Oh my goodness, let me tell you, nothing says comfort quite like a classic Church Supper Hot Dish! This recipe brings back a flood of delightful memories of community gatherings, where everyone contributed their favorite dishes to share. Just the thought of it makes me smile. Whenever I whip this up, it feels like I’m preparing a warm embrace for whoever needs it.
One particular memory stands out—a rainy Sunday afternoon where I reluctantly went to a church supper. I wasn’t feeling particularly social, but as soon as I caught a whiff of the hot dish coming out of the oven, my heart melted. The blend of flavors wafting through the hall was enough to pull anyone in! It’s not just a meal; it’s a taste of nostalgia, belonging, and the simple joy of sharing food with loved ones.
What’s in Church Supper Hot Dish?
Let’s dive into what makes this dish so special! Here’s a quick breakdown of the main players in this culinary creation:
Ground Beef: The star of the show! I typically use lean ground beef to keep things healthier, but go for the regular if you like it a bit more decadent.
Egg Noodles: These noodles are not just delicious; they add that perfect comfort-food element that warms the soul. I love using wide egg noodles for that extra bite.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: Ah, the classic! This creaminess pulls everything together, and honestly, you can’t substitute it for anything else. It’s a must-have!
Frozen Mixed Vegetables: A fantastic shortcut! I prefer the blend with peas, carrots, and corn for a pop of color and sweetness.
Cheddar Cheese: Because everything is better with cheese, am I right? I like to use sharp cheddar for that punchy flavor, but feel free to mix it up with Monterey Jack or even Pepper Jack for a kick.
Onion: This adds a beautiful flavor base that enhances everything else. I usually sauté it a bit before combining.
Salt and Pepper: To taste! These are essential for bringing out the flavors of everything. Don’t skip this part!
Is Church Supper Hot Dish Good for You?
Now, let’s talk health—because I know we all want food that tastes delicious but also keeps us feeling good! This hot dish has its ups and downs.
Ground Beef: It’s a good source of protein and iron, which is great. However, leaner options are better if you’re watching your saturated fat intake.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: While it adds richness, it can be high in sodium and preservatives. I often choose low-sodium versions or make a homemade cream sauce for better control.
Frozen Mixed Vegetables: They are packed with vitamins and fiber, making them a healthy addition to your plate. Fresh veggies work wonders too if you have them!
Overall, enjoyed in moderation, this hot dish can definitely have a place in a balanced diet. Just pair it with a side salad to balance things out!
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need to serve about 6-8 hungry folks:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 2 cups egg noodles
– 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
– 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 small onion, diced
– Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Church Supper Hot Dish?
Ready to get cooking? Here’s how to whip up this comforting dish from start to finish!
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large pot, cook the egg noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat, adding the diced onion. Cook until the beef is no longer pink and the onions are translucent.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ground beef and onions, egg noodles, cream of mushroom soup, frozen mixed vegetables, and half of the cheese. Stir until well mixed.
5. Transfer this mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
7. Remove from the oven, cool for a few minutes, and serve warm!
Serving Suggestions and Variations
Now, let’s spice things up a bit! Here are a few of my favorite tweaks and serving ideas:
– **Protein Options:** You could easily swap out ground beef for turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative if you want to keep it lighter or vegan.
– **Add Spices:** I like to sprinkle in some garlic powder or Italian seasoning for extra flavor!
– **Serving Ideas:** Pair the hot dish with a fresh green salad and some crusty bread for a complete meal that feels like a hug in a bowl.
I can’t wait for you to try this Church Supper Hot Dish! I promise it’ll bring smiles to your table just as it has to mine. If you give it a go, let me know how it turns out—happy cooking!
