Busy cooks and families everywhere have learned to rely on crockpots and/or slowcookers. Over the years I know I have used them frequently. In fact, I have worn out 2 or 3! Whether it is summer or winter, whether you are a busy working mom or a stay-at-home housewife, you can benefit from the use of a slowcooker. This Cowboy Casserole is a good family recipe for your crockpot or slowcooker. For a simple dessert, here is a recipe for No-Bake Oat Bars!
COWBOY CASSEROLE
1 medium onion, chopped
1 1/4 lbs 90% lean ground beef
6 medium potatoes, unpeeled, sliced
1 clove garlic, minced
16 oz can kidney beans
15 oz can diced tomatoes
2 tbsp flour
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
In a heavy skillet over medium-high heat, brown ground beef, rinse with hot water and drain. Mix flour into diced tomatoes, stir until flour is smooth.
Layer into slow cooker in the following order; onion, beef, potatoes, garlic and beans. Pour tomatoes over all and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Cover and cook on low 5 to 6 hours or until potatoes are tender.
NO BAKE DATE-OAT BARS
1 pkg (8 oz) pitted dates, chopped
1 tbsp flour
1/2 cup water
3/4 cup unsweetened grated coconut
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1/3 cup Equal Sugar-Lite
2 1/2 cups quick-oats, uncooked
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Non-stick vegetable cooking spray
In a large mixing bowl, combine chopped dates and flour. Toss lightly to coat. Place water in a 1-cup glass measuring cup and microwave on high until boiling. Pour water over dates. Add coconut, butter, and Equal to dates. Mix well. Spray a square baking pan with vegetable spray. Spoon mixture into pan. Cover and refrigerate until set. Cut into 24 bars. Store in refrigerator in an airtight container.
Note: This is my version of a University of Alabama recipe.
Enjoy!