Hearty Bean Casserole

    I came across this recipe on the back of a can of beans several years ago, it is one of those versitile recipes that you can bring to a cookout, serve on a buffet or make at your campsite in your dutch oven.  If you are new to dutch oven cooking and want to start out with something simple, this is the recipe for you.  People love it, it's easy to throw together and you can double it to serve a crowd.  I like to make it with maple flavored bacon and baked beans.  Substitute cider vinegar to give it a bit more tanginess. I cook it in a 10 inch oven with 10 coals on the bottom and 12-14 on the top. Give it a stir halfway through cooking time.

Hearty Bean Casserole
1 lb. ground beef
4 slices bacon
1/2 cup chopped onion
1 28 oz. can baked beans
1 15 oz. can light red kidney beans, drained
1/2 cup firmly packed brown sugar
1/2 cup ketsup
1 Tblsp. vinegar
1 Tblsp. mustard

     In dutch oven, over a full compliment of coals, brown ground beef, bacon, and onion; drain.
     Add all remaining ingredients; mix well.
     Cover and bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes or until bubbly.
     Let sit for 15 minutes so juices can be absorbed.  Serves 6.

Saute beef, bacon, and onions together

Hot and bubbling

Let sit for 15 minutes to soak up the juices