Blanche's Hearty Six-Layer Dinner 🍽️🥔🥕

This comforting and nutritious dish is a family favorite that's packed with flavors and textures! With its satisfying layers, it's not just a meal but a charming centerpiece for your dining table. Perfect for busy weeknights or Sunday family gatherings, this hearty dinner comes together with minimal prep and delivers maximum flavor. Give it a try and prepare to impress!

Ingredients

Layered Goodness

• 3 medium-sized raw potatoes, sliced thinly
• 1/3 cup uncooked rice (white or brown)
• 1½ lbs. ground beef (or a plant-based alternative for a vegetarian option)
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 2 medium carrots, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 2 tbsp. salt (adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp. sugar
• 1 quart canned tomatoes or tomato juice (tinned tomatoes work great!)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Layer the base: Start by placing a one-inch layer of sliced potatoes in a buttered deep baking dish.

3. Add the rice: Sprinkle the uncooked rice evenly over the potatoes.

4. Ground beef layer: Spread the ground beef evenly over the rice, ensuring it's well distributed.

5. Vegetable layers: Add the sliced onions followed by the carrots and green bell pepper in layers, creating a colorful display.

6. Tomato goodness: In a bowl, combine the canned tomatoes (or juice), salt, and sugar. Pour this mixture generously over the layers of vegetables in the dish.

7. Bake to perfection: Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 2½ to 3 hours, or until potatoes and rice are tender.

⏰ Tip: If you're short on time, you can slice the potatoes and veggies thinly to reduce baking time. Check for tenderness around the 2-hour mark!

Variations

• Vegetarian: Substitute the ground beef with a blend of lentils or cooked black beans for a protein-rich option that's just as hearty.
• Spicy Kick: Add some diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes between the layers for a spicy touch! 🌶️🔥
• Herbs and Seasoning: Feel free to include your favorite herbs such as basil or thyme for an aromatic twist.
• Cheesy Delight: Sprinkle cheese on top during the last 30 minutes of baking for a delicious cheesy crust.

Serving Suggestions

Serve hot, ideally with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices. This dish also pairs well with a simple side salad for a fresh crunch! 🥗

Enjoy your cooking adventure with this delightful Six-Layer Dinner! Your family and friends will be coming back for seconds! 🍽️❤️