El Gondo
El Gondo is a hearty casserole combining seasoned ground beef, rice, cheese, and fresh vegetables, topped with Fritos for a crunchy finish—perfect for casual family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground chuck with spices (salt, pepper, garlic salt), then add canned stewed tomatoes and chili mix. Cook until flavors meld.
- Cook yellow rice according to package instructions.
- Layer the cooked meat mixture and rice in a casserole dish.
- Heat cheddar cheese soup and milk together until smooth.
- Pour the cheese sauce over the layered meat and rice.
- Top with chopped onions, sliced olives, shredded lettuce, stewed tomatoes, grated cheese, and Fritos.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of El Gondo, consider using a combination of spices like cumin or paprika in addition to the Chili-O mix. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the ground chuck with lentils or a meat alternative. For an extra kick, add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the meat mixture.
Serving Suggestions
El Gondo is a hearty dish that can be served with a side of tortilla chips or a fresh salad for a complete meal. For a more filling experience, pair it with Gert Gurganus Sweet Milk Cornbread, which balances the flavors beautifully. It's perfect for potlucks or family gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers of El Gondo can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. You can also reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of El Gondo contains roughly 653 calories, with 15g protein, 92g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (33% of the Daily Value), protein (31% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2604mg per serving (113% 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 El Gondo ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meat mixture and cook the rice a day in advance. Just layer everything in the casserole dish and store it in the refrigerator. Bake it right before serving for a fresh and warm meal.
What can I use instead of yellow rice?
If yellow rice is unavailable, you can substitute it with white rice or a flavored rice mix. For a healthier option, consider using quinoa or cauliflower rice, which will still provide a nice base for the dish.
Can I freeze El Gondo?
Absolutely! El Gondo can be frozen for up to 2 months. Make sure to let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. When you're ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat as mentioned.
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).