Christmas Eve Barbecue
A flavorful and hearty barbecue dish featuring ground beef simmered in a tangy chili sauce, perfect for festive gatherings and family dinners with bold, comforting flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut the onion and green pepper into small pieces.
- Combine the chopped onion and pepper with ground beef in a skillet.
- Brown the hamburger over medium heat.
- Drain off the grease from the skillet.
- Return the beef mixture to the skillet and add the jar of Heinz chili sauce and a little ketchup.
- Mix everything together and cook on low heat for about 30 minutes.
- If it gets dry, add more ketchup as needed.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavorful twist, consider adding spices like cumin or paprika to the beef mixture. If you're out of Heinz chili sauce, a homemade blend of tomato sauce and spices can work as a substitute. For a vegetarian option, try using plant-based ground beef. Adding a dash of hot sauce can also enhance the flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Christmas Eve Barbecue on soft hamburger buns for a delicious sandwich. It pairs beautifully with coleslaw or potato salad for a festive meal. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside baked beans or corn on the cob. This dish also makes a great filling for Beef Mushroom Buns.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short increments, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Christmas Eve Barbecue contains roughly 300 calories, with 5g protein, 44g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (111% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 603mg per serving (26% 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 make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the beef mixture a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat when ready to serve. This allows the flavors to meld even more, making it a great option for busy holiday gatherings.
What can I serve with this barbecue?
This dish goes well with a variety of sides. Classic American recipes like mac and cheese or a green salad complement it nicely. You could also serve it with tortilla chips for dipping, adding a fun twist to your meal.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Absolutely! You can freeze the cooked mixture in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. This makes it convenient for quick meals during busy weeks.
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).