Betty Crocker's Ways with Hamburger

"Just imagine a whole collection of ground beef recipes in one little book!"

I love this book. It's small; a 5" hardcover square in the style of a children's book, which makes sense given that it was published by Golden Press in 1969.

I can't figure out to whom the book is targeted. From the style and illustrations (by Roland Rodegast) you'd think it was for Little Golden Book readers. Take this snowman for instance:

Some of the recipes are things I would expect an adult to use. Others are like this one:

 

After all, how many of you actually pull out a cookbook to make a simple burger? Sure Rachel Ray helped keep her book business alive by inventing burger variations of all flavors and protein types, but you and I generally know how to get a hamburger together. By memory.

So I can't quite figure it out, this little book.

Since the burger picture above isn't really a recipe, here's something that actually does qualify. Make it, and it won't be the milkshake that brings the boys to your yard.

Hungry Boy's Casserole

1 pound ground beef
1 cup sliced celery
1 medium onion, chopped (about 1/2 cup)
1/2 cup chopped green pepper
1 clove garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1 can (1 pound) pork and beans
1 can (1 pound) lima beans
1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste

In large skillet, cook and stir ground beef, celery, onion, green pepper, garlic and salt until meat is brown and onion is tender. drain off fat.

Stir in pork and beans, lima beans (with liquid) and tomato paste. Simmer uncovered 10 minutes. 4 to 6 servings.

That old lima bean juice is sure to keep them coming back for more!