Layered Hot Dish
Layered Hot Dish offers a comforting combination of rice, corn, ground beef, and flavorful tomato sauce, topped with crispy bacon. Its hearty flavors and simple ingredients make it perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, providing a satisfying and savory meal that appeals to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Layer the uncooked rice and drained corn in a baking dish.
- Sprinkle with salt and pepper, then pour over one can of tomato sauce and half a can of water.
- Add chopped onion and green pepper on top, then layer the ground beef.
- Season with additional salt and pepper.
- Pour the second can of tomato sauce and quarter can of water over the top.
- Cover the dish with bacon slices.
- Bake covered at 350°F for about 1 hour.
- Remove the cover and bake for an additional 30 minutes or until the bacon is crisp.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using chicken or vegetable broth instead of water. You can substitute the ground beef with turkey or even a meat alternative for a lighter dish. Incorporating spices like garlic powder or cumin can enhance the taste. If you're short on time, precooked rice can be used, but adjust the baking time accordingly. This dish is reminiscent of classic American recipes like Meat Loaf With Rice.
Serving Suggestions
This layered hot dish pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You can also serve it with crusty bread to soak up the sauce. For a heartier side, consider mashed potatoes, which complement the flavors beautifully. This dish is a comforting option that fits into the homey vibe of Beef And Cabbage Casserole.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the dish in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions on medium power until warm, ensuring they do not dry out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Layered Hot Dish contains roughly 250 calories, with 11g protein, 32g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1666mg per serving (72% 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 this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the dish a day ahead and refrigerate it before baking. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge to ensure it’s heated through completely.
What can I use instead of ground beef?
Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives work well in this recipe. Each option will provide a different flavor profile, so choose based on your preference or dietary needs.
How do I know when the dish is done?
The dish is done when the ground beef is fully cooked and the rice is tender. The bacon on top should be crispy, and the sauce should be bubbling. If needed, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches at least 160°F.
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).