Dr. Pepper Barbecue Sloppy Joes – Sweet, Tangy, and Irresistibly Saucy

These Dr. Pepper Barbecue Sloppy Joes take a classic comfort food and give it a bold, flavorful twist. With the sweet, slightly spiced notes of Dr. Pepper soda blended into a tangy barbecue sauce, this dish is the ultimate balance of sweet and savory. Piled high on soft buns, these sloppy joes are perfect for weeknight dinners, game days, or anytime you crave a saucy, satisfying sandwich.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Unique Flavor – Dr. Pepper adds depth and a hint of sweetness to the sauce.
Quick and Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy nights.
Family Favorite – A fun, messy, and delicious meal everyone will love.
One-Pan Simplicity – Minimal cleanup with maximum flavor.

Ingredients

• 1 lb lean ground beef (or ground turkey)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 small bell pepper, finely chopped
• ¾ cup Dr. Pepper soda
• ½ cup barbecue sauce (choose your favorite)
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 6 whole wheat sandwich buns

Instructions

1. Cook the Meat and Vegetables
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks. When almost browned, add chopped onion and bell pepper. Cook for about 5–6 minutes until vegetables are soft and meat is fully cooked. Drain excess fat if needed.

2. Make the Sauce
Stir in Dr. Pepper, barbecue sauce, tomato paste, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

3. Simmer to Thicken
Let the sauce simmer for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened and glossy.

4. Assemble the Sloppy Joes
Spoon the hot filling onto toasted sandwich buns. Serve warm and enjoy with your favorite sides!

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 310
Protein: 21g
Fat: 8g
Carbohydrates: 36g
Sugar: 11g
Fiber: 3g

Tips for Success

• Lean Meat Works Best – Keeps the dish lighter without sacrificing flavor.
• Don’t Skip Simmering – Letting the sauce reduce intensifies the flavor and thickens it.
• Make It Your Own – Add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Why This Recipe Works

Using lean meat and a flavorful sauce made with just a few pantry staples, these sloppy joes stay light while still delivering all the rich, sweet-and-savory goodness you expect. The Dr. Pepper caramelizes into the sauce, adding a depth of flavor that takes this comfort food to the next level.

Dr. Pepper Barbecue Sloppy Joes are a fun and flavorful twist on the traditional sandwich, with a saucy filling that’s sure to please a crowd. Quick to make, hearty, and packed with bold taste, they’re the perfect answer to weeknight dinner or casual entertaining.