Spic-A-Dilla
A hearty Italian casserole combining tender beef, endive, and eggs with savory flavors, perfect for comforting family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the cut-up meat with chopped onion and chopped parsley until the meat is done.
- Add about 1/2 cup water and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Cook the endive in water until done; drain well and set aside.
- In another bowl, mix the beaten eggs, softened margarine, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Add the cooked endive and egg mixture to the meat mixture and stir until well blended.
- Pour the mixture into a casserole dish.
- Bake at 350°F until the eggs are set and cooked through, about 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using beef broth instead of water while simmering the meat. If you prefer a lighter option, you can substitute endive with spinach or kale. Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can enhance the dish's spiciness. If you want to save time, pre-cooked chicken can be used instead of beef. This dish pairs beautifully with Italian recipes like Major Meal Lasagna.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Spic-A-Dilla warm, garnished with fresh parsley or grated cheese for added flavor. It pairs nicely with a side salad or crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside mashed potatoes. This dish also complements other beef recipes, making it a versatile addition to your dinner table.
Storage & Reheating
Allow leftovers to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual servings on medium power until hot, stirring occasionally.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spic-A-Dilla contains roughly 1154 calories, with 22g protein, 55g carbohydrates, and 100g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (161% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (92% of the Daily Value), and potassium (79% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1615mg per serving (70% 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 make Spic-A-Dilla ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish a day in advance. Simply follow the recipe up to the baking step, then cover and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake it directly from the fridge, extending the cooking time by about 10 minutes to ensure it’s heated through.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Absolutely! You can replace the beef with sautéed mushrooms or a combination of your favorite vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers. Use vegetable broth instead of water, and ensure the margarine is plant-based to keep it vegetarian-friendly.
What can I serve with Spic-A-Dilla?
Spic-A-Dilla pairs wonderfully with a fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables. For a heartier option, consider serving it with garlic bread or rice. The creamy texture of a side of mashed potatoes also complements the dish beautifully, making it a satisfying meal.
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).