Pennsylvania Beef Barbecue
A hearty Pennsylvania beef barbecue featuring ground beef in a sweet, tangy tomato-based sauce, perfect for casual gatherings and served on toasted buns for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix ground beef, brown sugar, chopped onions, dry mustard, salt, catsup, Worcestershire sauce, and water in a casserole dish.
- Bake at 350°F for 1 hour.
- Serve the beef barbecue on toasted buns.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of apple cider vinegar or a few dashes of hot sauce to the beef mixture. If you're short on time, use pre-chopped onions or even onion powder as a substitute. Ground turkey or chicken can work as lighter alternatives to the beef, but may alter the texture. This dish is reminiscent of many American recipes, making it a versatile choice.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the beef barbecue on toasted buns for a classic presentation. It pairs wonderfully with coleslaw or potato salad for a complete meal. For a more casual gathering, consider serving it with chips or as a topping for nachos. This dish could be a hit alongside Tony G'S Chili for a hearty feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the beef barbecue in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Alternatively, microwave in a covered dish, stirring halfway through, for about 2-3 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pennsylvania Beef Barbecue contains roughly 233 calories, with 0g protein, 60g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 592mg 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, this beef barbecue can be prepared a day in advance. Simply mix all ingredients and store in the casserole dish covered in the fridge. Bake it the next day for a quick dinner option. This makes it ideal for busy weeknights or gatherings.
What can I use instead of catsup?
If you don't have catsup, you can substitute with barbecue sauce for a smoky flavor or a mixture of tomato paste and a bit of sugar for sweetness. Just be mindful of the consistency, as catsup is thicker than most sauces.
Is this dish spicy?
This Pennsylvania Beef Barbecue is not inherently spicy, but you can easily add heat by incorporating cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the mix. Adjust the amount to suit your taste preferences, especially if serving to a crowd.
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).