Memphis-Style Barbecued Joes

By Addie

Talk about layers of irresistible flavor! You’ll find sandwiched in a bun a smoky-tangy-sweet ground beef filling that reflects the hallmarks of Memphis-style barbecue. It’s topped with creamy coleslaw, sharp cheddar cheese and crunchy french fried onions. Be sure to choose a thick, bold-tasting barbecue sauce to stand up to the intense applewood-smoked bacon.

Ingredients

• 1 lb. applewood-smoked bacon, chopped
• 2/3 cup finely chopped onion
• 1 lb. ground beef (85% lean)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 1 cup barbecue sauce
• 6 hamburger buns
• 1/2 cup finely shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 3/4 cup purchased coleslaw
• 1/2 cup purchased french fried onions
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Preparation

Step 1

1. Cook bacon in large skillet over medium heat 10 to 12 minutes or until browned and crisp, stirring frequently. Drain all but 1 tablespoon drippings from skillet. Add onion; cook 3 to 5 minutes or until onion is soft, stirring occasionally.

2. Crumble ground beef into skillet; sprinkle with salt and pepper. Cook 8 to 10 minutes or until beef is thoroughly cooked and no longer pink in center, stirring frequently. Stir in barbecue sauce; cook until heated through.

3. Divide beef mixture between buns; top with cheese, coleslaw and fried onions. Makes 6 sandwiches


VARIATIONS

Tandoori Joes
Cook 1 lb. ground turkey with diced celery and onion until turkey is no longer pink and celery and onion are tender. Stir in 1 cup purchased peanut sauce. Serve in naan or other flatbread; top with strips of cucumber and red onion, a dollop of Greek yogurt and cilantro leaves.


Cuban Joes
Cook 1 lb. ground pork with diced ham, diced onion and minced garlic until pork is no longer pink and onion is tender. Stir in 3/4 cup mayonnaise and 1/4 cup Dijon mustard. Serve in hamburger buns; top with sliced pickles and shredded Swiss cheese.