Large Batch Ground Beef (in the oven)

To cook a large batch of ground beef (6 lbs from Costco):

Heat oven to 300 degrees.

In a large cast iron Dutch oven, place the ground beef, salting as you go, 1 teaspoon salt per pound of beef. Cover and put in the oven.

After 30 minutes, remove from oven and stir and break up the beef. Cover and put back in the oven.

Repeat until the meat has cooked for 1 1/2 hours. It should be done (160 degrees).

Put drained beef into quart freezer bags. One pound of cooked beef will be about 13 ounces.

Jalapeno Poppers

This should make enough for about 5 jalapenos.

4 oz cream cheese, room temp

1/8 teaspoon salt

pinch pepper

1/2 cup small grated cheddar cheese

3 oz bacon, cooked and chopped

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Halve the jalapenos lengthwise and spoon out and discard the seeds and membranes.

Combine the above ingredients in a bowl. 

Fill the jalapeno halves to sit level with the sides.

Place the stuffed jalapenos on a a baking sheet (or in a pie plate) and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese melts golden in color.

Serve jalapeno poppers warm or at room temperature.