Aztec Pie
A hearty and flavorful casserole combining ground meat, tomatoes, corn, green chilies, and melted cheddar cheese, perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground meat in a skillet; add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
- Combine the cooked meat and onion with tomatoes, spaghetti, drained corn, green chilies, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.
- Top with grated Cheddar cheese, using half of it in the mixture and the remaining half on top.
- Bake at 350°F for 20 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using ground turkey or chicken as a leaner alternative to beef. You can also mix in some black beans or kidney beans for extra protein and fiber. If you prefer a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper. This dish can be customized further with different types of cheese, like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack, for a unique twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Aztec Pie with a fresh side salad or alongside Ninfa'S Green Sauce(Guacamole Dip) for a delightful contrast. It pairs excellently with tortilla chips for a crunchy side, and can also be topped with sour cream or sliced avocados. For a heartier meal, consider serving it with Mexican recipes like Spanish rice or refried beans.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in the microwave for a few minutes or bake in the oven at 350°F until heated through. You can also freeze portions for up to 2 months, making it a great option for meal prep.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aztec Pie contains roughly 1017 calories, with 81g protein, 99g carbohydrates, and 37g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (161% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (133% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (97% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 978mg per serving (43% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can substitute the ground meat with a plant-based alternative, such as lentils or crumbled tofu. Additionally, feel free to add extra vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to enhance the flavor and texture. This way, you can enjoy a delicious vegetarian version without losing the essence of the dish.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To amp up the heat, add diced jalapeños or use spicy green chilies instead of mild ones. Incorporating a few dashes of hot sauce into the mixture before baking can also enhance the spiciness. For an extra kick, try topping with a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes when serving.
What can I serve with Aztec Pie?
Aztec Pie pairs well with various sides. Consider serving it with a simple green salad or Mexican Layered Bean Dip for a complete meal. You could also complement it with cornbread or tortilla chips, and don't forget to add some fresh salsa or sour cream on the side for extra flavor.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).