Dr Pepper Sloppy Joes Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s quick, fun, and full of flavor. The Dr Pepper adds a unique depth and sweetness that transforms a simple dinner into something special. It’s also incredibly easy to make in one pan, which means minimal cleanup after a busy day. I can whip it up in under 40 minutes, and it’s always a hit with kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 tablespoons butter
1 small onion, diced
1 small green bell pepper, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 pound lean ground beef
8 ounces tomato sauce
¾ cup Dr Pepper
2 tablespoons ketchup
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
½ teaspoon kosher salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper

Directions

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, I melt the butter and add the diced onion and bell pepper. I cook them for about 10 minutes, until softened and lightly browned.

2. I stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, just until fragrant.

3. I add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook for about 8–10 minutes until browned and no longer pink. Then I drain off any excess fat.

4. I pour in the tomato sauce, Dr Pepper, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. I stir everything together until well combined.

5. I bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to medium-low. I let it simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens to my liking.

6. I taste and adjust seasoning, then spoon the mixture onto toasted hamburger buns and serve hot.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings and takes around 40 minutes total—10 minutes of prep and 30 minutes of cooking. It’s perfect for a fast weeknight dinner or a casual family meal.

Variations

• I sometimes swap the beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.

• For extra flavor, I add a pinch of smoked paprika or chili powder to the sauce.

• I like to toss in a handful of shredded carrots or diced mushrooms for more veggies.

• To make it spicier, I mix in a few dashes of hot sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.

• I’ve also served it open-faced over toasted bread or even baked potatoes for a fun twist.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. When reheating, I warm the mixture in a skillet over medium-low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if it thickens too much. It also freezes well—up to 2 months—so I often double the batch and save some for another night.

FAQs

Can I use diet Dr Pepper?

Yes, I can, but I find that regular Dr Pepper gives a richer, more caramelized flavor.

What kind of buns work best?

I usually use soft hamburger buns or brioche rolls, but toasted sandwich rolls or even pretzel buns work great for extra texture.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. I cook the filling in advance, refrigerate it, and reheat just before serving. The flavors deepen as it sits, making it even tastier the next day.

What can I serve with Sloppy Joes?

I love pairing them with coleslaw, potato wedges, sweet corn, or a simple green salad for a balanced meal.

How do I keep the sandwiches from getting soggy?

I toast the buns before adding the filling and sometimes add a thin layer of cheese to create a little barrier between the bread and sauce.

Conclusion

I love how these Dr Pepper Sloppy Joes bring a playful, flavorful twist to a timeless classic. The sweetness of the soda, combined with the savory beef and tangy sauce, creates a meal that’s as comforting as it is unique. It’s quick, satisfying, and perfect for weeknights when I want something hearty and fun without spending hours in the kitchen.

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