Chili Chip Bake
A hearty, cheesy chili chip bake featuring seasoned ground beef, beans, and crispy corn chips, perfect for a comforting family dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef in a skillet.
- Drain off excess fat.
- Remove from heat; add pinto beans, enchilada sauce, tomato sauce, half of the shredded cheese, and minced onion.
- Set aside 1 cup of corn chips.
- Stir remaining corn chips into the meat mixture.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 2-quart casserole dish.
- Cover and bake in a 375°F oven for 30 minutes.
- Top with sour cream and sprinkle with the remaining cheese.
- Sprinkle with the remaining corn chips on top.
- Continue baking until the cheese is melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the meat mixture. If you're short on time, use pre-cooked ground beef or even turkey for a leaner option. Consider substituting pinto beans with black beans for a different flavor profile, or try using a mix of cheeses like cheddar for added richness. Serve with a side salad for a fresh contrast.
Serving Suggestions
This Chili Chip Bake is hearty enough to stand alone, but it pairs beautifully with a side of cornbread or a fresh green salad. For an extra touch, serve with additional sour cream or guacamole on the side. This dish is perfect for game day gatherings or casual family dinners, similar to other comforting American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store 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 retain moisture, heating in 30-second increments until warmed through. You can also reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated thoroughly, about 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chili Chip Bake contains roughly 753 calories, with 24g protein, 65g carbohydrates, and 45g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (47% of the Daily Value) and calcium (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1030mg per serving (45% 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 ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meat mixture and assemble the dish a day in advance. Cover it tightly and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What can I substitute for ground beef?
You can easily substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you prefer a vegetarian version, use a mix of sautéed mushrooms and lentils or canned beans to replace the meat while still maintaining a hearty texture.
Can I freeze the Chili Chip Bake?
Absolutely! This dish freezes well. To freeze, prepare and bake it as directed, then let it cool completely. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven until hot.
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).