Reba'S Surprise
Reba's Surprise is a hearty baked meat dish with creamy soup flavors, perfect for family dinners and gatherings, combining tender meat with savory vegetables and herbs.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Place the turkey, chicken, or ham in a baking dish.
- Mix the cream of chicken soup, cream of potato soup, chopped onion, chopped carrot, bay leaves, and water.
- Pour the mixture over the meat.
- Bake until the meat is cooked through, approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the type and size of meat.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding garlic and herbs like thyme or rosemary to the soup mixture. If you prefer, you can substitute the cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom soup for a different taste. Also, try using leftover roasted meat for a quicker preparation. This dish can work well with chicken recipes if you are looking for alternatives.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Reba's Surprise with a side of fluffy rice or mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce. A fresh green salad or steamed vegetables complement the dish well. It pairs beautifully with Spanish Rice Ajo Style for a complete meal that is satisfying and hearty.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the dish in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Reba'S Surprise contains roughly 865 calories, with 34g protein, 123g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (333% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (99% of the Daily Value), and iron (74% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1090mg per serving (47% 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 meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen turkey, chicken, or ham, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. This ensures even cooking and prevents any food safety issues. Adjust the cooking time as necessary, as frozen meat may take longer to reach the appropriate internal temperature.
What can I substitute for the cream soups?
If you prefer a homemade option, you can create a simple white sauce using butter, flour, and milk as a base. Add seasonings to replicate the flavors of cream of chicken and cream of potato soups. Alternatively, look for low-sodium or organic versions of the canned soups for a healthier option.
How do I know when the meat is fully cooked?
To ensure the meat is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F for poultry or 145°F for ham. Additionally, the juices should run clear when the meat is pierced. If unsure, allow the meat to cook longer and check periodically.
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).