Wendell'S Depression Casserole
A hearty, nostalgic casserole with tender potatoes, sweet tomatoes, and savory onions, layered with sugar and flour for a comforting, budget-friendly meal suitable for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix flour and sugar together in a bowl.
- Place about 1 cup of tomatoes into the bottom of a casserole dish.
- Add a layer of sliced potatoes, followed by sliced onions.
- Top with more tomatoes.
- Sprinkle the flour and sugar mixture over the layers, then season with salt and pepper.
- Dot the top with butter or oleo.
- Continue layering until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of tomatoes and dots of butter on top.
- Bake in a 350°F oven for about 45 minutes until the potatoes are tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding herbs such as thyme or basil between the layers. If you prefer a thicker consistency, use a bit more flour in the mixture. You can substitute olive oil for butter or oleo for a healthier option. This recipe is versatile, allowing you to include leftover vegetables or even ground meat if desired.
Serving Suggestions
Wendell's Depression Casserole is hearty enough to serve as a main dish, but it pairs beautifully with a side salad or steamed green beans for a complete meal. Consider serving it alongside Grandma Merritt's Sweet Potato Biscuits to complement the flavors. A drizzle of balsamic glaze on the side can add a nice touch.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for a quicker option, but the oven helps retain the casserole's texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Wendell'S Depression Casserole contains roughly 528 calories, with 8g protein, 77g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (48% of the Daily Value), potassium (40% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. It also contributes 8g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 different types of potatoes?
Yes, you can use any type of potatoes you prefer, such as Yukon Gold or red potatoes. Just keep in mind that different varieties may alter the texture slightly, with waxy potatoes holding their shape better than starchy ones.
Is it possible to make this dish vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute the butter or oleo with a plant-based butter and use vegetable broth instead of butter for added flavor. The flour and sugar are already vegan, making it easy to modify this recipe to fit a vegan diet.
How can I make the casserole spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes between the layers. You can also serve it with a side of hot sauce for those who enjoy an extra kick.
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).