Are you looking for a quick, easy, and satisfying meal that's perfect for busy weeknights? Then look no further! This Marine Corps SOS recipe is a classic for a reason: it's incredibly simple to make, uses readily available ingredients, and is surprisingly delicious. This hearty dish, also known as "Shit on a Shingle," is a staple in military mess halls and a comforting favorite among many. While the name might be a little…unconventional, the taste is anything but! Let's dive into this easy recipe for a delicious and filling meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef (or sausage, for a spicier kick)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 (15 ounce) can of tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 6 slices of bread (white bread works best, but you can use any kind you like)
- 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
-
Brown the meat: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef (or sausage) until it’s cooked through. Drain off any excess grease.
-
Sauté the onion: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
-
Simmer the sauce: Stir in the tomato sauce, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. This simple step enhances the overall taste of the dish.
-
Toast the bread: While the sauce simmers, butter both sides of the bread slices and toast them to golden perfection in a toaster or skillet. Lightly browning the bread adds a lovely contrast to the rich sauce.
-
Assemble your SOS: Spoon the meat sauce generously over each slice of toasted bread.
-
Serve and enjoy: Serve immediately and relish this classic comfort food!
Tips for the Best SOS:
- For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of dried oregano or basil to the sauce. Experiment with different herbs and spices to personalize your SOS.
- If you prefer a creamier sauce, stir in a splash of milk or cream at the end of cooking.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to the meat sauce for a more nutritious meal.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Variations:
- Spicy SOS: Use hot Italian sausage instead of ground beef and add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Cheesy SOS: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the meat sauce before serving.
- Veggie SOS: Substitute ground beef with lentils or mushrooms for a vegetarian version. This makes it a great quick dinner idea for vegetarians and vegans.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is based on using ground beef and white bread. Values will vary depending on the ingredients you use.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 20-25g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 30-40g
This easy recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a quick and satisfying meal. Its simplicity and adaptability make it a versatile addition to your homemade cooking repertoire. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting out, this classic dish is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!