Individual Barbecued Beef Loaves
Juicy individual beef loaves with a tangy barbecue glaze, blending savory flavors perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, easy to prepare and satisfying.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine ketchup, cider vinegar, brown sugar, and beef-flavored bouillon granules in a saucepan; cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until bouillon dissolves.
- Set barbecue sauce aside.
- In a large bowl, mix lean ground beef, dry breadcrumbs, chopped onion, salt, and pepper until thoroughly blended.
- Shape the mixture into 6 loaves and place them in a lightly greased 11 x 7 x 1-1/2 inch baking dish.
- Spoon the prepared barbecue sauce over the loaves.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes.
- Serve immediately.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding garlic powder or Worcestershire sauce to the beef mixture. If you don't have breadcrumbs, crushed crackers or oats can work as substitutes. To ensure even cooking, make sure the loaves are uniform in size. This dish is reminiscent of classic American recipes, making it a great comfort food choice.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these beef loaves with a side of mashed potatoes or coleslaw for a complete meal. They pair beautifully with Barbara'S Chili for a heartier feast. You can also add a fresh green salad to balance the rich flavors of the barbecue sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the loaves in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20 minutes. This helps retain moisture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Individual Barbecued Beef Loaves contains roughly 258 calories, with 6g protein, 49g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (19% of the Daily Value), iron (14% of the Daily Value), and protein (13% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1510mg per serving (66% 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 freeze the cooked beef loaves?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked beef loaves. Allow them to cool completely, then wrap each loaf tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in the oven as directed.
What can I use instead of ground beef?
If you're looking for a healthier option, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. Just be mindful that these meats may require slightly less cooking time. For a vegetarian option, consider using lentils or a meat substitute designed for beef recipes.
How can I make the sauce spicier?
To add some heat to the barbecue sauce, consider incorporating a dash of hot sauce, cayenne pepper, or smoked paprika while cooking. Adjust according to your taste preference, and remember that you can always add more, but you can't take it out!
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).