Farmer Chow
A hearty, savory dish combining bacon, ground beef, and vegetables in a rich tomato-based sauce, perfect for comforting family dinners and casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry the bacon slices until crispy.
- Drain the bacon fat from the skillet.
- Add ground beef to the bacon and brown it thoroughly.
- Add diced green pepper, minced onion, and diced celery; cook until vegetables are soft.
- Stir in tomato sauce, vinegar, mustard, brown sugar, salt, and pepper.
- Mix everything well to combine.
- Transfer to a baking dish and bake at 350°F for at least 1 hour.
- Can freeze half of the dish for later use.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, try adding some diced carrots or corn for extra sweetness. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider incorporating chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. You can also use ground turkey or chicken as a leaner substitute for the beef. If you have leftovers, mix them with pasta for a hearty meal or use them in a savory pie like Cheese And Beef Quiche.
Serving Suggestions
Farmer Chow is perfect served hot from the oven, garnished with fresh herbs or green onions for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with a crisp side salad or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. For a comforting meal option, consider serving it alongside Minnesota Hot Dish or other hearty American recipes that complement its flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. For longer storage, you can freeze portions for up to three months. Just be sure to let them cool before transferring to freezer-safe containers.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Farmer Chow contains roughly 261 calories, with 5g protein, 39g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is a good source of protein (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1544mg per serving (67% 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 Farmer Chow ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Farmer Chow a day in advance. Simply follow the recipe up to the baking step, cover the dish with foil, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What can I use instead of bacon?
If you're looking for a bacon substitute, consider using turkey bacon or pancetta for a similar flavor without as much grease. Alternatively, you can omit the bacon entirely and enhance the dish with smoked paprika or liquid smoke for that signature smoky taste.
Can I add beans to this recipe?
Absolutely! Adding beans can increase the protein content and add a nice texture. Black beans or kidney beans are great options. Be sure to drain and rinse canned beans before adding them to the mixture to avoid excess liquid.
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).