Italian Dunkers

A fun way to get a big portion of good tomato nutrition.

  • 8 ounces ground lean beef
  • 1 teaspoon chopped onion
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste
  • 1 (14.5 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1 beef bouillon cube
  • 1 teaspoon brown sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon parsley flakes
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground basil
  • Salt and pepper
  • 12 (1 ounce) slices French bread
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (6 ounces)

In large heavy frypan over medium-high heat, brown ground beef and drain well. Stir in onion and garlic powder. Cook until onion is opaque. Add remaining ingredients. Mix well. Reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour.

To serve, toast bread slices lightly on one side. Turn and sprinkle cheese on remaining side and place under preheated broiler until cheese is melted. Cut into 1-inch strips. Portion sauce into 4-ounce soufflé cups and arrange with bread on serving plates.

Serves 6

Nutrition facts per serving: 360 cal (35% cal. from fat), 14g total fat (6g sat fat, 5g mono, 1g poly), 45mg chol., 630mg sodium, 39g carbo., 4g fiber, 20g pro. Daily Value: 30% vit. A, 30% vit. C, 25% calcium, 20% iron, 19% potassium.

Adapted from a USDA National School Lunch Program recipe.