Easy Homemade Ground Beef Barbecue Recipe: 4 Ways To Serve

Nonie’s Best BBQ: A Classic Family Barbecue Recipe Revived

Barbecue is an American tradition, woven into the fabric of family gatherings, weeknight suppers, and festive celebrations. Few recipes capture the comfort and nostalgia of home cooking like Nonie’s Best BBQ—a hearty, flavor-packed dish featuring savory ground beef simmered in a perfectly balanced homemade barbecue sauce. Quick, economical, and utterly delicious, Nonie’s Best BBQ is a meal that generations have returned to for comfort and connection. In this article, we’ll explore the origins, the essential ingredients, step-by-step instructions, helpful tips, serving suggestions, and frequently asked questions about this beloved recipe.

What Makes Nonie’s Best BBQ Special?

Every household boasts its iconic version of barbecue, but what sets Nonie’s Best BBQ apart is its simplicity and robust flavor. The secret is the homemade sauce, which strikes a harmonious blend between tangy, sweet, and smoky. This dish is designed for sharing—served as a main course, sandwich filling, or potluck favorite—making it a true staple for family meals and community gatherings.

• Family Heritage: Passed down through generations, connecting past and present.
• Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples found in most kitchens.
• Quick & Easy: Can be prepared in less than an hour, ideal for busy families.
• Versatile: Serve on buns, over rice, or alongside classic barbecue sides.

Ingredients

The beauty of Nonie’s Best BBQ lies in its accessibility—no exotic components, just wholesome ingredients that come together for rich, layered flavor. Below is the traditional ingredient list:

• 2 pounds ground beef
• 1 (14-ounce) bottle ketchup
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/4 cup white sugar
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
• 1 tablespoon prepared yellow mustard
• 2 teaspoons finely chopped onion
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

This ingredient mix ensures a barbecue sauce that is both tangy and sweet, with savory undertones from the beef and onion.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Nonie’s Best BBQ is designed for convenience without sacrificing flavor. Follow these simple steps to recreate this family favorite in your kitchen:

1. Cook the Ground Beef:
   • In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until evenly browned, breaking it up into crumbles as it cooks.
   • Drain off excess fat, if necessary, to keep the dish from becoming greasy.
2. Make the BBQ Sauce:
   • In a separate bowl, whisk together the ketchup, water, white sugar, brown sugar, red wine vinegar, and prepared yellow mustard.
   • Add the chopped onion, salt, and ground black pepper, mixing until well combined.
3. Simmer Together:
   • Pour the barbecue sauce mixture over the browned ground beef in the skillet.
   • Reduce the heat to low and let the meat and sauce simmer together for 20–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors meld and the mixture thickens.
4. Serve:
   • Spoon the hot BBQ beef mixture onto lightly toasted hamburger buns, or serve over cooked rice or mashed potatoes for a comforting meal.

Tip: Adjusting the Sauce to Your Taste

One of the joys of making barbecue at home is customization. Here are some ideas to personalize Nonie’s Best BBQ sauce:

• Add a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
• Mix in chopped bell peppers or celery for extra texture and sweetness.
• Use apple cider vinegar instead of red wine vinegar for a fruitier tang.
• Swap brown sugar for honey or molasses for a deeper molasses flavor.

Nutritional Information

While the specific caloric value may vary based on portions and optional additions, the recipe is designed to serve around 12 people. The use of lean ground beef can help reduce the overall fat content, while the homemade sauce provides more control over sugar and sodium levels compared to commercial barbecue sauces.

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and depend on exact ingredient choices and serving size.

Serving Suggestions

Nonie’s Best BBQ is endlessly versatile. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or planning a quick family dinner, here are some classic ways to enjoy this dish:

• On Hamburger Buns: The most traditional method—serve as sandwiches, topped with pickles, onions, or coleslaw.
• Over Rice or Mashed Potatoes: For a comforting, fork-and-knife meal.
• As a Filling: Use in baked potatoes, wraps, or even as a creative topping for nachos.
• Potluck Star: Keeps well in a slow cooker or chafing dish for community meals or picnics.

Side Dishes to Complement Nonie’s Best BBQ

No barbecue meal is complete without delicious sides. Here are some top picks to round out your spread:

• Creamy Coleslaw: Crunchy, tangy, and the perfect foil for rich barbecue flavors.
• Baked Beans: Sweet and smoky beans are a barbecue classic.
• Corn on the Cob: Grill or boil for a touch of summer.
• Potato Salad: Creamy or vinegar-based, it’s always a crowd-pleaser.
• Pickle Chips & Fresh Veggies: For crunch and palate cleansing.

Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

One of the strengths of Nonie’s Best BBQ is how well it lends itself to meal prep and leftovers.

• Make Ahead: Prepare the barbecue beef up to two days in advance, refrigerate, and reheat gently.
• Freezing: Store cooled BBQ beef in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.

Nonie’s Best BBQ vs. Other BBQ Classics

History and Origin of Nonie’s Best BBQ

Rooted in American home kitchens, Nonie’s Best BBQ is the kind of recipe that evokes memories of family reunions and neighborhood block parties. While the exact origins are often lost in the swirl of tradition, this recipe reflects the spirit of resourcefulness—using accessible beef and pantry staples to create something more than the sum of its parts. It’s a shining example of comfort food, designed to be shared and savored.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make Nonie’s Best BBQ in a slow cooker?

A: Absolutely! Cook and drain the ground beef as directed, then transfer everything to a slow cooker with the sauce ingredients. Simmer on low for 2–3 hours for an extra-deep flavor.

Q: Can I substitute turkey or chicken for ground beef?

A: Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used for a lighter version, though you may want to enhance the seasoning for more robust flavor.

Q: How do I make the sauce thicker or thinner?

A: To thicken, let the mixture simmer uncovered until reduced. To thin, add small amounts of water or a splash of broth.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for freezing?

A: Yes, Nonie’s Best BBQ freezes very well. Cool completely before storing and enjoy within three months for best quality.

Q: What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

A: Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if necessary to restore moisture.

Tips for Perfect Barbecue Every Time

• Browning the Beef Properly: Offers a rich, savory depth to the finished dish.
• Use Fresh Onion: Even a small amount of fresh onion will provide more flavor than onion powder.
• Don’t Rush the Simmer: Allowing time for the sauce to blend with the meat is key to deep flavor.
• Taste and Adjust: Classic family recipes are all about adjusting to your preferences—taste as you go!

Reader Reviews & Community Variations

Nonie’s Best BBQ has become popular in many kitchens, with home cooks often adding their own twists:

• Some stir in a handful of shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheese before serving.
• Others add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or liquid smoke for extra complexity.
• For a southern touch, stir in chopped pickles or a dash of hot pepper sauce.
• Vegetarians have even swapped in lentils or plant-based crumbles as an alternative protein.

Conclusion: Celebrate Tradition with Nonie’s Best BBQ

Nonie’s Best BBQ stands as a testament to the enduring power of family recipes. It’s affordable, uncomplicated, and delicious, making it perfect for all cooks and all occasions. Whether you’re hosting a crowd or simply craving a taste of home, this barbecue recipe delivers comforting flavor and cherished memories—one hearty bite at a time.

Author

Srija Burman

 

Srija holds an MA in English Literature from the University of Calcutta and a PG diploma in Editing and Publishing from Jadavpur University. Her interest in writing and editing ranges across niches, including academics, sports, and human psychology.

Read full bio of Srija Burman