One Pot Dinner
A hearty and flavorful one-pot dinner featuring smoky bacon, savory ground beef, and a medley of beans in a tangy ketchup and brown sugar sauce. Perfect for cozy family nights or casual gatherings, this dish offers bold flavors and minimal cleanup, making it an easy and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet, drain excess fat, and transfer to a slow cooker.
- Cook the bacon until crispy, then add the chopped onion and cook until translucent; drain and add to the slow cooker.
- Add the pork and beans, kidney beans, butter beans, ketchup, brown sugar, liquid smoke, white vinegar, and a dash of pepper to the slow cooker.
- Stir all ingredients well to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours, until flavors meld and dish is heated through.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding diced bell peppers or jalapeños to the mix. You can substitute the ground beef with turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you prefer a vegetarian version, use plant-based ground meat and additional beans. The bacon adds smokiness, but feel free to omit it or replace it with smoked paprika for a vegetarian twist.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty one-pot dinner pairs beautifully with cornbread or a simple green salad. For a complete meal, serve it alongside rice or baked potatoes. It’s also great for potlucks or family gatherings, as it serves a crowd and can be easily doubled. Consider serving with a side of Top Of The Stove Baked Beans for a classic touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm in a microwave or on the stovetop over low heat until heated through. If the dish seems too thick, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up while reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of One Pot Dinner contains roughly 558 calories, with 9g protein, 93g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients and store them in the refrigerator before cooking. Just combine everything in the slow cooker and cook when you're ready. This dish also tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld.
What can I use instead of liquid smoke?
If you don’t have liquid smoke, you can omit it or use a small amount of smoked paprika for a similar flavor. Alternatively, try adding a few drops of Worcestershire sauce for depth, though it won't replicate the smokiness exactly.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Absolutely! This dish freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating on the stove or microwave.
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).