“I’ve now made this for 4 covered dish potlucks and it disappears within minutes! Folks simply rave about it. A lot of people have never tried it and those that have are so excited to eat it again!”

Instructions:

1. Cook the Meat: Start by browning your chosen meat in a large skillet over medium heat. Break it up into small pieces and cook until fully browned. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add Onions and Spices: Once the meat is browned, add the finely chopped onion to the skillet and sauté until soft. Add in your spices and seasonings, adjusting to taste. If you’re adding any vegetables, now is the time to throw them in and cook until they’re tender.
3. Combine the Main Ingredients: Stir in the tomato sauce or diced tomatoes and cooked pasta (or rice, depending on what you’re using). Let everything simmer for a few minutes to meld the flavors together.
4. Add the Creamy Element: Turn off the heat and stir in the sour cream or cream cheese. This will make the dish extra creamy and rich. Be sure to mix thoroughly to incorporate the creamy element evenly into the dish.
5. Top with Cheese: Transfer the mixture into a baking dish (if you want to bake it for a golden top) or serve it right from the skillet. Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top, and place it under a broiler or bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Once it’s ready, serve it hot, and watch it disappear! It’s always best when fresh out of the oven, but it also reheats wonderfully, making it a great dish for leftovers.

Why People Keep Raving About It

This dish’s magic lies in its balance of simplicity and bold flavors. It’s creamy, cheesy, and savory, with a slight tang from the sour cream or cream cheese. The texture is comforting—whether it’s tender meat, perfectly cooked pasta, or a luscious cheesy topping, every bite is packed with satisfaction.

Additionally, it’s one of those recipes where people who have never tried it are genuinely surprised by how delicious it is. The reaction is always the same: “I’ve never had anything like this, but I can’t stop eating it!” And those who’ve tried it before are thrilled for the chance to enjoy it again, making it a dish that keeps on giving.

Perfect for Potlucks and Gatherings

The beauty of this recipe is that it works perfectly for potlucks, family dinners, and casual get-togethers. It can be made in large quantities, and the best part is that it’s just as good when served hot or at room temperature. If you’re asked to bring a dish to a potluck, this one will quickly become your go-to—it’s guaranteed to disappear, and you’ll likely get requests for the recipe!

Tips for Success:

• Make It Ahead of Time: This dish can easily be prepped a day in advance. Simply assemble everything, refrigerate, and bake just before serving.
• Mix Up the Cheese: Use a mix of cheeses for a richer flavor. Adding some sharp cheddar along with mozzarella gives a great combination of gooeyness and tang.
• Add More Veggies: You can sneak in some extra vegetables, like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms, to make it even heartier.
• Serve with a Side: This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread to balance out the richness.

Final Thoughts

This recipe has truly earned its place as a crowd favorite. It’s a great way to feed a lot of people without a lot of effort, and the flavor is simply unbeatable. Whether it’s for a potluck, a casual family meal, or a special occasion, it’s guaranteed to disappear in minutes—just like it has at every potluck I’ve taken it to. It’s no wonder people rave about it, and it’s definitely a recipe you’ll want to keep on hand for future gatherings!