Hamburger Barbecue
Juicy, flavorful hamburger barbecue combines seasoned ground beef with savory toppings and a tangy sauce, simmered to perfection. Perfect for casual gatherings or weeknight dinners, this dish offers a smoky, sweet, and tangy profile that appeals to all ages and pairs well with fresh buns and sides.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large skillet, cook together ground beef, chopped green pepper, and chopped onion, stirring with a fork to break up the meat, until the meat is browned and the vegetables are tender.
- Drain off excess drippings.
- In a small bowl, mix together vinegar, mustard, ketchup, sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and red pepper to taste.
- Add the sauce mixture to the beef and vegetable mixture in the pan.
- Mix well; cook over low heat for 50 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Spoon the mixture onto hamburger buns.
- Serve immediately.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the beef mixture. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you prefer a smoky flavor, try adding a dash of liquid smoke to the sauce. Using whole wheat buns or lettuce wraps can make the dish healthier while still being delicious.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the hamburger barbecue with a side of coleslaw for a classic pairing. It also goes well with potato chips or baked beans for a hearty meal. For a fun twist, try adding toppings like cheese, pickles, or barbecue sauce, and browse more American recipes for additional side ideas.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover hamburger barbecue in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between, to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hamburger Barbecue contains roughly 240 calories, with 7g protein, 32g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (51% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron.
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 hamburger barbecue in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the beef and vegetable mixture ahead of time. Cook it as directed, let it cool, and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat it when you're ready to serve. This makes it a great option for meal prep or entertaining.
What can I use instead of ketchup?
If you're looking for a substitute for ketchup, try using tomato sauce mixed with a bit of sugar and vinegar for sweetness and tang. Alternatively, you could use barbecue sauce for a different flavor profile that still pairs well with the other ingredients.
Can I freeze the hamburger barbecue?
Absolutely! You can freeze the cooked hamburger barbecue in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and warm it on the stovetop or microwave until heated through. This is an excellent way to have a quick meal ready for busy days.
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).