La Pasada
A hearty layered casserole with seasoned ground beef, melted American cheese, and flavorful tomatoes, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef with chopped onion.
- Add Ro-Tel tomatoes and cream of mushroom soup to the beef mixture and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Layer tortillas, meat mixture, and grated American cheese in a baking dish.
- Repeat layering until ingredients are used, ending with a layer of cheese on top.
- Bake at 350°F until bubbly and cheese is melted and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option. You can also substitute the cream of mushroom soup with a homemade white sauce or a different cream soup for varied flavors. To add a kick, include jalapeños or spices like cumin. If you want to make it vegetarian, use beans and vegetables instead of meat. This dish is a great way to use up leftovers, such as shredded chicken or other meats.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish hot from the oven, garnished with fresh cilantro or sliced green onions for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with a side of Mexican Corn Bread And Beef or a simple green salad. For a complete meal, consider offering sides like guacamole, sour cream, or a fresh salsa. This dish is perfect for gatherings and can easily be doubled for larger groups.
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 cover with foil, warming at 350°F until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for a quick meal, but be sure to cover to avoid drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of La Pasada contains roughly 508 calories, with 23g protein, 46g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (45% of the Daily Value) and iron (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 622mg per serving (27% 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 assemble the layers in advance and refrigerate it overnight. Just make sure to cover it tightly with foil. When you're ready to bake, you may need to add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time, as it will be chilled.
What can I substitute for American cheese?
If you prefer a different cheese, feel free to use Monterey Jack, cheddar, or a blend of Mexican cheeses. Each will give a unique flavor and melt beautifully over the layers. Just make sure the cheese you choose melts well for that perfect bubbly topping.
Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour?
Absolutely! Corn tortillas can be used for a gluten-free option, but they may be a bit more delicate. To prevent them from breaking, consider warming them slightly before layering. This will help them stay pliable and add a wonderful corn flavor to the dish.
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).