Cactus Cones
Cactus Cones are savory meat-filled cones simmered in a flavorful tomato sauce, perfect for hearty family dinners or casual gatherings with a spicy, comforting taste.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine ground beef, beaten egg, milk, uncooked rice, chopped green pepper, taco or enchilada sauce mix, and salt in a mixing bowl.
- Shape the meat mixture into 8 cones.
- Brown the cones on all sides in cooking fat in a skillet.
- Combine tomatoes, tomato juice, and remaining enchilada sauce mix in a deep pan.
- Bring the sauce mixture to a boil.
- Place the cones (pointing up) in the sauce in the pan.
- Cover and cook slowly for 1 1/2 hours.
- Remove the cones to a warm serving dish.
- Thicken the sauce with flour if desired and spoon over the cones before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your Cactus Cones, consider adding diced onions or jalapeños to the meat mixture. If you're short on time, precooked rice can be substituted for uncooked. For a healthier twist, lean ground turkey can replace the beef. Make sure to brown the cones well for extra texture before simmering them in the sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Cactus Cones with a side of Mexican rice or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. A dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro can enhance the dish's presentation and flavor. This recipe also pairs beautifully with Mexicali Spoon Bread Casserole for a delightful Mexican-themed dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the cones and sauce in a skillet over medium heat, stirring gently until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave them in a covered dish, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cactus Cones contains roughly 1282 calories, with 14g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 126g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (28% of the Daily Value) and protein (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 483mg per serving (21% 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 Cactus Cones ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cones and sauce in advance. Assemble the cones and simmer them in the sauce, then let them cool completely before storing in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat gently on the stovetop or in the oven until warmed through.
What can I serve with Cactus Cones?
Cactus Cones can be served alongside a variety of sides. Consider offering Mexican-style corn, guacamole, or a simple side of refried beans. A light avocado salad also complements the dish well, adding freshness and balance to the hearty flavors.
Is it possible to freeze Cactus Cones?
Absolutely! You can freeze the cooked Cactus Cones in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. This makes for a convenient meal option for busy nights, ensuring you have a delicious dish ready to go.
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).