El Paso Venison
A hearty, flavorful casserole combining venison, beans, green chiles, and melted cheese, perfect for meat lovers seeking a spicy, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground venison and chopped onion in a skillet; set aside.
- Spread refried beans evenly in the bottom of an 8x8-inch baking dish.
- Layer the cooked venison and onions over the beans.
- Add chopped green chiles on top of the venison layer.
- Pour hot taco sauce over the chiles.
- Sprinkle crushed red peppers if desired.
- Spread shredded Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the top.
- Top with sliced black olives.
- Bake at 350°F for 20 minutes until heated through and cheese is melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding spices like cumin or garlic powder to the venison while browning. If you prefer a milder dish, use mild taco sauce instead of hot. You can substitute ground beef or turkey if venison is unavailable. For added texture, mix in some corn or black beans. This dish is similar to Venison Enchiladas, offering a delicious twist on classic flavors.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad or some tortilla chips for added crunch. For a complete meal, serve with Mexican rice or a dollop of sour cream on the side. You could also try it alongside Taco Pie(Low-Fat) for a fun meal combo that your guests will love.
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 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions on medium power, checking frequently to avoid overheating the cheese.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of El Paso Venison contains roughly 177 calories, with 12g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 539mg per serving (23% 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 layers in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake it the next day, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it's coming straight from the fridge. This makes it perfect for meal prep or entertaining guests.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! You can freeze the assembled dish before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bake as directed. This is a great way to have a quick meal on hand.
What can I use instead of Monterey Jack cheese?
You can substitute with Cheddar or Pepper Jack cheese for a different flavor profile. If you're looking for a lower fat option, try using reduced-fat cheese. The cheese is a key element, so choose one that melts well for the best results.
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).