H-E-B, the beloved Texas grocery chain, offers a wide array of products perfect for hosting a memorable barbecue. From seasonings to sides, H-E-B’s shelves are stocked with items that capture the essence of Lone Star State cuisine.
For Texans and visitors alike, H-E-B provides 15 must-have products that elevate any backyard cookout to a true Texas-sized celebration. These items range from locally-sourced meats to unique condiments, ensuring that every aspect of the meal embodies authentic Texas flavor.
1) HEB Prime 1 Brisket
HEB Prime 1 Brisket stands out as a top choice for Texas-style barbecue enthusiasts. This USDA Prime beef ranks in the top 10% of quality nationwide, ensuring exceptional flavor and tenderness.
The brisket comes from grain-fed cattle born, raised, and harvested in the United States. HEB wet-ages the meat for at least 14 days, enhancing its tenderness and rich taste.
Available in packer-style, the brisket includes both the fattier point and the leaner flat, catering to different preferences. This versatility makes it ideal for feeding a crowd at a Texas-sized BBQ.
The abundant marbling and minimally trimmed fat contribute to a juicy, flavorful result when smoked or oven-roasted. Pitmasters and home cooks alike appreciate the consistent quality of this product.
HEB Prime 1 Brisket’s reputation for excellence has made it a go-to choice for barbecue events across Texas. Its steakhouse-quality meat elevates any outdoor cooking experience, bringing professional-level results to backyard gatherings.
2) HEB Texas BBQ Sauce
HEB Texas BBQ Sauce is a staple for any Lone Star State cookout. This tangy and flavorful sauce captures the essence of Texas barbecue traditions.
The sauce combines a blend of tomato, vinegar, and spices to create a well-balanced flavor profile. It’s not too sweet, allowing the natural flavors of smoked meats to shine through.
HEB offers this sauce in convenient 14-ounce bottles. It’s versatile enough for use as a marinade, basting sauce, or condiment.
The Texas-style BBQ sauce complements a variety of meats, including brisket, ribs, and chicken. It also works well as a dipping sauce for fries or onion rings.
For those hosting a barbecue, HEB Texas BBQ Sauce is an affordable option that doesn’t compromise on taste. It’s part of HEB’s Specialty Series, ensuring quality ingredients and authentic flavor.
This sauce is readily available in HEB stores across Texas. It’s a popular choice among locals and visitors alike who want to experience genuine Texas barbecue flavor.
3) HEB Jalapeño Beef Sausage
HEB’s Jalapeño Beef Sausage brings a spicy kick to any Texas-sized BBQ. This flavorful sausage combines quality cuts of beef with zesty jalapeños for a taste that’s quintessentially Texan.
Slowly smoked over pecan wood, these sausages develop a rich, smoky flavor that complements their natural spiciness. They come ready to heat and serve, making them a convenient option for busy grill masters.
HEB offers this popular sausage in various formats. The Texas Heritage line includes a pork and beef blend, while the Premium line features an all-beef option. Both are available in regular and Texas-size packs to suit different gathering sizes.
Free from nitrates, nitrites, MSG, and artificial ingredients, these sausages cater to those seeking more natural food options. Their bold flavor profile pairs well with classic BBQ sides like potato salad and baked beans.
For those who enjoy a cheesy twist, HEB also offers a Jalapeño Cheese variety. This version adds creamy cheese to the mix, creating an even more indulgent sausage experience.
4) HEB Creamy Deli-Style Coleslaw
HEB’s Creamy Deli-Style Coleslaw is a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with Texas barbecue. This ready-to-serve coleslaw combines crisp, shredded cabbage and carrots with a creamy, tangy dressing.
The coleslaw’s balanced flavor complements smoky meats and adds a refreshing crunch to any BBQ plate. Its convenient packaging makes it easy to serve at large gatherings or family dinners.
For those who prefer to customize their coleslaw, HEB offers a Classic Coleslaw Base. This product includes pre-chopped cabbage and carrots, allowing customers to add their own dressing or adjust the flavors to their liking.
HEB’s coleslaw options cater to different preferences and time constraints. The pre-made version saves time, while the base allows for personal touches. Both products use fresh, high-quality ingredients to ensure a tasty addition to any Texas-sized BBQ spread.
5) HEB Seasoned Beef Burgers
HEB Seasoned Beef Burgers are a staple for any Texas-sized BBQ. These pre-seasoned patties offer convenience without sacrificing flavor, making them ideal for large gatherings or quick meals.
The burgers come fully prepared with a blend of spices that capture the essence of Texas barbecue. This seasoning mix typically includes salt, pepper, garlic, and other complementary herbs and spices.
Each patty is made from quality beef, ensuring a juicy and satisfying bite. The generous size of these burgers fits perfectly on standard buns, allowing for easy serving and customization with toppings.
For hosts looking to save time, these burgers can be cooked directly from frozen. They grill up nicely on both traditional charcoal grills and gas grills, developing a flavorful crust while remaining tender inside.
HEB Seasoned Beef Burgers are versatile enough to please a variety of tastes. They can be served simply with cheese and basic condiments or dressed up with gourmet toppings for a more upscale BBQ experience.
6) HEB Texas Cornbread Mix
HEB offers several options for Texas-style cornbread mixes that are perfect for a big BBQ. These mixes provide a convenient way to make authentic Southern cornbread with minimal effort.
The Morrison’s Texas-Style Yellow Cornbread Mix is a popular choice available at HEB. It produces a classic yellow cornbread with the right balance of sweetness and texture.
For those preferring organic options, HEB carries the Texas Pure Milling Organic Cornbread Mix. This mix uses high-quality organic ingredients while still delivering that traditional Texas cornbread flavor.
HEB’s cornbread mixes are pre-portioned for easy preparation. Customers simply need to add a few wet ingredients and bake. The result is a soft, warm cornbread that pairs perfectly with barbecue meats and sides.
These mixes create cornbread with a beautiful golden color and melt-in-your-mouth texture. They capture the essence of Texas-style cornbread, making them an essential addition to any Lone Star State BBQ spread.
7) HEB Hatch Green Chile Queso
HEB’s Hatch Green Chile Queso is a standout addition to any Texas-sized BBQ spread. This creamy, zesty dip combines the bold flavors of Hatch green chiles with smooth, melted cheese.
The queso comes in a convenient jar, making it easy to serve and enjoy. Its medium heat level provides a pleasant kick without overwhelming the palate.
Guests can savor this queso with tortilla chips, use it as a topping for burgers or hot dogs, or even drizzle it over grilled vegetables. The versatility of this product makes it a must-have for outdoor gatherings.
HEB’s Hatch Green Chile Queso is part of their Central Market line, known for high-quality, artisanal products. This dip captures the essence of Texas cuisine, celebrating the state’s love for Hatch chiles.
For those looking to add a touch of Tex-Mex flair to their BBQ, this queso is an excellent choice. Its authentic flavor and smooth texture are sure to impress guests and keep them coming back for more.
8) HEB Smoky Peach Grilling Sauce
HEB’s Smoky Peach Grilling Sauce brings a tantalizing blend of sweet and savory flavors to any Texas-sized BBQ. This unique sauce combines the juicy sweetness of ripe peaches with a smoky depth that perfectly complements grilled meats.
The sauce’s balanced flavor profile makes it versatile enough for a variety of dishes. It works exceptionally well with pork, chicken, and even grilled vegetables.
Its thick consistency allows it to cling to food during grilling, creating a delicious caramelized glaze. The peach notes add a subtle fruitiness that enhances the natural flavors of the meat without overpowering them.
HEB’s commitment to quality ingredients is evident in this sauce. It contains no artificial flavors or colors, appealing to health-conscious BBQ enthusiasts.
For those looking to add a unique twist to their Texas BBQ, HEB Smoky Peach Grilling Sauce offers a delightful departure from traditional tomato-based sauces. It brings a taste of summer to the grill year-round.
9) HEB Country Style Pork Ribs
HEB offers a variety of country style pork ribs perfect for a Texas-sized BBQ. These meaty cuts come in both bone-in and boneless options to suit different preferences.
The bone-in country style ribs are 100% natural, with no artificial ingredients or preservatives. They’re ideal for grilling or pan-searing followed by oven braising, resulting in tender, flavorful meat.
For those who prefer boneless options, HEB provides thick and meaty boneless country style ribs. These are excellent for coating with seasoning blends or marinades before grilling or smoking.
Both varieties are available in Texas-Size Packs, ensuring there’s plenty to feed a crowd. The large quantity makes these ribs an excellent choice for family gatherings or backyard barbecues.
HEB’s country style pork ribs are versatile and can be prepared using various cooking methods. Whether grilled, smoked, or oven-roasted, they deliver a satisfying meal that embodies the spirit of Texas barbecue.
10) HEB Sea Salt Butter
HEB’s Sea Salt Butter is a must-have for any Texas-sized BBQ. This spreadable butter combines the richness of traditional butter with a hint of sea salt for enhanced flavor.
The addition of olive oil makes it smooth and easy to spread, even straight from the refrigerator. This versatility is perfect for outdoor gatherings where keeping butter at room temperature can be challenging.
Its subtle saltiness complements a wide range of BBQ dishes. It’s excellent for slathering on corn on the cob or melting over freshly grilled steaks.
The butter also works well in marinades and sauces, adding depth to BBQ flavors. Its creamy texture makes it ideal for basting meats during grilling, ensuring moist and flavorful results.
HEB’s Sea Salt Butter comes in a convenient tub, making it easy to transport and use at outdoor events. Its quality ingredients and balanced taste make it a popular choice among Texans for elevating their BBQ experience.
11) HEB Sweet Mesquite Barbecue Chips
HEB Sweet Mesquite Barbecue Chips bring a taste of Texas to any BBQ spread. These wavy potato chips pack a flavorful punch with their smoky-sweet mesquite barbecue seasoning.
The chips offer a satisfying crunch that pairs perfectly with burgers, hot dogs, and other grilled favorites. Their bold flavor profile captures the essence of Texas barbecue, making them a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.
HEB uses natural smoke flavor to achieve an authentic mesquite taste. This attention to detail sets these chips apart from generic barbecue varieties.
For those with dietary restrictions, these chips are gluten-free. This makes them a versatile snack option for a diverse group of guests at a Texas-sized BBQ.
The convenient packaging keeps the chips fresh and ready for serving. Whether placed in individual bowls or served straight from the bag, these chips make for easy snacking.
HEB’s commitment to quality ingredients shines through in every bite. The balance of smokiness and sweetness creates a moreish snack that’s hard to resist.
12) HEB Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken
HEB’s Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken is a convenient option for Texas-sized BBQs. This fully cooked, frozen product offers a flavorful addition to any outdoor gathering.
The chicken breast filets come pre-seasoned with a zesty lemon herb blend. This saves time and effort for hosts who want to focus on other aspects of their barbecue preparations.
Each serving contains 410 calories, making it a substantial protein option for hungry guests. The chicken is already grilled, ensuring a smoky flavor without the need for additional cooking.
HEB offers this product in a Texas-sized pack, perfect for feeding larger crowds. It can be quickly reheated on the grill or in the oven, maintaining its juicy texture.
The versatility of Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken allows it to be served in various ways. It can be sliced for sandwiches, chopped for salads, or presented whole as a main dish.
This product exemplifies HEB’s commitment to providing quality, ready-to-serve options for Texan consumers. It combines convenience with the bold flavors expected at a Texas BBQ.
13) HEB Original Potato Chips
HEB Original Potato Chips are a classic snack choice for any Texas-sized BBQ. These thin, crispy chips offer a satisfying crunch and authentic potato flavor that pairs well with various dips and grilled foods.
Made in San Antonio, these chips contain no artificial flavors or certified synthetic colors. They come in a party-sized 14 oz bag, making them ideal for large gatherings and outdoor events.
Each serving of about 15 chips contains 150 calories and 10 grams of total fat. The simple ingredients list includes potatoes, vegetable oil, and salt, appealing to those who prefer straightforward snack options.
HEB also offers these chips in convenient 1 oz individual bags as part of variety packs. This packaging option is perfect for portion control or including in packed lunches.
For BBQ hosts looking to please a crowd, HEB Original Potato Chips provide a reliable and tasty option. Their versatility allows them to complement a wide range of main dishes and sides typically found at Texas barbecues.
14) HEB Spicy BBQ Chicken Wings
HEB Spicy BBQ Chicken Wings are a must-have for any Texas-sized barbecue. These pre-seasoned wings come ready to cook, saving time and effort for busy hosts.
The Texas Style BBQ spice blend delivers a bold, smoky flavor with a spicy kick. It captures the essence of authentic Lone Star State barbecue in every bite.
These wings are versatile and can be prepared using various cooking methods. Air frying, grilling, or oven-roasting all produce delicious results in just 15-20 minutes.
For those who enjoy an extra flavor boost, HEB offers complementary sauces. The Flyin’ Saucy Wing Sauce in Spicy BBQ is an excellent pairing, adding more heat and tang.
HEB’s chicken wings are perfect for feeding a crowd. They’re easy to serve and make an ideal finger food for casual gatherings or game day parties.
These wings embody the spirit of Texas barbecue. They’re a convenient option for hosts who want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
15) HEB Texas Touch Rub
HEB Texas Touch Rub is a flavorful seasoning blend perfect for enhancing Texas-style barbecue. This versatile rub combines salt, pepper, and other spices to create a classic Texan flavor profile.
The coarse texture of the rub adheres well to meats, making it ideal for brisket, ribs, and other BBQ favorites. Its balanced blend of seasonings complements the natural flavors of beef, pork, and poultry without overpowering them.
Texas Touch Rub is crafted to bring out the best in slow-cooked and smoked meats. It helps form a delicious crust on the exterior of the meat while infusing it with savory flavor throughout the cooking process.
This HEB product is designed to capture the essence of authentic Texas barbecue. It allows home cooks to achieve restaurant-quality results in their own backyard grilling and smoking sessions.
The rub comes in a convenient shaker bottle, making it easy to apply evenly to meats before cooking. Its generous size ensures there’s plenty for multiple barbecue sessions.
Understanding the Texas BBQ Tradition
Texas BBQ is a cherished culinary tradition deeply rooted in the state’s history and culture. It encompasses distinct cooking methods, regional flavors, and a shared passion for slow-cooked, smoky meats.
History of Texas BBQ
Texas BBQ traces its origins to the 19th century when German and Czech immigrants settled in Central Texas. These settlers brought their meat-smoking techniques, adapting them to local ingredients and tastes.
Early Texas BBQ focused on beef, particularly brisket, due to the abundance of cattle in the region. Pitmasters developed slow-cooking methods using oak and mesquite wood to tenderize tough cuts of meat.
In the early 20th century, BBQ joints began appearing across the state. Many were simple operations, often located in gas stations or small storefronts. These establishments helped popularize Texas-style BBQ and solidify its place in the state’s culinary identity.
Regional Variations
Texas BBQ is not a monolithic style but varies across different regions of the state. Each area has developed its own unique flavors and specialties.
Central Texas style is known for its simple, meat-focused approach. Brisket is the star, seasoned with just salt and pepper and smoked over oak wood. Side dishes are often minimal.
East Texas BBQ features more sauced meats, typically cooked over hickory wood. Chopped beef sandwiches are a regional favorite.
South Texas is influenced by Mexican flavors, with barbacoa and cabrito (goat) being popular options.
West Texas style, also called “cowboy style,” often uses mesquite wood and direct-heat methods. It includes a wider variety of meats, including goat and mutton.
Choosing the Right Ingredients
Selecting quality ingredients is crucial for a successful Texas-sized BBQ. Focus on premium meats, flavorful spices, and marinades to elevate your grilling game.
Meat Selection Tips
When shopping at HEB for BBQ meats, prioritize quality and variety. Look for well-marbled brisket, which ensures juicy and tender results. Choose thick-cut pork chops or ribs with a good fat-to-meat ratio for optimal flavor.
For poultry, opt for bone-in chicken pieces or whole birds. These retain moisture better during grilling. Consider HEB’s pre-marinated meats for convenience, such as their buttermilk ranch chicken or carne asada.
Don’t forget about sausages. HEB offers a range of Texas-style sausages, including jalapeño cheddar and classic beef varieties. These make great appetizers or main course options.
Essential Spices and Marinades
HEB stocks an array of Texas-inspired spices and marinades perfect for BBQ. Look for dry rubs containing a blend of salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder – staples in Texas BBQ seasoning.
For beef, try HEB’s Texas-style BBQ rub. It enhances the meat’s natural flavors without overpowering them. When grilling pork or chicken, experiment with HEB’s sweet and spicy rubs for a flavor kick.
Marinades can tenderize and add depth to your meats. HEB’s selection includes options like mesquite, chipotle lime, and Hill Country peach. These work well with chicken and pork.
Don’t overlook HEB’s selection of Texas-made BBQ sauces. They offer varieties from famous BBQ joints across the state, allowing you to bring authentic flavors to your backyard cookout.