Barbecue Burgers(Sloppy Joes)

Cook: 30 min Cuisine: American

Juicy, smoky barbecue burgers with a rich, tangy flavor profile, perfect for casual gatherings and comfort food lovers seeking a hearty, flavorful meal.

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Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 lb. ground beef or venison
  • 1/2 lb. ground pork
  • 1/2 medium bottle ketchup
  • 1 Tbsp. prepared mustard
  • 1 Tbsp. vinegar
  • 1 onion, grated
  • salt and pepper

Instructions

  1. Brown the ground meat lightly in a skillet.
  2. Add the ketchup, prepared mustard, vinegar, grated onion, salt, and pepper to the browned meat.
  3. Simmer the mixture for 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider using a combination of ground beef and ground pork, as this balances the taste and texture. If you prefer a spicier kick, add some diced jalapeños or hot sauce. For a healthier option, try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. You can also substitute apple cider vinegar for the regular vinegar for a slightly sweeter taste.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these barbecue burgers on toasted hamburger buns and top with shredded lettuce, pickles, or cheese for extra flavor. They pair wonderfully with a side of coleslaw or potato chips for a classic meal. For a delightful twist, try serving them with a side of Cowboy Food for a hearty dinner option.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover barbecue burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the mixture in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between, to prevent drying out.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Barbecue Burgers(Sloppy Joes) contains roughly 459 calories, with 35g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (71% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 890mg per serving (39% of the Daily Value).

459 kcal 23% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 35.4g 71% DV
Total Fat 24g 31% DV
Carbs 21.6g 8% DV
Fiber 0.4g 2% DV
Sugar 15g 30% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 890.2mg 39% DV
Potassium 778mg 17% DV
Cholesterol 109.8mg 37% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 30.5mcg 3% DV
Vitamin C 3.3mg 4% DV
Vitamin D 0.9mcg 4% DV
Calcium 59.3mg 5% DV
Iron 2.1mg 12% DV
Diet fit High-protein

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 use a different type of meat for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute the ground beef and pork with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as leaner meats may cook faster.

How spicy will these burgers be?

The spiciness of these barbecue burgers depends on the type and amount of mustard used. For a mild flavor, stick with yellow mustard. If you prefer heat, opt for Dijon or spicy brown mustard. You can also add hot sauce to the mixture for added kick.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meat mixture a day in advance. Simply follow the recipe up to the simmering step, then let it cool before storing it in the refrigerator. Reheat when ready to serve. This makes it a great option for meal prep or gatherings.

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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