01 -
Add ground beef to a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season with granulated garlic, kosher salt, and black pepper. Cook, stirring often, until you see a deep golden brown crust developing on the beef bits. Take your time here - slower browning means richer flavor!
02 -
Once the beef is nearly cooked, add the diced onions. Keep stirring so the onions melt into the mixture. Cook for 3-4 minutes until they turn glossy and soft, and the beef gets a little crispy in spots. The onions will get sweeter the longer they cook.
03 -
Reduce heat to low and pour in the Dr. Pepper barbecue sauce. Stir everything well so every bit of beef and onion is coated. Simmer for 5 minutes, letting the flavors marry. The sauce will slightly thicken and cling to the meat.
04 -
Once everything is combined, you can keep the mixture warm right on the stove or transfer to a slow cooker on warm setting. This keeps things juicy and ready when you are.
05 -
Spoon generous scoops of the saucy beef onto fresh buns. Serve immediately while hot and enjoy every sweet and smoky bite. For even more flavor, toast the buns before filling.