Meat Filling
A flavorful meat filling with savory ground beef, chopped green chilies, and tomatoes, perfect for tacos, stuffed peppers, or other hearty dishes. Suits quick weeknight meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef and chopped onion in hot oil.
- Add canned green chilies, canned tomatoes, salt, and oregano.
- Simmer for 30 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, try browning the beef with additional spices like cumin or smoked paprika. If you prefer a milder dish, substitute jalapeños for the green chilies. You can also replace ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. For a vegetarian twist, use lentils or mushrooms instead. This filling works well in Taco Muffins or as a topping for nachos.
Serving Suggestions
This savory meat filling is perfect for stuffing into tacos, burritos, or enchiladas. Serve it alongside a fresh salad or over rice for a complete meal. It also pairs beautifully with Beef King Ranch Casserole for a family-style dinner. Consider garnishing with fresh cilantro, diced avocado, or a squeeze of lime for added freshness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover meat filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply transfer it to a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring between, to avoid overheating and drying out the mixture. For longer storage, consider freezing it for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meat Filling contains roughly 454 calories, with 3g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 39g fat. It is a good source of iron (13% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (11% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 519mg per serving (23% of the Daily Value).
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this meat filling ahead of time?
Absolutely! This filling can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Just reheat it gently before using. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld together for a tastier result.
What can I use instead of canned tomatoes?
If you don't have canned tomatoes on hand, you can use fresh tomatoes or tomato sauce. Just ensure to adjust the quantity according to your preference. For a bit of sweetness, roasted red peppers can also be an interesting substitute.
Is this recipe spicy?
The spice level can vary based on the type of green chilies you use. For a milder filling, opt for mild chilies or adjust the amount to your taste. If you enjoy heat, consider adding jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.
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).