Hot Dago Recipe: A Taste of Italy in Every Bite

If you’ve ever savored the rich flavors of Italian cuisine, then you’re in for a treat with this Hot Dago recipe. This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience, rich with flavors that dance on your palate and a history as vibrant as the streets of Naples.

Hot Dago Recipe Overview

• Course: Main Dish
• Cuisine: Italian-American
• Total Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Before you start, make sure you’ve got all the right tools to make this Hot Dago recipe shine. You’ll need:

• A large frying pan
• A baking dish
• Measuring cups and spoons
• A sharp knife
• A cutting board
• Aluminum foil (for covering)

Ingredients

Fact: The term “Dago” originates from the early immigrants in the United States, used to refer to laborers from Italy. Today, the Hot Dago is celebrated as a delicious homage to those roots.

Step by Step Instructions

Step 1-Prepare the Meat

• Combine ground beef, Italian sausage, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, eggs, and bread crumbs in a bowl.
• Mix well until the ingredients are evenly distributed.

Note: Mixing by hand is the best way to get the flavors melded together.

Step 2-Form the Patties

• Divide the mixture into four equal portions.
• Shape each portion into a patty about 3/4 inch thick.

Step 3-Cook the Patties

• Heat a large frying pan over medium-high heat.
• Cook the patties for about 5 minutes on each side, or until browned and cooked through.

Warning: Ensure the patties are fully cooked to avoid any risks associated with undercooked meat.

Step 4-Layer and Bake

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Place the cooked patties in a baking dish.
• Top each patty with marinara sauce, followed by slices of mozzarella and a sprinkle of Parmesan.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Tip: Covering the dish with aluminum foil for the first 15 minutes keeps the moisture in, then uncover for the last 10 minutes to brown the cheese.

Additional Tips

• Herbs: Fresh herbs like basil or oregano can be added for extra flavor.
• Spicy: Add red pepper flakes to the meat mixture if you like a bit of heat.

Pairing Suggestions

This hearty dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp, green salad or garlic bread. Here are some suggestions:

• Caesar salad
• Garlic bread
• Roasted vegetables

Nutritional Information

Approximation: These values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredient choices.

Dietary Information

This Hot Dago recipe is a hearty choice for those following a gluten-free diet, just swap out the bread crumbs for a gluten-free variety.

FAQs about Hot Dago

What makes a Hot Dago “hot”?

The “hot” in Hot Dago refers to the spicy elements of the Italian sausage and the warm, comforting nature of the baked dish.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely, prepare the patties and layer the dish up to a day in advance; just bake when ready to serve.

What are the best sides to serve with a Hot Dago?

Classic sides include a simple salad or garlic bread. For a low-carb option, try roasted vegetables.

Can I use turkey instead of beef?

Yes, substituting turkey for beef is a great way to lighten the dish.

Is the Hot Dago recipe suitable for a keto diet?

By replacing the bread crumbs with a keto-friendly alternative, this dish can easily fit into a ketogenic lifestyle.

How can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to three days.

Can this recipe be frozen?

Yes, you can freeze the unbaked layered dish for up to a month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

Conclusion

This Hot Dago recipe isn’t just food; it’s a celebration of flavor and history wrapped into one delicious meal. It’s perfect for anyone looking to impress at a dinner party or simply spice up a weekday dinner.

I’d love to hear how this recipe turned out for you! Leave your comments, questions, or feedback below, and let’s keep the culinary conversation going.

Check out some more delicious main dish recipes:

• Olive Garden Mac and Cheese Recipe
• Cherry Blossom Chicken Recipe
• Texas Roadhouse Salmon Recipe
• San Giorgio Mac and Cheese Recipe
• Pappadeaux Gumbo Recipe
• Cajun Ninja Red Beans and Rice Recipe

Hot Dago Recipe

Discover how to make the perfect Hot Dago recipe with this easy, flavorful guide. An Italian-American classic!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Course Main Course

Cuisine Italian-American

Servings 4

Calories 690 kcal

Equipment

• A large frying pan
• A baking dish
• Measuring cups and spoons
• A sharp knife
• A cutting board
• Aluminum foil (for covering)

Ingredients

  

• 500 grams Ground beef
• 250 grams Italian sausage
• 2 cloves Fresh garlic minced
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 2 large Eggs
• 100 grams Bread crumbs
• 2 cups Marinara sauce
• 200 grams Mozzarella cheese sliced
• 100 grams Parmesan cheese grated
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

 

Step 1-Prepare the Meat

• Combine ground beef, Italian sausage, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, eggs, and bread crumbs in a bowl.
• Mix well until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
• Note: Mixing by hand is the best way to get the flavors melded together.

Step 2-Form the Patties

• Divide the mixture into four equal portions.
• Shape each portion into a patty about 3/4 inch thick.

Step 3-Cook the Patties

• Heat a large frying pan over medium-high heat.
• Cook the patties for about 5 minutes on each side, or until browned and cooked through.
• Warning: Ensure the patties are fully cooked to avoid any risks associated with undercooked meat.

Step 4-Layer and Bake

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Place the cooked patties in a baking dish.
• Top each patty with marinara sauce, followed by slices of mozzarella and a sprinkle of Parmesan.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
• Tip: Covering the dish with aluminum foil for the first 15 minutes keeps the moisture in, then uncover for the last 10 minutes to brown the cheese.

Notes

• Herbs: Fresh herbs like basil or oregano can be added for extra flavor.
• Spicy: Add red pepper flakes to the meat mixture if you like a bit of heat.

Keyword Hot Dago Recipe