Dad’s Hotdish: A Comforting, Kid-Friendly One-Dish Meal
When my husband and I were first married, there was one dish that he would eagerly eat more than anything else: hotdish. After we had kids, this simple, comforting dish became a family favorite, and we affectionately called it “Dad’s Hotdish.” It has stuck with us through the years as a go-to meal that’s quick, satisfying, and loved by everyone. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, this hearty one-dish meal is perfect for busy nights or casual get-togethers. Whether you’re a beginner cook or looking for an inexpensive dish to feed a crowd, Dad’s Hotdish is sure to be a hit. Here’s how you can make this family favorite:
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ground beef | 1 lb (450 g) |
| Onion, finely chopped | 1 medium |
| Seasoning salt | 1 tbsp |
| Tomato soup | 1 can (10.5 oz) |
| Baked beans | 1 can (15 oz) |
| Egg noodles (uncooked) | 2 cups (dry) |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 480.3 kcal |
| Total Fat | 18.2 g |
| Saturated Fat | 7 g |
| Cholesterol | 77.1 mg |
| Sodium | 1164 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 53.2 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 9.2 g |
| Sugars | 24.6 g |
| Protein | 31.8 g |
Instructions
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Cook the Ground Beef and Onion:
Begin by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and chopped onion, cooking until the beef is browned and the onion is softened. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. This step usually takes about 7-10 minutes. -
Mash the Meat:
Once the beef and onions are cooked through, use a potato masher or the back of a spoon to break up the meat into fine crumbles. This will give the hotdish its signature texture. Be sure to mash the meat until it reaches your desired consistency. -
Drain the Beef:
Once the meat is finely mashed, carefully drain any excess fat from the skillet. This will ensure that your hotdish isn’t greasy. -
Add Tomato Soup and Baked Beans:
Return the cooked beef to the skillet and stir in the tomato soup and baked beans. Mix everything together well, making sure the beans and soup coat the meat evenly. Season with 1 tablespoon of seasoning salt for added flavor. -
Cook the Noodles:
While the beef mixture is simmering, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the noodles and set them aside. -
Combine the Noodles with the Beef Mixture:
Stir the cooked noodles into the beef mixture, ensuring they are well incorporated. Let everything cook together for a couple of minutes to allow the flavors to meld. -
Serve and Enjoy:
Your Dad’s Hotdish is now ready to serve! Spoon it onto plates and enjoy the warmth and comfort of this easy, satisfying dish.
Tips for the Best Dad’s Hotdish:
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Make It Ahead: This dish can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. Simply reheat in the microwave or on the stove when you’re ready to serve.
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Add Vegetables: Feel free to add a handful of frozen mixed vegetables to the beef mixture for extra flavor and nutrition.
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Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta instead of egg noodles to make this recipe suitable for gluten-sensitive family members.
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Spice It Up: If you like a little heat, add some chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture for an extra kick.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Dad’s Hotdish is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create a comforting, hearty meal. It’s a dish that appeals to both kids and adults alike, thanks to its savory flavors and filling nature. Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder, making cleanup a breeze. Whether you’re feeding a family of picky eaters or preparing a dish for a potluck, this recipe will quickly become a favorite.
Enjoy your hearty, delicious Dad’s Hotdish – a meal that’s sure to bring smiles to the table!
