Barbecue Meat Buns
Juicy barbecue meat buns feature savory ground beef in a tangy tomato sauce, perfect for casual gatherings or quick weeknight dinners with bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook onions in salad oil or melted fat in a large skillet over medium heat until soft.
- Add ground beef and salt; cook and stir until beef is lightly browned.
- Add tomato sauce, prepared mustard, hot pepper sauce, vanilla, vinegar, and water.
- Let simmer, uncovered, for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Serve large spoonfuls of the meat mixture on toasted halves of hamburger buns.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider substituting ground turkey or chicken for the beef. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, you can add a tablespoon of brown sugar. To reduce the heat, use less hot pepper sauce or substitute it with a milder sauce. This recipe can be adapted using leftover beef from dishes like Missouri Beef Skillet for a quick meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the barbecue meat buns with a side of coleslaw or potato chips for a crunchy contrast. Pickles or jalapeños can also be added on top for extra flavor. This dish pairs beautifully with Pto'S Baked Beans With Beef, creating a delicious barbecue spread for gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meat mixture 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 heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave it in a covered dish, stirring halfway, for about 2-3 minutes or until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Barbecue Meat Buns contains roughly 647 calories, with 22g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (43% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and iron.
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 meat mixture ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meat mixture a day in advance. Just let it cool completely before storing it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat it in a skillet or microwave. This makes it convenient for busy weeknights or parties.
What kind of buns should I use?
While hamburger buns are traditional, you can experiment with other types like brioche or whole wheat buns for added flavor and nutrition. Toasting the buns before serving enhances their texture and taste, making for a delightful meal.
Can I freeze the meat mixture?
Yes, the meat mixture can be frozen for up to 3 months. Ensure it is cooled and stored in a freezer-safe container. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and warm it in a skillet or microwave before serving.
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).