Five Decker Dinner
A hearty layered skillet dish combining bacon, ground beef, and vegetables, simmered in tomato sauce for a satisfying family meal full of savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut the bacon into one-inch pieces and place in the bottom of a skillet or Dutch oven.
- Make four ground beef patties and place them on top of the bacon.
- Sprinkle the beef patties with salt and pepper.
- Layer sliced onions, potatoes, and carrots over the beef, sprinkling each layer with salt and pepper.
- Place green pepper on top of the layered vegetables.
- Place the skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat and cook for 3 minutes, until the bacon begins to sizzle.
- Add the can of tomato sauce over the layered ingredients.
- Cover and turn the heat to low, then simmer for 35 to 40 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider using smoked bacon instead of regular. You can substitute ground turkey for the beef to lighten the dish or use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a different taste. Adding herbs like thyme or rosemary can enhance the overall flavor profile. If you have leftover vegetables, feel free to mix them in for a more varied dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Five Decker Dinner with a side of crusty bread or a fresh garden salad to balance the richness of the dish. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs can also elevate the flavors. This hearty meal pairs beautifully with Casserole Roma for a comforting weeknight dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking, and cover to steam for a few minutes. Alternatively, microwave in a covered dish until heated through, stirring occasionally.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Five Decker Dinner contains roughly 930 calories, with 22g protein, 142g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (333% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (105% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (92% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2617mg per serving (114% 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 vegetables in this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers. Just be mindful of the cooking times, as some vegetables may cook faster than others. Adding frozen peas or corn at the end can also add a pop of color and sweetness.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the layers in advance and refrigerate them in the skillet or Dutch oven. Just cover tightly with plastic wrap or a lid. When ready to cook, add the tomato sauce and follow the cooking instructions. This makes it a great option for busy weeknights.
What can I serve with this dish?
This dish is quite filling on its own, but you can serve it with a side of steamed vegetables or a light coleslaw for a refreshing contrast. A glass of red wine, such as a Merlot, can complement the savory flavors nicely. For more ideas, check out other American recipes.
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).