Beef Dinner in a Dish for Two

Beef Dinner in a Dish for Two Recipe - Made with Fresh Ingredients

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Servings: 2

Introduction

The Beef Dinner in a Dish for Two is a hearty, comforting meal that combines the rich flavors of lean ground beef with the freshness of summer squash, green pepper, and onion, all brought together with the warmth of basil and oregano. This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner at home, offering a balanced mix of protein, vegetables, and carbohydrates. It's an ideal dish for those seeking a nutritious yet satisfying meal that doesn't require hours in the kitchen.

History

The concept of combining meat, vegetables, and rice in a single dish dates back centuries and spans multiple cultures. This particular recipe, with its use of ground beef and a medley of vegetables, is a modern take on traditional casserole dishes that have been a staple in American households since the mid-20th century. It reflects the evolution of home cooking, where convenience meets nutrition, without sacrificing flavor.

Ingredients

6 oz (170 g) of lean ground beef
0.25 cup of chopped onion
0.5 cup of cooked, cubed yellow summer squash
0.5 cup of coarsely chopped green pepper
1 cup of cooked rice*
1 egg
1 clove of minced garlic
0.5 tsp of basil
0.5 tsp of crushed oregano leaves
0.13 tsp of ground black pepper
0.25 cup (1 oz or 28 g) of grated cheddar cheese

How to prepare

Cook beef and onion in a medium skillet until the meat is no longer pink, stirring to crumble. Pour off the fat.
Add squash, green pepper, rice, egg, garlic, basil, oregano, and black pepper.
Spoon the mixture into a 1 qt (946 ml) casserole dish. Sprinkle with cheese. Bake at 350°F (177°C) for 25 minutes, or until heated through.

Variations

For a twist on the classic recipe, try substituting the ground beef with ground turkey for a lighter version. You can also experiment with different vegetables according to seasonality, such as zucchini or carrots.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the beef is flavorful and moist, cook it just until it's no longer pink. Overcooking can make it tough and dry. When adding the vegetables, make sure they are chopped into small, even pieces to ensure they cook evenly. Pre-cooking the rice allows it to absorb the flavors of the dish better. For a crispy cheese topping, broil the casserole for the last few minutes of baking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this dish hot, straight from the oven. It pairs well with a simple side salad dressed with olive oil and lemon juice to add a fresh, zesty contrast to the hearty casserole.

Cooking Techniques

Baking is the primary cooking technique used in this recipe, which allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. For the initial cooking of the beef and vegetables, sautéing is recommended to enhance their flavors before combining with the other ingredients.

Ingredient Substitutions

For those looking to reduce the dish's fat content, using ground turkey or chicken in place of beef is an excellent option. Brown rice can be substituted for white rice for added fiber, and any hard cheese can replace cheddar if desired.

Make Ahead Tips

This dish can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to bake. It's a perfect make-ahead meal for busy weeknights. Just add a few minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.

Presentation Ideas

To enhance the presentation, garnish the baked casserole with fresh herbs like parsley or basil before serving. A sprinkle of paprika can add color and a mild spice kick.

Pairing Recommendations

A light red wine, such as a Pinot Noir, pairs beautifully with the flavors of this beef dish. For a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon complements the meal's richness.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until thoroughly warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of this nutritious dish contains approximately 350 calories, making it a suitable option for those managing their calorie intake without sacrificing satisfaction or flavor.

Carbohydrates

This dish provides a moderate amount of carbohydrates, primarily from the cooked rice and vegetables. One serving contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates. The rice is a good source of energy, while the vegetables add fiber, which aids in digestion.

Fats

The lean ground beef and cheddar cheese contribute to the fat content of this dish. However, by choosing lean beef and a moderate amount of cheese, the total fat content is kept in check. One serving contains about 15 grams of fat, of which 6 grams are saturated. Using reduced-fat cheese can lower this further.

Proteins

Protein is a key component of this dish, with the lean ground beef and egg providing high-quality proteins. Each serving offers approximately 25 grams of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.

Vitamins and minerals

This beef dinner is rich in vitamins and minerals, thanks to the variety of vegetables and beef. It's a good source of Vitamin C from the green pepper, Vitamin A from the squash, and several B vitamins from the beef. It also provides important minerals like iron and zinc.

Alergens

The primary allergens in this recipe include egg and dairy (from the cheese). Those with sensitivities to these ingredients can make substitutions to accommodate their dietary needs.

Summary

Overall, the Beef Dinner in a Dish for Two is a balanced meal, offering a good mix of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats, along with essential vitamins and minerals. It's a nutritious option that doesn't compromise on taste.

Summary

The Beef Dinner in a Dish for Two is a versatile, nutritious, and delicious meal that's perfect for a cozy night in. With its balance of flavors and nutrients, it's sure to become a favorite. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with variations, this dish offers a satisfying dining experience.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was captivated. It was a rainy afternoon and I was flipping through an old cookbook that I had found tucked away in the back of my pantry. As I turned the pages, a picture of a steaming hot dish caught my eye. It was labeled "Beef Dinner in a Dish for Two." The ingredients were simple: beef, potatoes, carrots, onions, and a few seasonings. But the end result looked absolutely mouth-watering.

I knew I had to try making it. I had always loved cooking, ever since I was a little girl watching my own grandmother prepare meals in her cozy kitchen. She had taught me everything I know about cooking, passing down her own recipes and tricks of the trade. I had learned to cook with love and care, just like she did.

But this recipe was different. It was something new and exciting, and I couldn't wait to give it a try. I gathered all the ingredients and set to work, following the instructions carefully. I chopped the beef into bite-sized pieces, peeled and sliced the potatoes and carrots, and diced the onions. As I worked, the savory aroma of the ingredients filled the kitchen, making my stomach rumble in anticipation.

I layered the beef, potatoes, carrots, and onions in a baking dish, sprinkling each layer with salt, pepper, and a touch of Worcestershire sauce. I poured a cup of beef broth over everything and covered the dish with aluminum foil. Then I popped it into the oven and waited anxiously for it to cook.

As the dish baked, the smell grew even more intoxicating. I could hardly contain my excitement as I checked on it periodically, giving it a stir and adding more broth as needed. Finally, after what felt like an eternity, the timer dinged and I pulled the dish out of the oven.

The sight that greeted me was nothing short of magical. The beef was tender and juicy, the vegetables were perfectly cooked, and the whole dish was bathed in a rich, savory gravy. I couldn't wait to dig in.

I served up two generous portions and set the table for myself and my husband. As we sat down to eat, I held my breath, waiting for his reaction. He took one bite, then another, and his face broke into a wide smile.

"This is amazing," he exclaimed. "Where did you learn to make this?"

I grinned with satisfaction. "Oh, just a little recipe I found in an old cookbook. It's called Beef Dinner in a Dish for Two."

From that day on, it became a favorite in our household. Whenever we wanted a comforting and delicious meal, I would whip up a batch of Beef Dinner in a Dish for Two. It never failed to impress, and it always brought a smile to our faces.

As the years went by, I continued to make the dish regularly, tweaking the recipe here and there to suit our tastes. I added a splash of red wine for depth of flavor, a handful of fresh herbs for brightness, and a dash of paprika for a hint of spice. Each time I made it, it brought back memories of that rainy afternoon when I first discovered the recipe.

Now, as I sit here writing this story, I can't help but smile. Cooking has always been a passion of mine, a way to show love and care for those around me. And this recipe, Beef Dinner in a Dish for Two, holds a special place in my heart. It reminds me of the joy of discovery, the thrill of trying something new, and the satisfaction of creating a delicious meal from scratch.

So if you ever find yourself in need of a cozy and comforting dinner for two, look no further than this recipe. I promise you won't be disappointed. Happy cooking!