Chili Strata
Chili strata is a hearty and satisfying layered dish that combines crunchy corn chips with a spicy chili filling, topped with melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for family gatherings or casual dinners, this dish offers a delightful mix of flavors and textures, making it a favorite for chili lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat oven to 350°.
- Mix egg and water.
- Crush corn chips.
- Add egg mixture to crushed chips.
- Spread in lightly greased 13 x 9-inch baking dish.
- Combine chili, 1 cup enchilada sauce, green pepper, and onion.
- Spread over corn chips in baking dish.
- Bake at 350° for 35 minutes.
- Top with cheese and remaining whole corn chips.
- Bake 5 minutes more.
- Top with lettuce and tomatoes.
- Serve with remaining sauce.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the chili mixture. You can substitute the corn chips with tortilla chips or even crushed crackers if you prefer. If you want a vegetarian version, use meatless chili. This dish is great for using up leftover vegetables, so feel free to toss in any you have on hand, such as zucchini or mushrooms.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Chili Strata with a side of sour cream or guacamole for added creaminess. It pairs beautifully with a fresh side salad or tortilla chips for extra crunch. This dish is perfect for gatherings or game day, and it can also be complemented by Mexican-Style Hot Chocolate for a hearty meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating, but the texture may vary slightly compared to oven reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chili Strata contains roughly 547 calories, with 15g protein, 66g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (72% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (50% of the Daily Value), and protein (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1336mg per serving (58% 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 dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the Chili Strata a day in advance. Assemble all the layers in the baking dish, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate. Bake it the next day, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it's cold from the fridge.
What can I substitute for the Cheddar cheese?
If you're looking for a different cheese flavor, Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack cheese work well in this recipe. For a lighter option, consider using reduced-fat cheese or a dairy-free alternative to accommodate dietary preferences.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Yes, you can freeze Chili Strata. After baking, allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
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).