Dr. Pepper Barbecue Joes (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ For the Sloppy Joes

01 - 1 lb ground beef or ground turkey
02 - 1 small onion, finely chopped
03 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
04 - 1 bell pepper, chopped (optional)
05 - 1 cup Dr. Pepper soda
06 - 1 cup barbecue sauce
07 - 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
08 - 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
09 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
10 - ½ teaspoon ground cumin
11 - ½ teaspoon chili powder
12 - Salt and pepper, to taste
13 - 4 burger buns or sandwich rolls

→ For Serving (optional)

14 - Pickles or coleslaw for topping
15 - Fresh parsley for garnish

# Instructions:

01 - In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Once fully cooked, drain any excess grease if necessary.
02 - Add the chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper (if using) to the skillet with the cooked meat. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
03 - Pour in the Dr. Pepper soda, barbecue sauce, Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, and salt and pepper. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
04 - Let the sauce simmer on low heat for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and the flavors meld. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
05 - While the sloppy joe mixture is simmering, toast the burger buns in a separate skillet with a bit of butter until golden brown and crispy.
06 - Spoon the sloppy joe mixture onto the bottom half of each bun. Top with pickles or coleslaw if desired, then place the top half of the bun on top.
07 - Serve hot with a side of chips, fries, or a salad. Garnish with fresh parsley for color.