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–+ servings
Barbecue Beef
This vintage barbecue recipe blends the hearty flavors of ground beef with a tangy, sweet, and slightly smoky sauce that simmers into a comforting meal. Unlike modern barbecue that often relies on slow-smoked meats, this dish is cooked entirely on the stovetop, making it an accessible family dinner. The combination of ketchup, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and paprika creates a classic American barbecue flavor reminiscent of mid-century home cooking. This recipe is both nostalgic and practical, perfect for potlucks, weeknight dinners, or backyard gatherings where bold yet familiar flavors shine.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 16 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine southerm
Servings 8
Calories 360 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 lbs ground beef
  • 8 tsp sugar (½ cup)
  • 2 tsp dry mustard
  • 2 tsp celery salt
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 8 tsp Worcestershire sauce (½ cup)
  • 1 cup ketchup
  • 1 cup onion salt
  • 1½ cups cold water
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 8 tbsp vinegar (½ cup)

Instructions
 

Step 1: Brown the Beef

  • In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.

Step 2: Add Seasonings

  • Stir in sugar, dry mustard, celery salt, paprika, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, and onion salt. Mix well to evenly coat the meat.

Step 3: Add Liquids

  • Pour in cold water, vinegar, and add butter. Stir until combined.

Step 4: Simmer

  • Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 1 hour, stirring occasionally, until sauce thickens and flavors meld.

Step 5: Serve

  • Serve hot over buns, rice, or as a topping for baked potatoes.

Tips

  • Serve on toasted hamburger buns or soft sandwich rolls.
  • Add finely chopped onions or green peppers for texture and freshness.
  • Substitute part of the ketchup with tomato sauce for a less-sweet version.
  • For heat, add a few dashes of hot sauce or crushed red pepper.
  • Use apple cider vinegar for a fruitier tang.
  • Make ahead — flavors deepen after a day in the refrigerator.
  • Freeze leftovers for up to 2 to 3 months.
  • Try with ground turkey as a lighter alternative.
  • Serve over rice or mashed potatoes instead of buns.
  • Top with sliced pickles or coleslaw for crunch.

Nutrition

Calories: 360kcalCarbohydrates: 18gProtein: 24gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 10.5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gTrans Fat: 0.5gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 2100mgPotassium: 450mgFiber: 1gSugar: 14gVitamin A: 450IUVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 3.5mg
Keyword barbecue beef, BBQ sandwich filling, comfort food, family dinner, ground beef, heirloom recipe, simmered beef, vintage recipe