Labscotch
Labscotch is a hearty layered casserole combining potatoes, beef, tomatoes, and onions, topped with cracker crumbs and baked to a comforting, savory finish perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Layer raw sliced potatoes, chopped onion, salt, pepper, ground beef, and canned tomatoes in a large greased casserole dish, alternating ingredients to form layers.
- Top the layered mixture with cracker crumbs.
- Pour milk over the top of the casserole.
- Dot the surface with small pieces of butter.
- Cover the casserole and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 2 hours.
- Remove the cover after 1 hour of baking to allow the top to brown slightly.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using seasoned salt instead of regular salt. If you're short on time, pre-cooked ground beef can be substituted for the raw to speed up the process. You can also use sweet potatoes for a different taste and texture. Be sure to grease the casserole dish well to prevent sticking, as the layered ingredients can be prone to it.
Serving Suggestions
This labscotch is hearty enough to serve as a main dish. Pair it with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It also goes well with crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices. For a twist, enjoy it alongside a serving of Aunt Donna's Vermont Beef Stew for a comforting, beef-centric dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, but the oven will help maintain the texture of the cracker topping.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Labscotch contains roughly 274 calories, with 18g protein, 3g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 560mg per serving (24% 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 labscotch ahead of time?
Yes, labscotch can be prepared a day in advance. Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven. This helps ensure even cooking.
What type of tomatoes should I use in this recipe?
You can use canned diced tomatoes or crushed tomatoes according to your preference. If you like a thicker consistency, crushed tomatoes are ideal. For a fresher flavor, use canned tomatoes with added herbs or spices. Avoid tomato sauce, as it may alter the intended texture.
Can I add other vegetables to the layers?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini. Just make sure to slice them thinly so they cook through in the allotted baking time. This will not only enhance the flavor but also add more nutrition to the dish.
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).