Barbecue Beef Yankee

Prep: 10 min Cook: 20 min Cuisine: American

A flavorful, smoky barbecue beef dish with tender ground chuck, aromatic spices, and rich barbecue sauce, perfect for casual gatherings and family dinners alike.

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Ingredients

  • 1 lb. ground chuck
  • 1 small onion, chopped fine
  • 1 small green pepper, chopped fine
  • 1 small clove garlic, minced
  • 1/2 tsp. curry powder
  • 1/4 tsp. chili powder
  • salt and pepper
  • 1 bay leaf
  • barbecue sauce to taste

Instructions

  1. Saute ground chuck; add chopped green pepper, chopped onion, minced garlic, curry powder, chili powder, salt, pepper, and bay leaf.
  2. Cook until the beef is fully browned and vegetables are tender.
  3. Remove the bay leaf, then add barbecue sauce to taste.
  4. Cook for an additional few minutes until flavors are well combined and heated through.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce or a splash of apple cider vinegar to the beef mixture. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option, but remember to adjust cooking times accordingly. If you like heat, add a dash of hot sauce or increase the chili powder. For a smoky flavor, use smoked paprika instead of chili powder.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Barbecue Beef Yankee on toasted hamburger buns for a delicious sandwich option. It pairs well with sides like Cool And Colorful Rainbow Salad or crispy French fries. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside coleslaw or cornbread. Feel free to garnish with fresh herbs or pickles for added flavor.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave in a covered dish, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Barbecue Beef Yankee contains roughly 535 calories, with 24g protein, 82g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (239% of the Daily Value), iron (143% of the Daily Value), and calcium (52% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1088mg per serving (47% of the Daily Value).

535 kcal 27% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 24.5g 49% DV
Total Fat 24.5g 31% DV
Carbs 81.7g 30% DV
Fiber 66.9g 100% DV
Sugar 6.1g 12% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1088.2mg 47% DV
Potassium 1783.2mg 38% DV
Cholesterol 17.6mg 6% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 232.5mcg 26% DV
Vitamin C 22.2mg 25% DV
Vitamin D 0mcg
Calcium 670.1mg 52% DV
Iron 25.8mg 100% DV
Diet fit High-protein High-fiber

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 this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the beef mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat and add the barbecue sauce before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it even tastier. It's perfect for meal prep or gatherings.

What type of barbecue sauce works best?

The best barbecue sauce depends on your taste preferences. A tangy vinegar-based sauce complements the spices well, while a sweet and smoky sauce adds a different dimension. Experiment with different brands or homemade sauces to find your favorite. You can even mix two types for a unique flavor.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the Barbecue Beef Yankee! Allow it to cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave. This makes for a convenient meal option later.

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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