Depression Treat

Prep: 15 min Cook: 20 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: American

A hearty, nostalgic dish featuring savory meatballs simmered in flavorful pork and beans, perfect for comforting, budget-friendly meals that appeal to family and friends alike.

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Ingredients

  • 1/2 lb hamburger
  • 1 small onion, minced
  • salt to taste

Instructions

  1. Make small meatballs about walnut size using hamburger, minced onion, salt, and pepper.
  2. Fry the meatballs until they are browned.
  3. Add the can of pork and beans to the skillet with the meatballs.
  4. Simmer the mixture for a while until flavors meld and everything is heated through.

Tips & Substitutions

To enhance the flavor of your meatballs, consider adding herbs such as parsley or oregano. If you want a spicier kick, a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes can be added. For a healthier twist, substitute lean ground turkey for the hamburger. Additionally, using fresh minced garlic can deepen the overall taste of the dish. Pair it with sides like Bacon-Onion Green Beans for a complete meal.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the meatballs and beans over a bed of rice or with crusty bread for a hearty meal. This dish pairs beautifully with a side salad or roasted vegetables. For a comforting twist, consider serving it alongside House Of Representatives Soup, which complements the flavors well. Enjoy it as a cozy family dinner or a casual get-together dish.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, or microwave in short intervals until hot. If the mixture appears dry, add a splash of broth or water to maintain moisture while reheating.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Depression Treat contains roughly 216 calories, with 8g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is a good source of protein (16% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 796mg per serving (35% of the Daily Value).

216 kcal 11% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 7.9g 16% DV
Total Fat 11.1g 14% DV
Carbs 21.3g 8% DV
Fiber 1.3g 5% DV
Sugar 1.3g 3% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 795.8mg 35% DV
Potassium 140.9mg 3% DV
Cholesterol 18.1mg 6% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin C 0.6mg 1% DV
Calcium 66.5mg 5% DV
Iron 1.5mg 8% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute the hamburger with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative for a vegetarian version. Just be mindful of cooking times as different meats may require adjustments.

What can I serve with Depression Treat?

This dish pairs nicely with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with a simple green salad, crusty bread, or even a side of grilled vegetables. A side of Bacon 'N' Egg Casserole could also complement a brunch version of this meal.

How can I adjust the seasoning in this recipe?

You can easily adjust the seasoning by tasting the mixture as it cooks. If you prefer a bolder flavor, add more salt, pepper, or even a pinch of garlic powder. Experiment with additional spices like paprika or cumin for a unique twist.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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