Bar-B-Que For A Crowd
A hearty and flavorful barbecue dish perfect for large gatherings, combining tender ground beef or roast with a rich, tangy sauce. The blend of brown sugar, Worcestershire, and spices creates a savory-sweet profile that pairs wonderfully with buns, making it ideal for casual parties and outdoor cookouts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook beef or roast beef and drain off excess fat.
- Add chopped onions, celery, tomato sauce, barbecue sauce, Worcestershire, vinegar, brown sugar, chili pepper, garlic powder, mustard, salt, and pepper to the meat.
- Cook the mixture for about 3 hours.
- If using roast beef, chop it after cooking.
- Use ground chuck and cook in a crock-pot on high.
- Serve the barbecue mixture on buns.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of liquid smoke or using smoked paprika. If you prefer a slightly spicy kick, substitute jalapeños for some of the chili pepper. Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative to beef. Make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly if using different meats.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the barbecue mixture on toasted buns for a hearty sandwich. It pairs perfectly with coleslaw or potato salad for a complete meal. Consider serving with sides like baked beans or corn on the cob to round out your barbecue spread, making it a great option for gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm gently in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. This dish also freezes well for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bar-B-Que For A Crowd contains roughly 434 calories, with 20g protein, 95g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (696% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (53% of the Daily Value), and iron (46% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1252mg per serving (54% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can cook the barbecue mixture a day in advance. Allow it to cool completely before storing it in the refrigerator. Reheat it gently before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it even tastier.
What type of barbecue sauce works best?
Opt for a sauce that matches your flavor preference; a sweet and tangy sauce complements the brown sugar and chili well. For a spicier version, try a chipotle or smoky barbecue sauce to enhance the dish's depth.
Can I make this dish in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Brown the meat and onions first, then combine all ingredients in a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours for a delicious, hands-off approach that allows the flavors to develop.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).