The Ultimate BBQ Ground Beef Recipe – A Family Favorite | Best BBQ Recipe

The Best BBQ Ground Beef Recipe That Will Make You Famous

If you’re searching for the best BBQ recipe that’s both incredibly delicious and easy to prepare, this ground beef BBQ is exactly what you need. Inspired by beloved family recipes passed down through generations, this BBQ dish features tender ground beef simmered in a homemade sweet and tangy sauce that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Delicious homemade BBQ ground beef in a savory sauce served on a bun

Why This Will Become Your Go-To BBQ Recipe

There’s something magical about a perfectly balanced BBQ sauce coating tender ground beef. This recipe strikes that perfect harmony between sweet, tangy, and savory flavors that make traditional American barbecue so irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a summer cookout, preparing for game day, or just want to treat your family to a delicious weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers big flavor with minimal effort.

This ground beef BBQ simmers in a quick homemade barbecue sauce creating a filling, flavorful dish that’s perfect for sandwiches, loaded potatoes, or served alongside your favorite cookout sides. The secret is in the sauce – a perfect blend of sweetness from brown sugar, tanginess from vinegar, and richness from ketchup that develops incredible depth of flavor in just minutes of cooking.

Prep Time and Cooking Details

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Cuisine: American
Course: Lunch/Dinner

Ingredients for the Ultimate BBQ Recipe

2 pounds ground beef
1 medium onion, finely diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 (14 ounce) bottle ketchup
1/2 cup water
1/4 cup white sugar
1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
2 tablespoons white vinegar
2 tablespoons prepared yellow mustard
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon paprika
12 hamburger buns, for serving (optional)

How to Make the Best BBQ Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon until no longer pink, about 7-8 minutes. Drain excess grease if necessary.
Add the diced onion to the beef and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
In a large saucepan, whisk together ketchup, water, white sugar, brown sugar, vinegar, mustard, salt, pepper, and paprika.
Bring the sauce mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low.
Add the cooked ground beef mixture to the sauce and stir to combine thoroughly.
Allow the BBQ beef to simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened and flavors have melded together.
Taste and adjust seasonings if needed.
Serve hot on hamburger buns for sandwiches or as desired.

Chef’s Tips for BBQ Success

For deeper flavor: Let the mixture simmer an additional 10-15 minutes for even richer taste.
Make ahead: This BBQ beef actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.
Spice it up: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or a few drops of hot sauce if you prefer a spicier BBQ.
Leaner option: Use 90/10 ground beef to reduce fat content while maintaining flavor.

Serving Suggestions for Your BBQ Masterpiece

This versatile BBQ ground beef can be enjoyed in multiple ways:

Classic BBQ sandwiches on hamburger buns
Loaded BBQ baked potatoes
BBQ beef nachos with melted cheese
Stuffed inside bell peppers
Served over rice for a hearty meal
As a topping for homemade pizza

Perfect Side Dishes to Complete Your BBQ Meal

Creamy coleslaw
Classic potato salad
Baked beans
Corn on the cob
Macaroni and cheese
Sweet potato fries

Nutrition Information

Calories:	314 kcal
Carbohydrates:	36 g
Protein:	17 g
Fat:	12 g
Saturated Fat:	4 g
Sodium:	863 mg
Fiber:	1 g
Sugar:	13 g

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This BBQ beef keeps exceptionally well, making it perfect for meal prep:

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Warm gently in a saucepan over medium-low heat or microwave until heated through.

Why This is Truly the Best BBQ Recipe for Any Occasion

What makes this the best BBQ recipe is its perfect balance of flavors and incredible versatility. The homemade sauce creates depth and richness that store-bought sauces simply can’t match, while the simple preparation makes it accessible even to novice cooks. Whether you’re feeding a crowd at your next backyard gathering or looking for a comforting family meal, this BBQ ground beef recipe delivers unforgettable flavor that will have everyone coming back for more.

Recipe adapted from Nonie’s Best BBQ on AllRecipes.