Scout Night Meal
A hearty and simple ground beef and potato skillet dish, perfect for camping or quick weeknight dinners, with savory flavors and comforting textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a large skillet and drain excess fat.
- Add sliced potatoes, chopped onion, salt, pepper, and beef bouillon to the skillet.
- Add water to cover the ingredients.
- Bring to a boil, then cover and simmer until the potatoes are tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating garlic or bell peppers along with the onion. If you prefer a healthier option, swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or a plant-based meat alternative. To enhance the dish, you can also add some shredded cheese on top before serving, similar to Creamy Beef Rotini.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty meal pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced dinner. You might also enjoy serving it with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful juices. For a comforting twist, consider serving alongside Old-Fashioned Cabbage Rolls for a complete family feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water to prevent sticking, stirring occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Scout Night Meal contains roughly 892 calories, with 17g protein, 111g carbohydrates, and 43g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (46% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (34% of the Daily Value), and protein (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 885mg per serving (38% 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 sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Yes, sweet potatoes can be a delightful substitute! They will add a natural sweetness and a different texture to the dish. Just be aware that sweet potatoes may cook faster, so check for tenderness earlier in the cooking process.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider including diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes when you add the potatoes and onion. Alternatively, you can serve it with hot sauce on the side for those who enjoy a spicy kick.
Is there a vegetarian version of this meal?
Absolutely! You can replace the ground beef with a plant-based ground meat alternative or even lentils for a nutritious vegetarian option. Additionally, ensure that the beef bouillon is vegetarian or use vegetable broth for the cooking liquid.
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).