With grocery prices on the rise, along with everything else it seems, we are all looking for ways to feed our families without breaking our budgets.  This menu is a great meal for feeding families economically and yet healthfully.  Layered casserole dinner uses ground beef and combines five vegetables and dairy all in one inexpensive dish.  Add a fruit gelatin mold and you have a family meal in two dishes. 

LAYERED CASSEROLE DINNER

1 lb lean ground beef

4 med red potatoes, peeled & cut into 1/4-inch slices

2 large carrots, peeled and cut into 1/4-inch pieces

1 large onion, sliced

1 med green bell pepper, sliced

1 can (15-16 oz) italian-style diced tomatoes, undrained

1/4 tsp black pepper

1/8 tsp basil

1 cup shredded low-fat cheddar cheese

Crumble ground beef into large skillet and cook until all pink is removed.  Drain well.  In a large casserole dish, layer ingredients in order listed above, omiting the cheese.  Cover and bake at 350 degrees for 40 minutes.  Remove lid and sprinkle with the cheddar cheese.  Bake 5 minutes more.

GELATIN FRUIT MOLD

2 1/2  cups boiling water

1 large box sugar-free strawberry-flavored gelatin

1/2 cup cold pure orange juice mixed with 1/2 cup cold water

1 can (8 oz) pineapple chunks, in their own juice; drained

1 can (11 oz) mandarin oranges, drained

1/2 cup chopped pecans

In a large bowl, pour gelatin powder and add boiling water.  Stir at least 3 minutes to be sure all gelatin is thoroughly dissolved.  Stir in cold juice/water mixture.  Refrigerate about 1 1/2 hours or until thickened enough that a spoon drawn through the gelatin will leave an impression.  Stir in fruit and nuts.  Spoon into a 6-cup mold that has been sprayed with no-stick cooking spray.  Refrigerate at least 4 hours or until firm.  Unmold.

Note:  Do not use fresh pineapple as gelatin will not set. 

 Enjoy!