Dinner made easy – a ground beef and barbecue mixture is loaded into refrigerated biscuits and baked in these BBQ Beef Biscuit Cups.

PIN IT FOR LATER!

Originally posted August 27, 2008

Easy BBQ Beef Biscuit Cups: Your Go-To Quick Dinner Solution

Life can be hectic, filled with endless to-do lists, busy schedules, and unexpected events. In the midst of it all, the last thing you need is a complicated dinner recipe that demands hours of your precious time. That’s where smart, simple meal solutions come into play, saving your evening without sacrificing flavor. These BBQ Beef Biscuit Cups are the epitome of effortless weeknight dining, offering a delightful combination of savory ground beef, tangy barbecue sauce, and fluffy refrigerated biscuits, all baked to golden perfection in a convenient cup form. They’re designed for busy families, home cooks seeking simplicity, and anyone who appreciates a hearty, satisfying meal that’s on the table in under 30 minutes. Forget the stress of elaborate cooking – embrace the joy of an easy, delicious dinner that the whole family will love.

Effortless Weeknight Wonders: Why You Need This Recipe

When the clock is ticking and hunger pangs strike, reaching for a recipe that promises ease and speed is a game-changer. These BBQ Beef Biscuit Cups aren’t just another dinner idea; they’re a “cheater recipe” in the best possible way. Utilizing readily available, pre-packaged ingredients, they transform minimal effort into maximum satisfaction. This isn’t about sophisticated gourmet cooking; it’s about providing a warm, comforting meal that hits all the right notes with everyday ingredients. Its appeal lies in its simplicity, making it perfect for those unpredictable evenings when you need a reliable, delicious option. It’s fast, it’s budget-friendly, and it requires minimal cleanup, which is a win-win in any household. Get ready to add this to your regular meal rotation, because once you experience the convenience and flavor, you’ll wonder how you ever managed without it.

What Are BBQ Beef Biscuit Cups? A Simple Concept, Big Flavor

At its core, a BBQ Beef Biscuit Cup is a delightful, portable meal that combines the best elements of a classic barbecue sandwich with the comforting texture of a baked biscuit. Imagine tender, seasoned ground beef simmered in a rich, smoky, or sweet barbecue sauce. This flavorful mixture is then nestled inside a soft, flaky refrigerated biscuit, which forms a perfect, edible cup when baked. A generous sprinkle of melty cheddar cheese on top adds an extra layer of savory goodness, creating a miniature meal that’s bursting with flavor and incredibly satisfying. They’re like individual pot pies, but with a distinctly American barbecue twist. These cups are incredibly versatile, serving equally well as a quick lunch, a hearty snack, or a complete dinner when paired with a simple side. The beauty is in their simplicity and the irresistible combination of textures and tastes.

Key Ingredients for Perfect BBQ Beef Biscuit Cups

The magic of these BBQ Beef Biscuit Cups lies in their short, straightforward ingredient list. Each component plays a crucial role in building a delicious flavor profile, making ingredient selection surprisingly impactful. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and some tips for choosing the best:

• Ground Beef: We recommend using a lean ground beef, such as 90/10 or 93/7. This minimizes the amount of fat rendered during cooking, often eliminating the need to drain it, which saves you a step and some mess. If you opt for a higher fat content, like 80/20, be sure to drain off any excess grease after browning to prevent a soggy filling. The beef provides the hearty base for our cups, so quality matters for both flavor and texture.
• Onions: Diced onions are sautéed directly with the ground beef, allowing them to soften and sweeten as they cook, infusing the meat with a delicate aromatic flavor. This subtle addition elevates the taste without overpowering the barbecue sauce. Feel free to use yellow or white onions; both work wonderfully. For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a clove or two of minced garlic in the last minute of cooking the beef and onions.
• Barbecue Sauce: This is where you can truly customize the flavor. The BBQ sauce is a star ingredient, so choose one that you genuinely enjoy. Whether you prefer a sweet, smoky, tangy, or spicy barbecue sauce, it will define the character of your biscuit cups. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different brands or even blend two favorites to create a unique profile. Since there are so few ingredients, the quality and flavor of your barbecue sauce will really shine through.
• Brown Sugar: A touch of light brown sugar is added to the barbecue sauce to enhance its sweetness and balance out any tartness, creating a more well-rounded flavor. It’s a subtle addition that truly makes a difference, but if you prefer a less sweet profile or your chosen BBQ sauce is already quite sweet, you can certainly reduce the amount or omit it entirely.
• Refrigerated Biscuits: These are the structural foundation of our cups. Look for large, “grands” style refrigerated biscuits, typically with 8 biscuits per package. Brands like Pillsbury Grands Flaky Layers or Buttermilk Biscuits work perfectly. Their size is ideal for forming the cups in a standard muffin tin, and their flaky or tender texture provides a wonderful contrast to the savory filling.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: A generous sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese melts beautifully over the barbecue beef, adding a creamy, savory finish. While pre-shredded cheese is convenient, freshly grated cheddar often melts more smoothly and has a richer flavor. However, feel free to use whichever you prefer. Other cheese options like Monterey Jack, Colby, or a Mexican blend would also be delicious if you want to experiment.

Step-by-Step Guide: Crafting Your Delicious BBQ Beef Biscuit Cups

Making these BBQ Beef Biscuit Cups is incredibly straightforward, even for beginner cooks. Follow these simple steps to bring this family-favorite meal to your table:

1. **Prepare Your Oven and Muffin Tin:** Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the oven is at the correct temperature for the biscuits to rise and brown properly. Lightly grease 8 cups of a standard muffin tin. A nonstick spray or a thin layer of butter/oil will prevent the biscuit cups from sticking and make removal easy.
2. **Cook the Beef and Onions:** Place a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add your ground beef and diced onion to the hot skillet simultaneously. Cook, breaking up the ground beef with a spoon or spatula, until it is thoroughly browned and the onions are softened and translucent. If you’re using a higher fat ground beef, drain any excess grease from the skillet before proceeding to the next step. This prevents the filling from becoming overly oily.
3. **Flavor the Beef Mixture:** Once the beef is browned and the onions are soft, stir in your chosen barbecue sauce and the optional brown sugar. Mix everything together thoroughly until the beef is well-coated and the sauce is bubbling gently. Allow it to cook for just another minute or two, letting the flavors meld. Then, remove the skillet from the heat to let the mixture cool slightly while you prepare the biscuits.
4. **Prepare the Biscuit Cups:** Open your can of refrigerated biscuit dough and separate it into 8 individual biscuits. On a clean, lightly floured surface or directly in your hands, slightly flatten each biscuit. Then, carefully press each flattened biscuit into the prepared muffin cups, ensuring it lines the bottom and extends up the sides to create a sturdy cup for the filling.
5. **Fill and Top the Cups:** Divide the seasoned ground beef mixture evenly among the 8 biscuit-lined muffin cups. The cups might look quite full, but the biscuits will rise around the filling. Once filled, sprinkle an equal amount of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of each beef mixture. The cheese will melt into a gooey topping, adding a wonderful texture and flavor.
6. **Bake to Golden Perfection:** Place the muffin tin in your preheated oven and bake for approximately 10-12 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown around the edges and cooked through, and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Baking times can vary depending on your oven, so keep an eye on them. Once baked, carefully remove the muffin tin from the oven. Allow the BBQ Beef Biscuit Cups to cool in the tin for just 1 minute before gently removing them with a knife or small spatula to serve. This short cooling period helps them firm up slightly and makes them easier to handle.

Expert Tips for the Best BBQ Beef Biscuit Cups

Achieving perfectly delicious BBQ Beef Biscuit Cups is simple, but a few insider tips can elevate your results:

• **Don’t Skimp on Greasing:** Even with a non-stick muffin tin, a little extra grease ensures your biscuit cups pop out cleanly without sticking. This is especially important as the biscuit dough bakes directly against the pan.
• **Avoid Overfilling:** While it might be tempting to load up the cups with extra beef, overfilling can lead to spillage during baking and can make it harder for the biscuit to cook through properly. Stick to the recommended amount for the best results.
• **Customize Your BBQ Sauce:** The barbecue sauce is a star, so don’t be afraid to make it your own. If you like a little heat, stir in a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes. For extra depth, a spoonful of Worcestershire sauce or apple cider vinegar can make a difference.
• **Press Biscuits Evenly:** When pressing the biscuits into the muffin tin, try to get an even thickness around the bottom and sides. This ensures even baking and a sturdy cup that holds the filling well.
• **Check for Doneness:** The biscuits should be golden brown, and the cheese should be melted and bubbly. If the cheese starts to brown too quickly, you can loosely tent the muffin tin with foil for the last few minutes of baking.
• **Let Them Cool Briefly:** That one minute of cooling in the muffin tin before serving is crucial. It allows the cups to set slightly, making them much easier to remove and handle without falling apart.

Serving Suggestions & Variations

These BBQ Beef Biscuit Cups are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways:

Serving Suggestions:

• Classic Sides: Pair them with simple, fresh sides like a crisp green salad, creamy coleslaw, or a side of steamed corn on the cob or green beans for a complete meal.
• Potluck Favorite: They are perfect for potlucks, parties, or game day gatherings. Easy to transport and eat, they’re always a crowd-pleaser.
• Kid-Friendly Meal: Offer them as a fun, hand-held meal for kids. The familiar flavors and easy-to-eat format make them a hit with younger diners.

Creative Variations:

• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few slices of pickled jalapeños to the beef mixture for a spicy kick.
• Loaded Cups: Stir in some cooked, crumbled bacon bits or finely diced bell peppers into the beef mixture before filling the biscuits.
• Cheese Please: Experiment with different cheeses! Pepper Jack for a spicy touch, Monterey Jack for extra creaminess, or a smoked gouda for a richer flavor.
• Sweet Potato Twist: For a slightly different flavor profile, you could even add a small amount of finely grated sweet potato to the beef mixture.
• Miniature Versions: If you have a mini muffin tin, you can make smaller, bite-sized versions, perfect for appetizers. Just adjust baking time accordingly.

Storage and Reheating

Got leftovers? Lucky you! These BBQ Beef Biscuit Cups store and reheat beautifully, making them perfect for meal prep.

• **Storage:** Allow the biscuit cups to cool completely. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• **Reheating:**
  • **Oven:** For the best results, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through and the biscuits are crisp again.
  • **Microwave:** You can reheat individual cups in the microwave for 30-60 seconds, but the biscuits may become softer.
  • **Air Fryer:** Reheat in an air fryer at 325°F (160°C) for 3-5 minutes for a crispy exterior.
• **Freezing:** These cups are also freezer-friendly! Once completely cooled, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer the frozen cups to a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 2-3 months. Reheat from frozen in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-30 minutes, or until thoroughly heated.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some common questions about making these easy BBQ Beef Biscuit Cups:

• **Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef?** Yes, absolutely! Ground turkey or ground chicken are excellent leaner alternatives. Just ensure they are fully cooked and seasoned well with the barbecue sauce. The cooking time will remain similar.
• **Can I make these ahead of time?** You can prepare the ground beef and barbecue mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. When ready to bake, simply warm the mixture slightly, assemble the biscuit cups, and bake as directed.
• **What if I don’t have a muffin tin?** While a muffin tin is ideal for shaping, you could try baking them on a baking sheet. Flatten the biscuits slightly, place a scoop of filling and cheese in the center, and fold the edges of the biscuit up around the filling, leaving the top open. The shape won’t be as neat, but the flavors will still be great.
• **Can I add vegetables to the filling?** Definitely! Finely diced bell peppers, shredded carrots, or even corn kernels would be delicious additions. Sauté them with the onions and ground beef to ensure they soften.
• **Are these good for lunchboxes?** Yes, they make fantastic leftovers for school or work lunchboxes. They can be enjoyed cold or reheated.

More Speedy Ground Beef Dinners You’ll Love

If you’re a fan of quick, easy, and family-friendly ground beef recipes, you’re in luck! Here are some other fantastic ideas that promise minimal fuss and maximum flavor, perfect for those busy weeknights:

Puffed Up Pizza Casserole
Taco Casserole
Beef Enchilada Casserole
Cabbage and Beef Bundles
Easy Sloppy Joes

Essential Kitchen Tools for This Recipe

Having the right tools can make cooking even easier. For these BBQ Beef Biscuit Cups, a few key items will ensure a smooth process and perfect results:

I like to use a nonstick muffin tin for this recipe. Then these biscuit cups should pop right out.
To cook the ground beef, I like to use either a nonstick skillet or a cast iron skillet.

BBQ Beef Biscuit Cups

Author: Deborah Harroun

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Servings: 8 cups

Course: Main Dish

Cuisine: American

Dinner made easy – a ground beef and barbecue mixture is loaded into refrigerated biscuits and baked in these BBQ Beef Biscuit Cups.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/4 cup diced onion
• 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
• 1 tablespoon light brown sugar
• 1 (16 oz) can Grands Refrigerated Buttermilk or Flaky Biscuits (8 biscuits)
• 1/2 cup shredded Cheddar cheese

Instructions

1. Heat the oven to 400ºF (200°C). Lightly grease 8 muffin cups of a standard muffin tin.
2. Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the ground beef and the diced onion. Cook until the ground beef is browned, breaking it up as it cooks, and the onion is softened. If using higher fat ground beef, drain any excess fat. Stir in the barbecue sauce and brown sugar; cook for an additional minute or two, stirring to combine thoroughly, then remove from the heat.
3. Separate the biscuit dough into 8 biscuits. Slightly flatten each biscuit, then press it into the bottom and up the sides of the prepared muffin cups, forming a cup shape.
4. Divide the beef mixture evenly between each biscuit-lined cup.
5. Sprinkle an equal amount of shredded cheddar cheese over the beef mixture in each cup.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown and cooked through, and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Cool for 1 minute in the muffin tin before carefully removing to serve.

Recipe Notes:

Adapted from Pillsbury Dough Magic

Nutrition information provided as an estimate only. Various brands and products can change the counts.

Nutrition Information

Serving: 1 cup, Calories: 323kcal (16%), Carbohydrates: 31g (10%), Protein: 17g (34%), Fat: 15g (23%), Saturated Fat: 6g (38%), Polyunsaturated Fat: 0g, Trans Fat: 0g, Cholesterol: 43mg (14%), Sodium: 846mg (37%), Fiber: 1g (4%), Sugar: 8g (9%)

Final Thoughts on Making Dinner Deliciously Simple

In a world that constantly demands our attention, finding moments of culinary simplicity can be a true blessing. These Easy BBQ Beef Biscuit Cups offer just that – a straightforward, delicious solution for any mealtime dilemma. They prove that you don’t need exotic ingredients or advanced techniques to create a meal that’s both comforting and satisfying. Whether you’re a busy parent, a student, or simply someone who appreciates a good shortcut, this recipe is designed to make your life easier and your stomach happier. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a fantastic meal that comes together in a flash. Don’t forget to share your creations and tag me on Instagram @tasteandtell with #tasteandtell. Happy cooking!