Layered Chili Casserole
A hearty layered casserole combining seasoned ground beef, beans, chips, and fresh lettuce, perfect for casual gatherings and satisfying comfort food with bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic in a large skillet.
- Cook until the meat is browned.
- Drain excess fat and set aside.
- In a medium-sized bowl, mix the cooked meat, tomato sauce, water, chili powder, and oregano.
- Stir well to combine.
- Place half of the meat mixture in a lightly greased 2-quart casserole dish.
- Top with tortilla chips.
- Add the remaining meat mixture on top of the chips.
- Cover the casserole and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes.
- Uncover and bake for an additional 5 minutes.
- Remove from oven and top with shredded lettuce before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the meat mixture. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you don't have kidney beans, black beans work well too. To enhance flavor, use fresh herbs instead of dried, or try incorporating corn for added sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
This layered chili casserole pairs beautifully with shredded cheese on top or a dollop of sour cream. Serve with a side of Mexican rice or fresh guacamole for a complete meal. It also makes a great filling for taco night, so consider serving it alongside some tortillas or chips for dipping.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes until warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Layered Chili Casserole contains roughly 850 calories, with 51g protein, 118g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (199% of the Daily Value), iron (190% of the Daily Value), and protein (102% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. It also contributes 56g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Simply assemble it, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking as directed.
What can I use instead of tortilla chips?
If you're looking for a healthier alternative, you can use baked tortilla chips or crushed cornflakes. Alternatively, consider using fresh corn tortillas layered in the casserole for a more traditional approach.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking it. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as instructed. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
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).