Dr. Pepper Barbecue Sloppy Joes

Introduction

These Dr. Pepper Barbecue Sloppy Joes bring a sweet and tangy twist to the classic sloppy joe. Using Dr. Pepper barbecue sauce, this recipe delivers a flavorful, juicy beef mixture served on warm buns. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or casual get-together.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds lean ground beef
• 1 teaspoon granulated garlic
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup diced onion
• 2 cups Dr. Pepper Barbecue Sauce
• 6-8 buns

Directions

1. Brown the Beef:
   • Add the ground beef to a large skillet and place over medium-high heat.
   • Season the beef with granulated garlic, kosher salt, and black pepper.
   • Cook, stirring occasionally, until the beef begins to brown.
2. Cook Onions:
   • Add the diced onions to the skillet.
   • Continue cooking until the onions are softened and the ground beef starts to get crispy.
3. Add Sauce:
   • Pour in the Dr. Pepper Barbecue Sauce.
   • Stir to combine well with the beef and onions.
4. Simmer:
   • Lower the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes.
   • Keep the mixture warm until ready to serve. Alternatively, you can transfer it to a slow cooker set on the warm setting.
5. Serve:
   • Spoon the beef mixture over the buns and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Sauce Variations: You can substitute Dr. Pepper Barbecue Sauce with any other barbecue sauce or make your own with a combination of ketchup, vinegar, and brown sugar.
• Beef Alternatives: Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of the sloppy joes.
• Add-Ins: Mix in some bell peppers, mushrooms, or jalapeños for extra flavor and texture.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the beef mixture in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or in the microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of meat?
   • Yes, ground turkey, chicken, or even pork can be used as a substitute for ground beef.
2. Can I freeze the sloppy joe mixture?
   • Yes, the mixture freezes well. Let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
3. How do I make the sauce spicier?
   • Add a teaspoon of hot sauce or some red pepper flakes to the beef mixture for extra heat.
4. What if I don’t have Dr. Pepper Barbecue Sauce?
   • You can use any other barbecue sauce or make a homemade version with basic barbecue ingredients.
5. Can I prepare this ahead of time?
   • Yes, you can prepare the beef mixture in advance and reheat it when ready to serve.
6. Can I make this in a slow cooker?
   • Yes, brown the beef and onions, then transfer to a slow cooker, add the barbecue sauce, and cook on low for 4-6 hours.
7. What sides go well with sloppy joes?
   • Classic sides include coleslaw, potato chips, or a simple green salad.
8. How do I keep the buns from getting soggy?
   • Toast the buns lightly before serving to help prevent sogginess.
9. Can I use slider buns instead of regular buns?
   • Yes, slider buns work great for smaller, bite-sized servings.
10. How can I adjust the sweetness of the sloppy joes?
    • Adjust the sweetness by using less barbecue sauce or adding a bit of vinegar to balance the flavors.

Conclusion

Dr. Pepper Barbecue Sloppy Joes offer a delightful twist on a classic favorite, combining the rich flavors of beef with the unique sweetness of Dr. Pepper barbecue sauce. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, providing a flavorful, satisfying meal that everyone will love. Enjoy these sloppy joes with your favorite sides for a complete and delicious meal.

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