6 Layer Dinner
A hearty layered casserole featuring seasoned ground beef, potatoes, carrots, celery, and tomatoes, topped with colorful pepper rings—perfect for comforting family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Layer sliced potatoes, chopped celery, sliced carrots, cooked ground beef, sliced onions, and stewed tomatoes in a greased casserole dish, sprinkling salt and pepper after each layer.
- Place green pepper rings on top of the layered mixture.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 2 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
To ensure even cooking, slice the potatoes, carrots, and celery uniformly. If you prefer a lighter dish, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. For added flavor, incorporate herbs like thyme or rosemary. You can also substitute stewed tomatoes with diced tomatoes or tomato sauce if desired. This dish is great for meal prepping as it holds up well.
Serving Suggestions
This layered dinner is hearty on its own but pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. You could also serve it with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful juices. For a comforting twist, consider serving it alongside dishes like Chili Balls or Zesty Scalloped Potatoes to create a feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave for convenience, but the oven will help maintain the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of 6 Layer Dinner contains roughly 1455 calories, with 40g protein, 178g carbohydrates, and 66g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (243% of the Daily Value), potassium (99% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (96% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1135mg per serving (49% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, this dish can be assembled a day in advance. Just cover it with foil and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
What can I use instead of stewed tomatoes?
If you don't have stewed tomatoes on hand, you can substitute them with crushed tomatoes or diced tomatoes. You may want to add a little extra seasoning, such as oregano or basil, to mimic the flavor of stewed tomatoes.
Can I freeze this layered dinner?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 3 months. Just assemble it in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly, and label with the date. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).