Delicious Hot Dish
A hearty baked dish combining beef, rice, barley, and vegetables in a savory mushroom soy sauce gravy, perfect for comforting family dinners and easy to prepare ahead.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground meat in a skillet and drain off excess fat.
- Add chopped celery and onions to the meat and cook until vegetables are tender.
- In a mixing bowl, combine cooked meat and vegetables with mushroom soup, water, chopped mushrooms with juice, soy sauce, brown rice, and pearl barley.
- Mix well and transfer to a baking dish.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for 1.5 to 2 hours until hot and bubbly.
- Taste and add salt if needed, considering soy sauce is salty.
- Add more water if the mixture becomes too dry during baking.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using ground turkey instead of hamburger for a leaner option. You can also substitute quinoa for the brown rice if you prefer a gluten-free grain. Enhance the umami by incorporating a splash of Worcestershire sauce along with the soy sauce. If you want to boost the vegetable content, diced carrots or bell peppers can be great additions.
Serving Suggestions
This delicious hot dish pairs beautifully with a side of Green Beans A La Spitzer for a balanced meal. A simple green salad can also complement the richness of the dish. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside crusty bread or a light pasta dish to soak up the savory sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover; heat in the microwave on medium power until warmed through, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent drying out. You can also reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Delicious Hot Dish contains roughly 600 calories, with 20g protein, 96g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (52% of the Daily Value), protein (39% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1918mg per serving (83% 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 a different type of meat in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative for a vegetarian option. Adjust cooking times as needed, particularly if using lean meats, to ensure the dish remains moist.
How do I know when the dish is done baking?
The dish is done when it is hot and bubbly, typically after 1.5 to 2 hours at 350°F (175°C). You can test for doneness by inserting a fork into the center; it should be warm throughout and the rice and barley should be tender.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the entire dish up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
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).