Barbara'S Mexican Meat Dish
A hearty Mexican-inspired casserole featuring seasoned beef, cheesy layers, and spicy tomato flavors, perfect for casual family dinners or gatherings with friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Butter the bottom of a long, deep pan.
- While the hamburger meat is browning with onion and bell pepper, mix in a bowl the Ro-Tel, enchilada sauce, canned vegetables, and cream of mushroom soup.
- After buttering the pan, pour a layer of tortilla chips on the bottom.
- Drain the cooked hamburger meat, then mix it with the combined ingredients from the bowl.
- Stir well to combine, then pour over the chips in the pan.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier version, consider adding diced jalapeños or using a spicier Ro-Tel. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the hamburger meat with black beans or lentils. To enhance the flavors, let the mixture simmer for a few minutes before layering it over the chips. This dish goes well with a side of sour cream or guacamole, reminiscent of Kris' Nacho Chip Dip.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty dish fresh out of the oven for maximum crunch from the tortilla chips. Top with fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, or sliced jalapeños for added freshness. It pairs beautifully with a side salad or some tortilla swirls for a complete meal. This dish is perfect for game day or casual gatherings with friends.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel to keep the chips from getting too soggy. Heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through, or reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Barbara'S Mexican Meat Dish contains roughly 484 calories, with 13g protein, 78g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (64% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (51% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1319mg per serving (57% 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 prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the meat mixture and store it separately from the chips in the refrigerator for up to a day. When ready to serve, layer the chips in the pan, top with the meat mixture, and bake as instructed. This will help keep the chips crisp.
What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
If you want a lighter option, you can substitute the cream of mushroom soup with a can of diced tomatoes combined with a little sour cream or Greek yogurt for creaminess. Alternatively, a homemade white sauce can work as well.
Is this dish suitable for freezing?
Yes, you can freeze the meat mixture for up to 2 months. However, it's best to freeze it without the tortilla chips. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then layer with fresh chips and bake as directed for optimal texture.
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).