Creamed Tacos
Creamed tacos are a comforting and hearty dish that combines seasoned ground beef with a creamy cheese sauce, all layered between soft flour tortillas. This Mexican-inspired recipe is perfect for family dinners or gatherings, offering rich flavors that everyone will love, especially those who enjoy cheesy, savory meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook ground beef, onion, and bell pepper together in a skillet; drain meat.
- In a double boiler, mix the Ro-Tel tomatoes, evaporated milk, and Velveeta cheese; heat until cheese melts.
- Layer ingredients from the skillet on the bottom of an ungreased casserole dish, then spread cheese mixture on top of the meat, followed by a layer of flour tortillas.
- Repeat layers until all ingredients are used.
- Bake together in a 350° oven for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider seasoning the ground beef with taco seasoning or cumin. If you prefer a lighter option, ground turkey can be used in place of beef. To enhance the dish, add chopped black olives or corn between the layers. You can also use low-fat cheese for a healthier twist. If you like more heat, include diced jalapenos in the cheese mixture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Creamed Tacos with a side of fresh guacamole or a simple salad for a complete meal. You can also pair it with tortilla chips for added crunch. This dish works well for casual gatherings, as it’s easy to serve buffet-style. For a fun twist, consider serving it alongside Mexican recipes like Taco Salad, which is easier for kids to eat than traditional tacos.
Storage & Reheating
Store 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 20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, covered, for 1-2 minutes, but be careful not to overcook, as the tortillas can become chewy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Creamed Tacos contains roughly 379 calories, with 13g protein, 38g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (40% of the Daily Value) and protein (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 543mg per serving (24% 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 layered ingredients in advance and refrigerate them before baking. Just cover the dish tightly with foil. When ready to serve, bake directly from the fridge, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While Velveeta gives a creamy texture, you can substitute with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or a blend of cheddar and cream cheese for a different flavor profile. Just ensure that the cheese melts well for the best consistency.
How do I make it vegetarian?
To make Creamed Tacos vegetarian, replace the ground beef with sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or a mix of beans. You can also add more vegetables like zucchini or spinach. Adjust the seasoning to enhance the flavors, and this dish will still be delicious and hearty!
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).