Casserole Ole
A cheesy, flavorful casserole combining Velveeta shells with seasoned ground meat, chilies, and fresh toppings, perfect for a comforting family meal or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prepare Velveeta shells and cheese dinner as directed on the package.
- Add drained chopped green chilies to the prepared cheese mixture.
- Brown and drain the ground beef or turkey.
- Stir in taco seasoning and water into the meat. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.
- Combine the cheese mixture with the meat mixture and place in a 1 1/2-quart casserole dish.
- Bake the casserole at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes.
- Before serving, top with sour cream and chopped tomato.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit more sour cream or a dollop of cream cheese to the cheese mixture. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the ground beef or turkey with black beans or lentils. You can also experiment by incorporating corn or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition, which pairs beautifully with Beef Taco Salad.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Casserole Ole with a side of tortilla chips or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. You can also enhance the dish by offering toppings like sliced jalapeños, fresh cilantro, or additional sour cream. This dish pairs nicely with Spanish Rice Hot Dish for an even heartier spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Casserole Ole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for quick reheating, ensuring they are heated evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Casserole Ole contains roughly 347 calories, with 16g protein, 38g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (31% of the Daily Value) and iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2578mg per serving (112% 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 use a different type of cheese instead of Velveeta?
Yes, you can substitute Velveeta with a combination of cheddar and cream cheese for a different flavor profile. Just ensure the cheese is able to melt well to achieve the desired creamy consistency.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just cover it tightly with foil. When ready to bake, simply remove the foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, allowing a few extra minutes for baking.
Can I add more vegetables to this casserole?
Definitely! Adding vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or corn can enhance the dish's flavor and nutrition. Just sauté them slightly before mixing in to ensure they are tender and fully incorporated into the casserole.
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).