When it comes to barbecue, the ground beef BBQ recipe is a standout. Its rich, smoky flavor makes it a favorite for many. This dish is perfect for family gatherings, weekend cookouts, or even a simple dinner at home. The blend of ground beef with savory and sweet barbecue elements creates a taste that is both comforting and exciting. If you’re looking to impress at your next meal, this ground beef BBQ recipe is a must-try.
Choosing the Right Ground Beef
To make the best ground beef BBQ recipe, start with high-quality ground beef. Look for beef with a balanced fat content, ideally 80/20, which means 80% lean and 20% fat. This ratio provides enough fat to keep the meat juicy while cooking. Make sure the beef is fresh, with a bright red color and no off smells.
Perfect Seasoning for Ground Beef BBQ
Seasoning is key to a great barbecue. Start with the basics: salt and pepper. Add minced garlic and chopped onion for depth of flavor. Brown sugar and cider vinegar give the BBQ a sweet and tangy kick, while mustard adds a bit of heat. Ketchup helps to bind everything together and adds a classic BBQ taste.
Recommended Cooking Equipment
For this recipe, you’ll need a large skillet and a slow cooker. The skillet is essential for browning the ground beef and softening the onions and garlic. The slow cooker will allow the flavors to meld together over several hours, resulting in tender and flavorful meat. Make sure your slow cooker is large enough to hold all the ingredients comfortably.
How to Use Equipment Effectively
Large Skillet: Start by heating the skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s browned. This step is crucial as it develops a rich, caramelized flavor. Use a wooden spoon to break the meat into small pieces and ensure even cooking. Once the beef is browned, transfer it to a plate and set aside.
Slow Cooker: Add the browned ground beef to the slow cooker. Then, add the rest of the ingredients: chopped onion, minced garlic, cider vinegar, mustard, brown sugar, and ketchup. Stir everything together to ensure the beef is well-coated with the sauce. Set the slow cooker to low and cook for 6-8 hours, or until the flavors are well combined and the meat is tender.
Comprehensive Ground Beef BBQ Recipe
Ground Beef BBQ Recipe
Ground Beef BBQ Recipe: This dish brings comfort and joy to any meal. The smoky, savory flavors meld perfectly with the sweetness of the sauce, creating a mouthwatering experience. It’s a versatile and crowd-pleasing option, ideal for family gatherings or casual dinners. Every bite of this ground beef BBQ recipe is truly delightful.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup firmly packed brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons prepared mustard
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prep the Ingredients: Chop the large onion and mince the garlic. Set aside.
- Brown the Ground Beef: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces with a wooden spoon. Once browned, transfer to a plate and drain excess grease.
- Cook the Onions and Garlic: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion is soft and translucent.
- Combine Ingredients: Transfer the browned ground beef, sautéed onions, and garlic into the slow cooker. Add ketchup, cider vinegar, brown sugar, mustard, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
- Slow Cook: Set the slow cooker to low and cook for 6-8 hours. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Serve: Once cooked, serve the ground beef BBQ on buns, with coleslaw on the side, or as a topping for hot dogs or beef burgers.
Nutrition Information:
Yield:
8Serving Size:
1Amount Per Serving:Calories: 350Total Fat: 25gNet Carbohydrates: 10gFiber: 1gSugar: 8gProtein: 20g
Serving Suggestions and Suitable Side Dishes
Ground beef BBQ is versatile and can be served in various ways:
- On Buns: Serve the BBQ ground beef on toasted buns for a classic sandwich.
- With Coleslaw: A side of coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch and balances the rich BBQ flavor.
- As a Topping: Use the BBQ ground beef as a topping for hot dogs or beef burgers.
- Over Rice: For a hearty meal, serve the BBQ ground beef over a bed of rice.
Cooking Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh onions, garlic, and high-quality ground beef make a big difference in flavor.
- Adjust Seasonings: Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or brown sugar based on your preference.
- Avoid Overcooking: While the slow cooker is forgiving, overcooking can dry out the meat. Aim for 6-8 hours on low for best results.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not Browning the Beef: Browning the ground beef adds depth of flavor. Don’t skip this step.
- Too Much Liquid: Adding too much liquid can make the BBQ sauce watery. Stick to the recipe measurements.
- Incorrect Slow Cooker Settings: Ensure your slow cooker is set to low for even cooking and tender meat.
Conclusion
This ground beef BBQ recipe is a delicious and easy dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can create a meal that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re serving it on buns, with coleslaw, or as a topping for hot dogs, this BBQ will be a hit. Remember to use fresh ingredients, season well, and follow the cooking tips for the best results. Enjoy your flavorful ground beef BBQ!
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I’m Calvin Lamb, an LA-based culinary enthusiast with a decade’s experience in five-star kitchens. My innovative dishes, inspired by seasonal flavors and sustainable practices, blend classic and modern cuisine. Besides crafting unique culinary experiences, I relish exploring new eateries and devising fresh recipes.