Busy Barbecue Filling
A hearty, flavorful barbecue filling with smoky spices, tender meats, and tangy sauce, perfect for crowd-pleasing sandwiches and casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients, except hamburger buns, in a large pot or slow cooker.
- Simmer on top of stove for 3 hours or in slow cooker on high for 8 hours.
- Serve the filling hot inside hamburger buns.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra depth of flavor, consider marinating the meats in the mustard and Worcestershire sauce overnight before cooking. If you don't have stew meat, beef chuck or brisket can work well as substitutes. For a tangy twist, try adding a dash of liquid smoke or smoked paprika to the mixture. To thicken the sauce, you can mix in a tablespoon of cornstarch dissolved in water towards the end of cooking.
Serving Suggestions
This Busy Barbecue Filling is perfect for casual gatherings and pairs beautifully with Creamy Pea Salad(Makes 24 Servings) as a refreshing side. Serve with a variety of toppings like sliced pickles, coleslaw, or jalapeños for added flavor. You can also use the filling for nachos or as a filling for baked potatoes for a hearty meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm the filling on the stove over low heat until heated through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between. If it thickens too much, add a splash of water to reach your desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Busy Barbecue Filling contains roughly 417 calories, with 13g protein, 68g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (26% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 919mg per serving (40% 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 only one type of meat instead of both?
Yes, you can certainly use just one type of meat in this recipe. If you prefer beef, stick with stew meat or beef chuck. For a leaner option, you can use just pork. Adjust the cooking time as needed based on the meat you choose.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce into the mixture. You can also increase the amount of chili powder or add cayenne pepper to taste. Adjust gradually to ensure the spice level suits your preference.
Can I prepare this filling ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Just reheat before serving, and it’ll be ready to enjoy in no time!
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).