Hearty Hodgepodge

1½ lbs. ground beef

¾ c. chopped onion

1 clove garlic, minced

3 cans condensed Minestrone soup

1-31oz. can pork & beans

1½ c. chopped celery

1 T. Worcestershire sauce

½ t. dried oregano

In large pot, cook meat. Drain off fat. Add onion and garlic. Cook till onion is tender. Add rest of ingredients plus 3 cups water. Simmer 15-30 minutes. Better made ahead and reheated. Serve with cheese sprinkled on top if you wish. Can also add sausage or pasta. Serves 12-14.

Recipe from Better Homes and Gardens magazine, 1969.

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This is traditionally eaten on Christmas Eve with some crusty bread and Parmesan cheese. And don't worry about following the recipe exactly! Add some spicy sausage or throw in some peppers for a little heat. My mother, Sally, makes a healthy version that is just as good--if not better--than the original.