Barbecued Beef For A Crowd

Prep: 15 min Cook: 60 min Serves: 50 Cuisine: American

A hearty, crowd-pleasing barbecue beef dish with sweet and tangy flavors, perfect for large gatherings and served on buns for a casual, satisfying meal.

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Ingredients

  • 5 lb. ground beef
  • 5 green peppers, chopped
  • 5 onions, chopped
  • 2 (16 oz.) bottles catsup
  • 1 c. brown sugar
  • 1 c. mustard
  • 1/2 c. Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 tsp. chili powder
  • salt to taste

Instructions

  1. Brown ground beef, onions, green peppers, and celery until onions are transparent.
  2. Add remaining ingredients (catsup, brown sugar, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, salt, and pepper).
  3. Cook for 1 hour or more at low temperature.
  4. Serve on split hamburger buns.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider using a blend of ground beef and ground pork. If you're short on time, pre-chopped onions and peppers can save you prep time. Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less brown sugar based on your taste. This dish also works well with a touch of smoked paprika for added depth. Try pairing it with the creamy textures found in Creamy Beef Stew.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this barbecued beef on split hamburger buns for a hearty meal. It pairs nicely with coleslaw or potato salad for a classic summer barbecue vibe. You can also add pickles and cheese for extra flavor. For a fun twist, try serving it alongside corndogs for a nostalgic experience, or offer a side of baked beans.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave individual portions, but stirring halfway through helps ensure even heating. Freezing is an option; just be sure to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Barbecued Beef For A Crowd contains roughly 75 calories, with 1g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (28% of the Daily Value).

75 kcal 4% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 1.5g 3% DV
Total Fat 1.9g 2% DV
Carbs 14.1g 5% DV
Fiber 0.7g 3% DV
Sugar 11.6g 23% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 104.6mg 5% DV
Potassium 95.2mg 2% DV
Cholesterol 3.4mg 1% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 36.5mcg 4% DV
Vitamin C 25mg 28% DV
Calcium 20.2mg 2% DV
Iron 0.6mg 3% DV
Diet fit Low-carb Under 400 cal 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 use a different type of meat?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Just be aware that the flavor profile will change slightly, so you may want to adjust the seasonings to enhance the taste. Mixing in some ground pork can also add richness without compromising the overall dish.

How spicy is this recipe?

The spice level in this recipe is quite mild, primarily due to the chili powder. If you prefer a spicier dish, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mix. Alternatively, serving hot sauce on the side allows guests to customize their heat level.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! This dish actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together. Prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it gently before serving. This makes it an excellent choice for gatherings or potlucks, allowing you to enjoy the event without being stuck in the kitchen.

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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