If you're craving something smoky, tangy, and downright comforting, these Smoky Barbecue Sloppy Joes are exactly what you need. With just the right blend of spices and sweetness, they transform a simple dinner into a finger-licking experience.
Let's break down the main ingredients. The star of the show is ground beef, which provides a hearty base. We mix in barbecue sauce for a smoky-sweet flavor and ketchup to add a familiar tang. Brown sugar enhances the sweetness, while Worcestershire sauce brings in depth and umami. A touch of Dijon mustard adds a bit of sharpness to balance the flavors. Smoked paprika gives it that irresistible smoky kick, and onion powder with garlic powder rounds out the savory notes. Finally, a dash of black pepper adds just the right amount of heat.
These Sloppy Joes are perfect with a side of crispy sweet potato fries or a fresh coleslaw. If you're in the mood for something lighter, serve with a simple mixed green salad to balance the richness of the dish.
Start by grabbing your largest skillet. Set it over medium heat and drop in the ground beef. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart as it cooks, ensuring it browns evenly. Once it's no longer pink and has a nice brown color, go ahead and drain any excess fat to keep things from getting greasy.
With the beef ready, it's time to add flavor. Pour in the barbecue sauce and ketchup, followed by the brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard. Sprinkle in the smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir everything together until the beef is well-coated in this saucy mixture.
Lower the heat to a simmer and let it all cook for about 10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to ensure the flavors meld beautifully. While that's happening, you can toast your hamburger buns in a separate pan or pop them in the toaster if you prefer. Just get them slightly crispy on the outside.
Now, for the fun part: assembly! Spoon the beef mixture generously onto the bottom halves of your toasted buns. Top each one with a handful of shredded cheddar cheese, some sliced pickles, and a sprinkling of chopped red onions for that extra crunch and flavor pop. Cap it all off with the top half of the buns and serve them up immediately.
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