Plain And Pleasing
A comforting, hearty dish featuring seasoned ground beef topped with savory gravy, onions, and potatoes, perfect for a family dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pat out 4 equal-sized patties of ground chuck.
- Place the patties in a 9 x 13 x 2-inch dish.
- Broil the patties for 10 minutes on each side.
- Mix the gravy according to package directions.
- Pour the gravy over the broiled patties.
- Arrange sliced onions and potatoes on top of the gravy-covered patties.
- Cover the dish and bake at 400°F for 40 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding garlic powder or Worcestershire sauce to the patties before broiling. If you're looking to reduce calories, lean turkey or chicken can be used instead of ground chuck. Using low-sodium gravy mix is a great way to cut down on salt. Thinly sliced vegetables like zucchini or carrots can also be layered in for added nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty dish pairs well with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For extra flavor, serve with a dollop of sour cream on top or a side of crusty bread to soak up the gravy. For a sweet finish, consider serving Cherry And Pineapple Fruit Cobbler as a dessert.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover plain and pleasing dish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the microwave for 2-3 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat in an oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Plain And Pleasing contains roughly 924 calories, with 42g protein, 86g carbohydrates, and 46g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (84% of the Daily Value), potassium (54% of the Daily Value), and iron (33% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 715mg per serving (31% 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 frozen potatoes instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen sliced potatoes. Just be sure to adjust the baking time as they may require a few extra minutes to cook through. Thawing them beforehand will also help achieve a better texture.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider mixing in crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into the gravy. You can also serve it with a hot sauce of your choice on the side for those who enjoy a spicy kick.
What can I substitute for the brown gravy mix?
If you prefer a homemade option, you can whisk together beef broth, cornstarch, and seasonings like onion powder and garlic powder to create a simple gravy. This allows for more control over flavor and sodium content.
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).