Meat And Veggie Bake
A hearty baked dish combining crispy bacon, savory ground beef, and tender vegetables all cooked in a single dish. The smoky, meaty flavors are complemented by the sweetness of carrots and potatoes, making it perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings with comforting, satisfying taste.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Line the bottom of a 9 x 13-inch baking dish with strips of bacon.
- Crumble raw ground beef over the bacon.
- Slice potatoes and place them over the ground beef.
- Peel and slice carrots and put them on top of the potatoes.
- Slice the onion and place it on top of the carrots.
- Pour 1 cup of water over all the ingredients.
- Bake at 350°F for 60 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a crispy bacon texture, consider partially cooking the bacon before layering it in the baking dish. You can also substitute turkey bacon or omit it for a lighter dish. If you're short on time, pre-packaged mixed vegetables can replace the fresh carrots and potatoes, making this a quick meal. Experiment with seasonings like garlic powder or thyme to enhance flavors.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Meat And Veggie Bake with a side salad or crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs can elevate the flavors. This hearty bake pairs beautifully with Grandma'S Swiss Steak for a comforting meal or can be accompanied by a light, crisp white wine for a special touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave, covering with a damp paper towel to retain moisture, or reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. This dish also freezes well; just ensure it's fully cooled before freezing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meat And Veggie Bake contains roughly 532 calories, with 16g protein, 56g carbohydrates, and 28g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (64% of the Daily Value), protein (32% of the Daily Value), and potassium (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin C. It also contributes 7g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 other types of meat in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. For a richer flavor, consider using sausage or even a mix of meats. Just ensure the cooking times remain consistent to ensure everything is cooked through.
How can I adjust the recipe for a smaller group?
To adjust the recipe for fewer servings, simply halve the ingredients and use a smaller baking dish, such as an 8x8-inch pan. Keep the cooking time similar but check for doneness a bit earlier, as smaller portions may cook faster.
What can I serve with this dish?
This Meat And Veggie Bake is quite filling on its own, but you can enhance the meal with some steamed green beans or a simple green salad for added freshness. Consider serving with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the bake.
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).