Chili Stacks
Delicious chili stacks feature seasoned ground beef layered with tortillas, hearty tomato sauces, and melted cheese, perfect for a comforting family meal or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef; drain.
- Add salt, chili powder, oregano, onion, and tomato sauces.
- Stir; simmer for 10 minutes.
- Layer tortillas, sauce, and cheese (ending with sauce and cheese) in a shallow baking dish.
- Bake at 350°F for 15 minutes, until cheese is melted.
- Cut into wedges and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with lentils or black beans. You can also use whole wheat tortillas for a healthier option. If you prefer a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the meat mixture. Experiment with the cheese by mixing in some pepper jack for added flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chili stacks with a dollop of sour cream and fresh cilantro on top for added flavor. They pair wonderfully with a side of Main Dish Spanish Rice for a complete meal. Consider adding a simple green salad or some tortilla chips to round out your dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, about 10-15 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for quick reheating, but the oven will help keep the tortillas crisp.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chili Stacks contains roughly 492 calories, with 23g protein, 83g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (203% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (155% of the Daily Value), and calcium (121% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1913mg per serving (83% 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 chili stacks ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the chili stacks in advance and refrigerate them before baking. Just cover the dish with plastic wrap or foil and bake when ready. You may need to increase the baking time slightly if baking from cold.
What can I use instead of tomato sauce?
If you don't have tomato sauce, crushed tomatoes or diced tomatoes can be used as a substitute. You can also blend fresh tomatoes for a homemade sauce. Just add a bit of seasoning to match the flavors of the original recipe.
Can I freeze chili stacks?
Yes, chili stacks freeze well. Assemble the dish, then cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking. This makes for a great make-ahead meal option!
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).