Hamburger Barbecue Filling
A flavorful barbecue filling with savory ground beef, tangy ketchup, and sharp mustard, ideal for casual family meals or summer gatherings inside soft hamburger buns.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Get out a heavy frying pan and add all ingredients except the hamburger rolls.
- Cook over medium heat for about 20 minutes, stirring frequently until heated through and well combined.
- Fill the hamburger rolls with the cooked mixture.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, try adding a splash of liquid smoke or a teaspoon of smoked paprika. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the hamburger if you prefer a lighter option. If you like heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture. This filling can also be used in other American recipes for a tasty twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the hamburger barbecue filling with a side of coleslaw or potato chips for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Creamy Scalloped Potatoes With Ham for a hearty feast. For a fun twist, consider serving it in a lettuce wrap for a low-carb option or alongside pickles and sliced tomatoes for extra crunch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, or microwave in short bursts, stirring in between to ensure even heating. Avoid reheating more than once to maintain quality.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hamburger Barbecue Filling contains roughly 140 calories, with 2g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (18% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 686mg per serving (30% 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 filling ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling a day in advance. Simply cook it, let it cool, and store it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to serve, just reheat it in a pan or microwave. This makes it a great option for meal prep or gatherings.
What can I use instead of ketchup?
If you prefer not to use ketchup, you can substitute it with barbecue sauce for a different flavor profile. Alternatively, combine tomato sauce with a bit of sugar and vinegar to mimic the sweet and tangy taste of ketchup.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! The filling freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To use, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.
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).