Are you craving a comforting, nostalgic meal that's incredibly easy to make? Look no further than this classic Beanie Weenie recipe, perfectly adapted for your slow cooker! This recipe is a fantastic example of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals, proving that homemade cooking doesn't have to be complicated. It's the ultimate in easy recipes, perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend lunch. Get ready to experience the deliciousness of this updated family favorite!
Ingredients:
- 1 (15-ounce) can pork and beans, undrained
- 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, undrained (or your favorite bean!)
- 1 (16-ounce) can Vienna sausages, drained
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
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Combine Ingredients: In your slow cooker, combine the undrained pork and beans, undrained kidney beans, drained Vienna sausages, ketchup, brown sugar, yellow mustard, Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients thoroughly.
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Slow Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until heated through and the flavors have melded beautifully. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will develop, resulting in a richer, more delicious dish.
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Serve & Enjoy: Once cooked, serve your Beanie Weenies hot. They’re delicious on their own, or you can serve them with crusty bread, cornbread, or a simple green salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
Cooking Tips for the Best Beanie Weenies:
- Don't Overcook: While low and slow cooking is key for maximum flavor, avoid overcooking, as this can lead to mushy beans. Keep an eye on the consistency and adjust cooking time as needed.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat, or a dash of liquid smoke for a deeper smoky flavor. Feel free to experiment with other spices to suit your taste preferences.
- Thicken the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. Stir this slurry into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Variations:
- Different Beans: Experiment with different types of beans like black beans, pinto beans, or even chickpeas for a unique twist on this classic recipe.
- Add Some Veggies: Boost the nutritional value and add some texture by including diced onions, bell peppers, or carrots. Add these in the beginning along with the other ingredients.
- Meaty Upgrade: For a heartier dish, add some cooked ground beef or crumbled bacon for extra protein and flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: Approximately 10-12 grams
- Fat: Approximately 10-12 grams
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 40-45 grams
This Beanie Weenies recipe is a perfect example of delicious dishes that are both easy to prepare and satisfying to eat. It's a great option for a quick weeknight meal, a potluck contribution, or a comforting weekend lunch. Enjoy this simple yet flavorful recipe, and don't hesitate to customize it to your liking! Happy cooking!