Six Layer Dish
A hearty six-layer casserole combining potatoes, carrots, rice, onions, ground beef, and tomatoes, baked with a hint of sweetness from brown sugar for a comforting, savory dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
- Layer sliced potatoes, sliced carrots, uncooked rice, sliced onions, and ground beef in a greased 2-quart casserole dish, seasoning each layer with salt and pepper.
- Pour canned tomatoes over the layered ingredients.
- Sprinkle brown sugar evenly over the top.
- Bake uncovered at 300°F (150°C) for 2 1/2 to 3 hours until cooked through and flavorful.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary between the layers. If you want a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with lentils or a meat alternative. Also, you can use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a different twist. To save time, prep the vegetables and layer them the night before for an easy weeknight dinner.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty six layer dish with a simple green salad for a refreshing contrast. A side of crusty bread can help soak up the delicious tomato sauce. For a complete meal, pair it with a glass of red wine. This dish also goes well with recipes like Vegetable Super Soup for a comforting dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture. This dish can also be frozen for up to three months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Six Layer Dish contains roughly 1707 calories, with 41g protein, 343g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (333% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (122% of the Daily Value), and potassium (92% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2629mg per serving (114% 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 brown rice instead of uncooked white rice?
Yes, you can substitute brown rice for uncooked white rice, but you will need to adjust the cooking time. Brown rice takes longer to cook, so you might want to add an additional 30 minutes to the baking time and ensure there's enough liquid in the dish.
What can I serve with this dish?
This six layer dish pairs well with a light salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness. You might also consider serving it with crusty bread or rolls to soak up the sauce. For a heartier meal, a side of roasted Brussels sprouts would complement the flavors nicely.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble the layers the night before and keep it covered in the refrigerator. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's going into the oven cold. This makes it a great option for busy weeknights.
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).