Derek'S South Of The Border Casserole
A hearty, flavorful casserole combining seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, and crunchy chips, perfect for a satisfying family dinner with bold Tex-Mex flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef with finely chopped onion; add diced green chilies and Ro-Tel tomatoes.
- Add chili powder, salt, and pepper to the beef mixture.
- Let simmer on low heat for 30 minutes.
- Stir in cream of mushroom soup into the beef mixture.
- In a casserole dish, layer the bottom with Doritos nacho chips and sprinkle with Cheddar cheese.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) until the cheese melts and bubbly.
- Serve topped with sour cream.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using seasoned ground beef or substituting turkey for a leaner option. You can also replace Doritos with tortilla chips or even nacho-flavored chips for extra zest. If you prefer a creamier casserole, stir in some cream cheese along with the soup. Adjust the spice level by adding jalapeños or using spicy Ro-Tel tomatoes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole with a side of fresh guacamole or a crisp green salad to balance the richness. It pairs beautifully with Trisha'S Dip for an extra creamy element. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside rice or beans to complement the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through, adding a little extra cheese on top if desired. If freezing, it’s best to do so before baking; thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Derek'S South Of The Border Casserole contains roughly 168 calories, with 7g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2070mg per serving (90% 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 casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Assemble it in the dish, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, simply add a few extra minutes to the cooking time, or let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking.
What can I substitute for the cream of mushroom soup?
If you want a lighter option, you can use cream of chicken soup or a homemade white sauce. For a dairy-free alternative, try a blended cashew cream or coconut milk mixed with nutritional yeast to achieve a similar creaminess.
Can I add vegetables to this casserole?
Absolutely! Chopped bell peppers, corn, or black beans can be great additions. Just make sure to sauté them with the onion before adding them to the meat mixture to ensure they're cooked through and flavorful.
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).