Creating a recipe from leftovers can lead to delightful culinary discoveries, especially when creativity meets the practicality of utilizing what’s available. The “Meaty Cheese Leftovers” recipe is a perfect example of transforming simple ingredients into a comforting and flavorful dish. Below is a detailed breakdown of the recipe, along with instructions, tips, and nutritional information.
Meaty Cheese Leftovers
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
Category: Lunch/Snacks
Keywords: Pork, Meat, Canadian, Very Low Carbs, Low Protein, Low Cholesterol, Healthy, Weeknight, Oven, < 4 Hours
Servings: 4
Description:
This dish was a serendipitous creation by my husband when I was delayed coming home from work. He made use of leftover meats, cheese, and some bread from the fridge. The extended cooking time resulted in an exceptionally tender and flavorful meal that was surprisingly delicious and comforting.
Ingredients:
- Pork – Amount as available (diced)
- Beef – Amount as available (diced)
- Green onion – Amount as available (chopped)
- Butter – 1 tablespoon
- Cheddar cheese – 1 cup (shredded)
- Salt – 1/2 teaspoon
- Black pepper – 1 teaspoon
- Water – Amount as needed
- Linseed rye bread – Enough to make 4 slices
Instructions:
-
Sauté the Vegetables:
- Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chopped green onion and sauté until they are soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
-
Cook the Meat:
- Add the diced pork and beef to the skillet.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Cook, stirring occasionally, until the meat starts to brown, about 10 minutes.
-
Simmer for Tenderness:
- Gradually add water, a tablespoon at a time, to the skillet.
- Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer. Continue adding water as needed to prevent drying out.
- Cook for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the meat is very tender. This slow cooking will enhance the flavors and tenderness.
-
Prepare the Bread:
- Lightly toast the linseed rye bread slices until they are just crisp but not too browned.
-
Assemble and Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Arrange the toasted bread on a baking sheet.
- Spoon the meat mixture generously over each slice of bread.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly, about 10-15 minutes.
-
Serve:
- Serve the meaty cheese-topped bread slices hot.
- Pair with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 35.1 kcal
- Fat: 3 g
- Saturated Fat: 1.9 g
- Cholesterol: 7.6 mg
- Sodium: 21.5 mg
- Carbohydrates: 2.1 g
- Fiber: 0.7 g
- Sugar: 1.4 g
- Protein: 0.6 g
Tips for Success:
-
Leftover Meats:
- Feel free to use any leftover meats you have on hand. This dish is flexible and works well with various cuts and types of meat.
-
Cheese Variations:
- While cheddar adds a sharp, creamy flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella for a milder taste or a combination of cheeses for more complexity.
-
Bread Choices:
- Linseed rye bread adds a unique texture and flavor. However, any sturdy bread like sourdough, whole grain, or even a baguette can be used.
-
Add Vegetables:
- You can add more vegetables such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or even spinach to increase the nutritional value and add more depth to the dish.
-
Storage and Reheating:
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a microwave or oven until warmed through.
Serving Suggestions:
-
Accompaniments:
- Serve with a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to complement the rich flavors of the dish.
- A side of roasted vegetables can also provide a nutritious and colorful addition.
-
Beverage Pairing:
- Pair with a light-bodied red wine such as Pinot Noir or a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc.
- For a non-alcoholic option, try a refreshing iced tea or sparkling water with a twist of lemon.
Alternative Preparations:
-
Open-Faced Sandwich:
- Serve the meat and cheese mixture on an open-faced sandwich instead of toasting and baking. This saves time and provides a different texture.
-
Stuffed Bread:
- Hollow out a loaf of bread and fill it with the meat mixture. Bake until the bread is crispy on the outside and the filling is hot and melted.
-
Casserole:
- Layer the meat mixture with slices of bread and cheese in a casserole dish. Bake until the top is golden and bubbly for a comforting one-dish meal.
Culinary Inspiration:
This recipe embodies the spirit of improvisation in the kitchen, showing how a few simple ingredients and some creativity can result in a delightful meal. It’s a reminder that sometimes the best dishes are born out of necessity and resourcefulness. Whether you’re making this dish from planned ingredients or from a mix of leftovers, it’s a testament to the versatility of cooking and the joy of creating something delicious with what’s on hand.
Historical Context:
The concept of using leftovers to create new dishes has been a longstanding tradition in many cultures. Historically, resourceful cooking practices have been essential for minimizing waste and maximizing the use of available ingredients. Dishes like casseroles, frittatas, and sandwiches often originated from the need to repurpose leftovers into satisfying meals. This practice not only showcases culinary ingenuity but also reflects a sustainable approach to cooking that continues to be relevant today.
Nutritional Notes:
Despite the richness of the dish, the use of lean meats, moderate cheese, and nutrient-dense bread makes it a balanced choice. By incorporating a side salad or vegetables, you can enhance the nutritional profile, making it a wholesome option for lunch or a light dinner.
Final Thoughts:
The “Meaty Cheese Leftovers” recipe is a celebration of spontaneity and practicality in the kitchen. It’s an ideal solution for those busy nights when you need to make something comforting and delicious without a lot of preparation. By using what’s available and allowing for flexibility in ingredients, this dish offers a blueprint for creating a satisfying meal that can easily become a family favorite. Enjoy the process of making and savoring this hearty and flavorful dish, knowing that it’s not just about the ingredients but the creativity and love that goes into making it.
Feel free to adjust the quantities and ingredients based on what you have in your fridge and personal preferences. The essence of this recipe lies in its adaptability and the joy of transforming simple leftovers into a delightful meal.
