Barbecued Buns

Prep: 15 min Serves: 18 Cuisine: American

Juicy, flavorful barbecued ground beef served on warm, buttered buns—perfect for casual gatherings or family dinners, with a rich, savory taste and a hint of sweetness.

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Ingredients

  • 3 Tbsp. butter
  • 1 1/2 lb. ground beef
  • 1/2 c. minced onion
  • 1/2 c. finely diced green pepper or celery
  • 1 tsp. salt
  • 1/8 tsp. pepper
  • 1 1/2 tsp. poultry seasoning
  • 1 tsp. prepared mustard
  • 1 Tbsp. vinegar
  • 2 Tbsp. brown sugar
  • 1 (14 oz.) bottle catsup
  • water
  • 18 hamburger buns

Instructions

  1. Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat; add ground beef and minced onion.
  2. Cook until the meat is lightly browned.
  3. In a bowl, mix green pepper or celery, salt, pepper, poultry seasoning, prepared mustard, vinegar, brown sugar, and catsup.
  4. Pour the mixture into the skillet with the meat.
  5. Bring to a boil, then cover tightly.
  6. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook for several hours, stirring occasionally.
  7. Add a little water if the mixture becomes too thick during simmering.
  8. Serve the hot meat mixture on warm, buttered hamburger buns.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider using ground chuck instead of regular ground beef. You can substitute the green pepper with diced mushrooms or zucchini for a different taste. If you prefer a spicier kick, add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the meat mixture. To save time, use pre-diced onions and peppers. This dish is similar to Beef recipes but offers a unique barbecue twist.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the barbecued meat on warm, buttered hamburger buns for a satisfying meal. Pair it with coleslaw or potato salad for a classic picnic-style side. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside baked beans or corn on the cob. This dish makes a great centerpiece for casual gatherings or game day celebrations.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover barbecued meat mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in short intervals until heated through. You can also freeze the meat mixture for up to 3 months; just thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Barbecued Buns contains roughly 260 calories, with 1g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (36% of the Daily Value).

260 kcal 13% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 1.2g 2% DV
Total Fat 23.4g 30% DV
Carbs 11.7g 4% DV
Fiber 1.5g 5% DV
Sugar 8g 16% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 425.7mg 19% DV
Potassium 125.4mg 3% DV
Cholesterol 66.8mg 22% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 15.9mcg 2% DV
Vitamin C 32.1mg 36% DV
Calcium 20.4mg 2% DV
Iron 0.5mg 3% DV
Diet fit Low-carb Under 400 cal
Contains Milk

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?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Keep in mind that poultry may require less cooking time, so adjust accordingly. Additionally, for a vegetarian version, consider using lentils or a meat substitute like crumbled tempeh or tofu mixed with barbecue sauce.

How can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the meat mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Simply reheat it before serving. For larger gatherings, you can also keep it warm in a slow cooker on low heat, which allows guests to serve themselves throughout the event.

What are some good toppings for the barbecued buns?

Popular toppings include shredded cheese, pickles, or sliced jalapeños for an extra kick. You can also add toppings like coleslaw or diced tomatoes for freshness. Experiment with different combinations to find your favorite, and get inspired by toppings commonly used in American recipes.

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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