the Dr. Pepper.
- 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped: Adds texture and a pop of color.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: For a rich, aromatic depth of flavor.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds umami and richness to the dish.
- 1 teaspoon chili powder: For a little heat and smokiness.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Adds a mild, sweet, and smoky flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): For those who like a spicy kick.
- Salt and pepper to taste: To season the dish and balance the flavors.
- 4 hamburger buns: Soft buns that soak up all that delicious sauce.
- Cooking oil: For sautéing the vegetables.
Instructions for Making Dr. Pepper BBQ Sloppy Joes with a Kick
Step 1: Cook the Vegetables
Start by heating a splash of cooking oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and green bell pepper, cooking until they soften, which should take about 5 minutes. Once softened, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until the garlic becomes fragrant.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef to the skillet. Break the beef up with a spatula as it cooks, ensuring that it browns evenly. This step will take about 7-8 minutes. Once the beef is fully cooked and browned, drain any excess fat from the pan if necessary.
Step 3: Add the Sauces and Seasonings
Once the beef is browned, stir in the Dr. Pepper, barbecue sauce, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, paprika, cayenne pepper (if you’re using it for extra heat), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together to combine the ingredients and bring the mixture to a simmer.
Step 4: Simmer the Sauce
Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure the sauce thickens and the flavors meld together nicely. The sauce should be rich and slightly sticky by the end.
Step 5: Toast the Buns (Optional)
If you like your buns a little crispy, this is a great time to toast them. Simply place them under the broiler for 1-2 minutes until they’re lightly golden brown.
Step 6: Assemble the Sloppy Joes
Once your sauce is ready, it’s time to assemble the sandwiches! Spoon a generous amount of the Dr. Pepper BBQ beef mixture onto the bottom half of each toasted bun. Top with the other half of the bun.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your Dr. Pepper BBQ Sloppy Joes with a Kick immediately, while they’re hot and fresh. Enjoy the explosion of flavors with each bite!
Tips for the Perfect Dr. Pepper BBQ Sloppy Joes
- Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet Sloppy Joe, you can reduce the amount of Dr. Pepper or use a more tangy barbecue sauce to balance the flavors.
- Spice It Up: Love heat? Add extra cayenne pepper or even a dash of hot sauce to take the spice level up a notch.
- Keep it Saucy: Sloppy Joes should be, well, sloppy! Don’t be afraid to let the sauce be a bit runny. It’s all part of the charm.
- Cheese It Up: Want to make this even more indulgent? Add a slice of cheddar or provolone cheese to the sandwiches before serving.
- Serve with Sides: Pair these Sloppy Joes with classic sides like coleslaw, potato chips, or sweet potato fries for a complete meal.
FAQs About Dr. Pepper BBQ Sloppy Joes
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can! The filling can be made a day or two in advance and reheated when ready to serve. Store the cooked beef mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and simply reheat on the stove when you’re ready to eat.
Can I freeze the Sloppy Joe filling?
Absolutely! After cooking the meat mixture, let it cool completely. Then, transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and then warm it on the stove over low heat.
What can I substitute for Dr. Pepper?
If you’re not a fan of soda or want to avoid it, you can substitute Dr. Pepper with root beer or cola. For a less sweet option, try using beef broth or even a non-alcoholic beer.
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes! Ground turkey or chicken can be used in place of beef for a lighter version of this recipe. Just keep in mind that turkey and chicken tend to cook a bit faster and may require less simmering time.
How can I make this gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free hamburger buns and ensure that the barbecue sauce and Worcestershire sauce you’re using are certified gluten-free.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: Approximately 350 kcal per serving
With its bold flavors and customizable heat, Dr. Pepper BBQ Sloppy Joes with a Kick is a crowd-pleasing recipe that adds a fun twist to a weeknight dinner!