Dr. Pepper Barbecue Sloppy Joes
Ingredients:
1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
1 small onion, finely diced
1/2 cup bell pepper, finely diced (optional)
1 cup Dr. Pepper soda
1/2 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand)
2 tablespoons ketchup
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
4–6 hamburger buns
Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, sliced pickles, or coleslaw
Instructions:
Cook the beef:
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked.
Drain any excess grease and set the beef aside.
Sauté the vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the diced onion and bell pepper (if using). Cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.
Combine the ingredients:
Return the cooked beef to the skillet. Stir in the Dr. Pepper, barbecue sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, tomato paste, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Mix well and bring the mixture to a simmer.
Simmer to thicken:
Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and coats the meat.
Assemble the sandwiches:
Toast the hamburger buns if desired. Spoon the sloppy Joe mixture onto the buns and top with your choice of cheese, pickles, or coleslaw.
Serve:
Serve immediately with a side of fries, chips, or a fresh salad.