Meal In A Pot
A hearty, comforting one-pot meal featuring ground beef, bacon, and beans in a sweet and tangy sauce. Perfect for busy days, it offers rich flavors and can be prepared ahead of time, making it ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings. The slow-cooked blend creates a savory, satisfying dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef, chopped bacon, and small onion in a skillet, then drain excess fat.
- Combine all ingredients in a crock-pot.
- Cook on low heat for several hours until flavors meld and beans are heated through.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using a mix of ground beef and turkey. You can also substitute the bacon with smoked sausage for a different taste. If you prefer more heat, add diced jalapeños or spicy mustard. Make sure to sauté the onion until translucent for better flavor. To enhance sweetness, you might use maple syrup instead of brown sugar.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty Meal In A Pot with crusty bread or cornbread to soak up the delicious sauce. A simple green salad or coleslaw pairs well for a refreshing contrast. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside the Beef-Stuffed Green Peppers(From 1975 Edition) for a comforting, satisfying dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, transfer to a pot on the stove and warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, microwave in a covered dish, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating. You can also freeze portions for longer storage.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meal In A Pot contains roughly 458 calories, with 18g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (40% of the Daily Value), protein (36% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1836mg per serving (80% of the Daily Value).
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of beans in this recipe?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for pork and pinto beans, you can substitute with black beans, kidney beans, or any canned beans you prefer. Just make sure to drain and rinse them before adding to the pot to reduce sodium content.
How long should I cook this in a crock-pot?
Cooking on low heat for 6 to 8 hours is ideal to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. If you're short on time, you can cook it on high for about 3 to 4 hours, but low heat is recommended for the best results.
Is this meal suitable for freezing?
Yes, this Meal In A Pot freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and heat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.
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).