Best Ever Barbecues
Juicy and flavorful, this classic barbecue dish combines ground beef with tangy ketchup, sweet sugar, and spices, perfect for casual gatherings and family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet.
- Add chopped onions, celery, green peppers, sugar, vinegar, catsup, dry mustard, and a pinch of cloves to a roaster.
- Combine all ingredients well.
- If using an electric roaster, cook at 400° to 500° for two hours.
- If baking in an oven, bake at 350° for 2 to 3 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding minced garlic or Worcestershire sauce to the mixture. If you prefer a sweeter barbecue, you can increase the sugar slightly or use honey as a substitute. For a vegetarian version, try using lentils or extra beans instead of ground beef. This dish can also benefit from some smoked paprika for a smoky taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these barbecue delights on toasted buns for a classic sandwich or alongside coleslaw and corn on the cob for a full meal. They pair beautifully with other American recipes like Bean Hash or a side of potato salad. For a heartier option, try serving with baked beans or a fresh green salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze portions for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. Stir occasionally to ensure even warming.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Best Ever Barbecues contains roughly 2960 calories, with 56g protein, 515g carbohydrates, and 110g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (1111% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (384% of the Daily Value), and iron (222% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).
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 ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef. Just keep in mind that the flavor might be milder, so consider adding additional seasonings like smoked paprika or garlic for more depth.
How can I adjust the sweetness of the barbecue sauce?
If you find the sauce too sweet or not sweet enough, you can adjust the sugar by adding more or reducing it. Alternatively, adding a splash of lemon juice or hot sauce can balance the sweetness effectively.
Is it possible to cook this recipe in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! To cook in a slow cooker, brown the beef first, then combine all ingredients in the slow cooker and set it on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
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).