Ground Beef Barbecue
A flavorful ground beef barbecue sauce with sweet, tangy, and spiced notes, perfect for casual family dinners or summer cookouts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef and drain excess fat.
- Add chopped green pepper, catsup, vinegar, salt, sugar, prepared mustard, and ground cloves to the beef.
- Simmer the mixture for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Optional: double the recipe for larger servings or leftovers.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 10 days or freeze for longer storage.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of ground beef and ground pork. You can substitute the green pepper with diced onions or mushrooms for a different taste. If you prefer a spicier kick, add some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. This barbecue mix also works well as a filling for sliders or a topping for baked potatoes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the ground beef barbecue on hamburger buns for a delicious sandwich, or over rice for a hearty meal. It pairs beautifully with coleslaw and potato chips. Consider adding a side of corn on the cob or a fresh garden salad for a complete dinner. This dish is perfect for casual gatherings or game day snacks.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover ground beef barbecue in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 10 days. To reheat, warm it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. For longer storage, freeze in portion-sized containers for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ground Beef Barbecue contains roughly 298 calories, with 5g protein, 66g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (78% of the Daily Value), iron (46% of the Daily Value), and calcium (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and potassium. It also contributes 22g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 barbecue ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the ground beef barbecue a day in advance. Simply store it in the refrigerator and reheat it when you're ready to serve. This allows the flavors to meld together even more, enhancing the overall taste.
Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for a leaner option. You could even try using ground lamb for a unique twist. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the meat you choose.
What can I serve with this dish?
This ground beef barbecue pairs well with a variety of sides. Try serving it with baked beans, corn on the cob, or a simple green salad. For a heartier meal, consider offering it with creamy coleslaw or even alongside crispy french fries.
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).