El Dorado
El Dorado is a flavorful layered casserole featuring seasoned ground beef, creamy cheese, olives, and chilies, perfect for satisfying family dinners and gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef, chopped onion, and salt in a skillet.
- Add the tomato sauce and black olives to the skillet, then remove from heat.
- In a separate bowl, mix sour cream, cottage cheese, and diced Ortega chilies.
- Layer in a 9 x 13-inch casserole dish: half of the crushed tortilla chips, half of the meat mixture, half of the cottage cheese mixture, and half of the shredded Monterey Jack cheese.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients.
- Bake in a 350°F oven for about 35 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding spices like cumin or chili powder to the ground beef while browning. You can substitute ground turkey for a leaner option or use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. If you prefer a spicier kick, add jalapeños or use pepper jack cheese instead of Monterey Jack. This dish can also be made ahead and frozen for a quick meal later.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty casserole with a side of guacamole or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Dude Dip for an appetizer or snack. For a complete dinner, consider adding rice or beans as side dishes, enhancing the Mexican recipes theme.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions, covering with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of El Dorado contains roughly 630 calories, with 21g protein, 97g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (43% of the Daily Value), calcium (25% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 924mg per serving (40% 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 use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can easily swap Monterey Jack for cheddar, pepper jack, or a blend of your favorites. Just keep in mind that the flavor and melting qualities might change slightly, but it will still be delicious!
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat substitute or even black beans for added protein. This will still provide a satisfying and hearty casserole, perfect for vegetarians or those looking to reduce meat intake.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add more heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or using a spicier variety of cheese, like pepper jack. You could also mix in some hot sauce or cayenne pepper into the meat mixture for an extra kick. Adjust the spice level according to your taste!
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).