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Homemade Dr. Pepper Beef Sloppy Joes – A Sweet and Savory Comfort Food Classic


  • Author: WAFA LI

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) lean ground beef
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup Dr. Pepper (regular or diet for lower sugar)
• 1/3 cup ketchup
• 1 tbsp brown sugar (or coconut sugar)
• 1 tbsp yellow mustard
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• Salt & pepper to taste
• 4–6 hamburger buns (whole wheat, brioche, or lettuce wraps)
• Optional toppings: pickles, shredded cheese, coleslaw


Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and sauté 4–5 minutes until soft.
  2. Add garlic and ground beef. Cook 6–8 minutes, breaking it apart, until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
  3. Stir in Dr. Pepper, ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, vinegar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
  4. Simmer 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until sauce thickens and flavors meld.
  5. Taste and adjust seasoning—add a splash more vinegar for tang or Dr. Pepper for sweetness.
  6. Spoon hot mixture onto buns and top with your favorites: pickles, cheese, or crunchy slaw!

💡 Great for weeknights, game day, or meal prep—tastes even better the next day!

PREP TIME & NUTRITION :
Prep Time : 10 mins , Cook Time : 20 mins , Total Time : 30 mins , Servings : 4–6 , Calories : 290 (with bun) , Net Carbs: 28g , Fats: 12g , Protein: 22g