Al Kelley'S S.O.S
Al Kelley's S.O.S features savory beef and creamy cheese sauce served over toast, perfect for a comforting, hearty meal that appeals to cheese lovers and comfort food fans.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook ground beef in a frypan; drain off excess fat and set aside.
- Melt margarine in a saucepan.
- Blend 3 tablespoons flour and milk until smooth; add to the melted margarine.
- Add 6 or 7 ounces of sliced American cheese, in strips, to the milk sauce over low heat until smooth.
- Add more cheese or milk to control the sauce consistency as needed.
- Add the cooked beef to the cheese sauce and mix well.
- Serve the beef and cheese sauce over toast.
- Optionally, add pepper, onion powder, or garlic powder to taste.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier sauce, consider using half-and-half instead of milk. If you're out of American cheese, a blend of cheddar and mozzarella can work well. To add flavor, try incorporating sautéed onions or bell peppers with the ground beef. For a spicy twist, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce. This dish is reminiscent of classic American recipes, making it a comforting choice for any meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the beef and cheese sauce over toasted bread or biscuits for a hearty meal. Pair with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced plate. This dish also complements crispy potato wedges or seasoned fries. For a twist, try serving it with a side of Flavorful Rice for a filling option that enhances the meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent the cheese from separating. If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of milk to bring it back to a creamy consistency. Avoid microwaving as it can make the cheese grainy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Al Kelley'S S.O.S contains roughly 1029 calories, with 30g protein, 64g carbohydrates, and 72g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (60% of the Daily Value) and iron (35% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 539mg per serving (23% 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 use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute for beef in this recipe. It will provide a lighter taste while still delivering a satisfying texture. Just be sure to season it well, as turkey can be more bland than beef. Cooking times may be similar, but make sure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
How do I make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with cooked lentils or plant-based meat alternatives. You can also add sautéed mushrooms for a meaty texture. Ensure that the cheese used is vegetarian-friendly, and you can keep the rest of the recipe the same for a delicious meatless meal.
What can I serve with Al Kelley's S.O.S?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or coleslaw for a refreshing contrast. You might also consider serving it alongside crispy hash browns or roasted vegetables. For a more filling meal, try it with biscuits or cornbread, which complements the creamy cheese sauce beautifully.
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).