Hot Tomato Hamburger
Hot Tomato Hamburger is a hearty, cheesy casserole featuring seasoned ground beef layered with crispy chips, tangy tomatoes with green chilies, and melted Cheddar cheese. Perfect for casual gatherings or family dinners, it offers bold flavors and satisfying textures in each bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Layer tortilla chips in the bottom of a 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Mix browned and drained hamburger with Ro-Tel tomatoes and cream of chicken soup.
- Spread the hamburger mixture over the chips.
- Sprinkle shredded Cheddar cheese over the hamburger mixture.
- Add another layer of tortilla chips and top with more shredded Cheddar cheese.
- Bake at 350°F for 20 to 30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider using hot Ro-Tel tomatoes. You can also substitute ground turkey or chicken for the hamburger if you prefer a leaner option. For an extra layer of flavor, add some taco seasoning to the meat mixture. If you like, crushed tortilla chips can be used instead of whole ones for a different texture.
Serving Suggestions
This Hot Tomato Hamburger dish pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or some guacamole. Consider serving it with sour cream or salsa for dipping. It's a great option for gatherings, and if you have any leftovers, they make for a delicious lunch the next day. Browse more American recipes for more meal ideas.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven-safe dish and bake at 350°F until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, but the oven method helps maintain the crispiness of the tortilla chips.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hot Tomato Hamburger contains roughly 638 calories, with 24g protein, 61g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (49% of the Daily Value), calcium (45% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1314mg per serving (57% 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 recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the dish a day in advance and refrigerate it. Just bake it when you're ready to serve. If refrigerated, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time. This makes it a convenient option for busy days or potlucks.
What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup?
If you don’t have cream of chicken soup, you can use a homemade version or substitute it with cream of mushroom soup for a different flavor. Alternatively, a mixture of sour cream and a bit of chicken broth can mimic the creaminess needed in this recipe.
Can this dish be made vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can replace the hamburger with a plant-based meat substitute or even sautéed vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini. For added protein, consider using black beans or lentils. This way, you still get a hearty meal while keeping it vegetarian.
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).