Slow-Cook Sweetness: Indulgent Turkey Bacon & Beef Delights

Ingredients

Serves 6–8

1 lb (454 g) turkey bacon, thinly sliced (Applegate or Oscar Mayer—adds smokiness without excess fat)

1 lb (454 g) ground beef (85/15 for juiciness)

1 cup (150 g) yellow onion, finely chopped

2 garlic cloves, minced

1 cup (240 ml) good-quality barbecue sauce (Stubb’s Original or Sweet Baby Ray’s—avoid “honey” or “spicy” for balanced sweetness)

1 Tbsp smoked paprika (not sweet—smoked adds depth)

1 tsp freshly ground black pepper

Optional boost: 1 Tbsp apple cider vinegar (brightens at the end), 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce (umami)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Layer with Intention

Line the bottom of a 4–6 qt slow cooker with turkey bacon strips—slightly overlapping (they’ll crisp and render fat).

Crumble ground beef gently over bacon—do not pack down.

Scatter onions and garlic evenly over beef.

Pour barbecue sauce over top—do not stir.

2. Season & Seal

Sprinkle smoked paprika and black pepper evenly over surface.

Optional: Drizzle with Worcestershire sauce.

Cover tightly.

3. Slow Simmer to Perfection

Cook on LOW 6–8 hours (ideal for tender, cohesive texture) or HIGH 3–4 hours (firmer, more textured).

Do not lift the lid—steam is key to tenderness.

4. Finish & Serve

Carefully drain excess fat (tilt cooker, spoon off top layer).

Stir gently to combine—break up beef into rustic chunks.

Optional: Stir in apple cider vinegar for brightness.

Taste—adjust pepper if needed. BBQ sauce varies in sweetness/saltiness.

Tips for Perfect Gravy

✅ Turkey bacon first = smoky base, no greasy puddle.

✅ Don’t stir early—let layers meld; stir only at the end.

✅ Drain fat—ensures rich, not greasy, texture.

(Note: This dish is the gravy—but for extra richness, stir in 2 Tbsp cream cheese at the end.)

Serving Suggestions

On toasted brioche buns with pickles and coleslaw

Over creamy mashed potatoes or polenta

In lettuce cups for a low-carb option

With cornbread and a crisp green salad

Paired with an IPA or cold-brew coffee

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

Refrigerate in airtight container up to 4 days—flavors deepen overnight.

Freeze up to 3 months—thaw overnight, reheat gently.

Pro tip: Portion into freezer bags flat for space-saving storage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use pork bacon?

Yes—but drain all fat after cooking to avoid greasiness.

No turkey bacon?

Sub 2 Tbsp liquid smoke + 1 Tbsp olive oil (add to sauce).

Make it spicier?

Add ½ tsp cayenne to seasoning or 1 minced chipotle in adobo to sauce.

Allergy Information

Contains: Soy (in BBQ sauce—check label), wheat (in BBQ sauce).

Dairy-free, nut-free, fish/shellfish-free.

Gluten-free option: Use GF BBQ sauce (Annie’s or Primal Kitchen).

Nutrition Facts

(Per ¾-cup serving)

Final Thought

There’s quiet brilliance in simplicity—especially when it tastes like this. As steam rises from the slow cooker, carrying the scent of smoked paprika, caramelized onions, and tangy-sweet barbecue, you’ll understand: the most satisfying meals aren’t made in haste.

They’re made in moments—of patience, of trust, of the quiet joy in returning to a kitchen that’s been working for you all day.

So layer it gently. Cover it well. And savor the kind of comfort that doesn’t just fill the belly—

it fills the soul.