Clark'S Blue Plate Special
A comforting layered casserole featuring crispy potato rounds, seasoned ground meat, tender broccoli, creamy soup, shredded cheese, and crispy onions for a savory family favorite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place potato rounds or Tater Tots on the bottom of an 11 x 7-inch glass or aluminum pan.
- Bake for 10 minutes.
- Meanwhile, cook ground turkey or beef in a skillet on the stovetop until done.
- Remove the potatoes from the oven and add the cooked meat over the top of the potatoes.
- Layer chopped frozen broccoli over the meat.
- Mix cream of celery soup and milk until well combined, then pour over the broccoli layer.
- Sprinkle shredded Cheddar cheese (or Monterey Jack) over the top.
- Garnish with Durkee onions.
- Return the casserole to the oven and bake for 20 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a healthier twist, consider swapping ground turkey for lean ground chicken or using cauliflower tots instead of potato rounds. You can also add spices like onion powder or smoked paprika for extra flavor. If you're short on time, pre-cooked frozen broccoli can be a quick substitute for fresh. This dish is versatile, so feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers or spinach.
Serving Suggestions
This Blue Plate Special pairs well with a simple side salad or steamed green beans for a complete meal. For a heartier option, serve with crusty bread or garlic knots. It’s also a great dish for potlucks or family gatherings, sure to please both kids and adults alike. Browse more American recipes for additional meal ideas.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave individual servings, but the oven will help maintain the casserole's crispy topping.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Clark'S Blue Plate Special contains roughly 1186 calories, with 69g protein, 112g carbohydrates, and 57g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (223% of the Daily Value), protein (138% of the Daily Value), and calcium (74% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1219mg per serving (53% 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 different types of cheese in this recipe?
Absolutely! While Cheddar is a classic choice, you can substitute it with Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack for a kick, or even a blend of cheeses for a more complex flavor. Just make sure to adjust the amount based on your taste preference.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking step and cover it tightly in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to serve, simply bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if needed.
What can I do if I don't have cream of celery soup?
If you don't have cream of celery soup, you can make a quick homemade substitute using a roux of butter, flour, and milk, seasoned with celery salt. Alternatively, any cream soup like cream of mushroom or chicken can work well as a replacement.
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).