Barbecue Hamburger Mix

Cook: 30 min Cuisine: American

A rich, smoky barbecue hamburger sauce with onions, celery, and tangy vinegar, perfect for family dinners and cookouts that crave bold, savory flavors.

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Ingredients

  • 1 c. chopped onion
  • 4 lb. ground beef
  • 3 c. catsup
  • 1 c. water
  • 2 Tbsp. brown sugar
  • 1 Tbsp. salt
  • 1 tsp. flavor enhancer (m.s.g.)
  • 1/2 c. chopped celery
  • 1/4 c. lemon juice
  • 1 Tbsp. Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 Tbsp. vinegar
  • 1/2 tsp. dry mustard

Instructions

  1. Saute onion and ground beef until beef is browned.
  2. Drain grease.
  3. Add all remaining ingredients; simmer, covered, for 30 minutes.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of barbecue sauce or a tablespoon of smoked paprika to the mix. If you don't have ground beef, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a lighter alternative. To enhance the flavor, try adding a tablespoon of your favorite hot sauce or diced jalapeños for some heat. This mix can also be used as a filling for tacos or burritos.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the barbecue hamburger mix on toasted hamburger buns for a classic meal, or over rice for a hearty bowl. It pairs beautifully with coleslaw or potato salad for a complete picnic-style meal. Add pickles or sliced jalapeños on top for extra crunch and flavor. This dish also works great as a filling for nachos or as a topping for baked potatoes.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover barbecue hamburger mix in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions in a microwave-safe dish, covered to retain moisture, for about 2-3 minutes.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Barbecue Hamburger Mix contains roughly 516 calories, with 7g protein, 110g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 829mg per serving (36% of the Daily Value).

516 kcal 26% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 6.6g 13% DV
Total Fat 5.3g 7% DV
Carbs 110.2g 40% DV
Fiber 1.4g 5% DV
Sugar 75.9g 100% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 828.6mg 36% DV
Potassium 871.7mg 19% DV
Cholesterol 10.7mg 4% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 9.1mcg 1% DV
Vitamin C 3mg 3% DV
Vitamin D 0mcg
Calcium 190.6mg 15% DV
Iron 6.5mg 36% DV
Diet fit Low-fat

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 freeze the barbecue hamburger mix?

Yes, you can freeze the barbecue hamburger mix for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag. When ready to use, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as directed.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

To spice up the barbecue hamburger mix, you can add chopped fresh jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or a few dashes of hot sauce. Experimenting with different spices like chili powder or even adding a bit of sriracha can give it a nice kick, catering to your personal heat preference.

What can I serve with the barbecue hamburger mix?

This barbecue hamburger mix is versatile and can be served with a variety of sides. Ideal pairings include classic coleslaw, cornbread, or crispy potato wedges. For a lighter option, serve it alongside a fresh garden salad or over steamed vegetables for a satisfying meal.

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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