Holiday Beef Log/Stick

5 lbs Ground Chuck (or ground beef, if you prefer)
3 tbsp salt (I use Morton's Tender Quick)
2 1/2 tsp garlic powder
2 1/2 tsp black pepper (I used coarse ground)
2 1/2 tbsp hickory-flavored sauce

-Mix all ingredients in a lg bowl with tight fitting lid and refrigerate -
Stir once a day for 3days -
On 4th day mix and roll into 5 logs not over 2 inches in diameter (I can usually get 6 logs ) -
Bake in lg roaster pan with rack in bottom of pan (to avoid sticking and keep logs out of fat) -
Bake @ 200* for 4 hrs. -
Turn logs over on rack and bake 4hrs more -
Cool, then individually wrap for gifts, or to freeze.
In freezer, will keep up to 3 months,\
Thaw in refrigerator, then slice/serve with favorite cheeses, dips, crackers (wasa crackers for us Low-Carbers :), salads, pizza, or any other creations you decide upon.
Not your usual Hickory Farms Beef Stick...But pretty dog gone close and at a fraction of the cost! ENJOY!!! and Happy Holidays!!