Barbecue Beef Burger

Prep: 10 min Cook: 60 min Serves: 7 Cuisine: American

Savor the smoky, tangy goodness of Barbecue Beef Burgers, perfect for backyard cookouts or casual family dinners. The rich flavors of beef meld with a zesty ketchup-based sauce, complemented by onions and spices. Ideal for meat lovers looking for a hearty and satisfying meal.

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Ingredients

  • 1 lb. beef
  • 1/2 c. ketchup
  • 1 Tbsp. sugar
  • 3/4 Tbsp. mustard
  • 1/2 Tbsp. vinegar
  • 3/4 tsp. Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 Tbsp. butter
  • 1/4 c. chopped onions
  • 1/2 tsp. salt
  • dash of pepper
  • small amount of water

Instructions

  1. Cook the beef slowly in a thick saucepan for 45 minutes to 1 hour.
  2. Serve on buns to make sandwiches.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider adding minced garlic or smoked paprika to the beef during cooking. If you want a spicier kick, add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the barbecue mixture. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option, but adjust cooking times accordingly. This recipe is also great for meal prep, as the beef can be cooked in bulk and stored for later use.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the barbecue beef on toasted buns, topped with pickles, coleslaw, or your favorite cheese for extra flavor. Consider pairing it with crispy sweet potato fries or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. This dish pairs beautifully with Veggie Beef Soup for a hearty dinner option.

Storage & Reheating

Leftover barbecue beef can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating without drying it out.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Barbecue Beef Burger contains roughly 94 calories, with 1g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (11% of the Daily Value).

94 kcal 5% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 1.2g 2% DV
Total Fat 1.7g 2% DV
Carbs 16.2g 6% DV
Fiber 1g 4% DV
Sugar 10.1g 20% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 334.1mg 15% DV
Potassium 142.9mg 3% DV
Cholesterol 2.5mg 1% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 46.5mcg 5% DV
Vitamin C 10.3mg 11% DV
Calcium 33.5mg 3% DV
Iron 0.7mg 4% DV
Diet fit Low-carb Under 400 cal Low-fat
Contains Milk

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 make the barbecue sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the barbecue sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just reheat it over low heat before mixing it with the cooked beef.

What type of buns work best for these burgers?

For a classic taste, use sesame seed or brioche buns, which provide a nice contrast to the savory beef. Alternatively, whole wheat or gluten-free buns are great options for those with dietary restrictions.

Can I freeze the cooked beef?

Absolutely! Cooked barbecue beef can be frozen for up to 3 months. Make sure to let it cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

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).

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