Barbecue Spoonburgers

Prep: 10 min Cook: 240 min Serves: 6 Cuisine: American

Barbecue Spoonburgers feature savory ground beef simmered in a tangy, smoky tomato-based sauce, perfect for casual gatherings or family dinners with robust flavors.

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Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 lb. ground beef
  • 1 Tbsp. Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp. dry mustard
  • 3/4 c. water
  • 2 Tbsp. oil
  • 1/2 c. onion, chopped
  • 1/2 c. catsup
  • 1/2 green bell pepper
  • 1 small can tomato paste
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1/2 tsp. paprika
  • 2 Tbsp. vinegar
  • 1/2 c. chopped celery
  • 2 Tbsp. brown sugar
  • 1 tsp. salt

Instructions

  1. Brown the ground beef in hot oil in a skillet and discard excess fat.
  2. Put the remaining ingredients into a slow cooker.
  3. Add the cooked meat to the slow cooker.
  4. Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours.
  5. Spoon the mixture into warm hamburger buns or serve over rice, mashed potatoes, or noodles.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider adding smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you're short on time, using pre-chopped onions and bell peppers will speed up the prep process. This dish pairs beautifully with American recipes like Po-Man'S Ribs And Rice, making it a versatile choice for gatherings.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the spoonburgers in warm hamburger buns for a classic approach, or try it over rice, mashed potatoes, or noodles for a hearty meal. Pair with a simple green salad or coleslaw for a refreshing crunch. This dish is also perfect for game day or casual gatherings, allowing guests to serve themselves.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Barbecue Spoonburgers contains roughly 1134 calories, with 3g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 117g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (11% of the Daily Value), iron (10% of the Daily Value), and potassium (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 616mg per serving (27% of the Daily Value).

1134 kcal 57% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 3.3g 7% DV
Total Fat 117.5g 100% DV
Carbs 22.1g 8% DV
Fiber 2.1g 8% DV
Sugar 12.6g 25% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 615.8mg 27% DV
Potassium 475.5mg 10% DV
Cholesterol 3.6mg 1% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 40.2mcg 4% DV
Vitamin C 9.7mg 11% DV
Vitamin D 0mcg
Calcium 40.5mg 3% DV
Iron 1.8mg 10% DV

* % 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 ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives. Just be mindful of cooking times, as leaner meats may cook faster. Adjust seasoning to taste, especially if using a spicier meat substitute.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the spoonburger mixture a day in advance. After cooking, let it cool, then store it in the refrigerator. Reheat it in a slow cooker or on the stovetop before serving for optimal flavor and texture.

What can I do with leftovers?

Leftover spoonburger mixture can be repurposed in various ways. Try it as a filling for tacos, on top of baked potatoes, or mixed into pasta for a quick casserole. The flavors meld beautifully, making it a versatile option for easy meals throughout the week.

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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