Beef And Potato Load
A hearty baked dish combining tender potatoes and seasoned ground beef, topped with a savory sauce, perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Arrange evenly in a greased, 2-quart baking dish, the sliced peeled raw potatoes and 1 tablespoon of cut-up onion.
- Sprinkle with 1 teaspoon salt, 1/8 teaspoon pepper, and parsley flakes (optional).
- In a skillet, cook ground lean beef until browned; drain excess fat.
- In a bowl, combine evaporated milk, cracker crumbs or rolled oats, and catsup or chili sauce.
- Layer the cooked beef over the potatoes and onion in the baking dish.
- Pour the milk mixture over the beef and potatoes.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 45 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding diced bell peppers or mushrooms when cooking the beef. If you prefer a healthier twist, substitute the fine soda cracker crumbs with whole wheat bread crumbs. You can also use sweet potatoes for a different taste. Remember to season the layers well, as this enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
Serving Suggestions
This dish can be served with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For heartier options, pair with crusty bread or biscuits. It also goes well with a side of applesauce or pickles for a contrasting flavor. Browse more American recipes for additional meal ideas.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. This helps maintain the texture of the potatoes and beef.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beef And Potato Load contains roughly 1476 calories, with 21g protein, 227g carbohydrates, and 55g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (98% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (81% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (54% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2941mg per serving (128% 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 frozen potatoes for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen sliced potatoes, but be sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess moisture before layering. This will help prevent the dish from becoming too watery during baking.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or cooked lentils. You can also add more vegetables like zucchini or kale to enhance the dish's flavor and texture.
What can I do if the top is browning too quickly?
If you notice the top of the dish is browning too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil for the remainder of the baking time. This will help prevent burning while still allowing the dish to cook through and become bubbly.
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).