Mexican Food
A hearty, cheesy Mexican casserole layered with seasoned beef, tomato sauce, and crunchy tortilla chips, perfect for casual family dinners or gatherings with bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown and drain the hamburger.
- Add tomato sauce, cream of mushroom soup, and taco seasoning to the hamburger and stir to combine.
- Line the bottom of a 9 x 13-inch baking dish with broken tortilla chips.
- Sprinkle a thin layer of cheese over the chips.
- Pour the meat mixture over the cheese layer.
- Cover with another layer of tortilla chips and remaining cheese.
- Bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for approximately 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For enhanced flavor, consider adding diced onions, garlic, or bell peppers while browning the hamburger. You can swap out the cream of mushroom soup for a cream of chicken soup or a dairy-free alternative if needed. Feel free to mix in some black beans or corn for extra texture and nutrition. This dish is reminiscent of a Layered Mexican Dish and is perfect for using up leftover ingredients.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty dish with a side of fresh guacamole, salsa, or sour cream for dipping. It pairs beautifully with Deb'S Taco Salad for a complete meal. You can also add a simple green salad to balance the richness. This dish is great for family gatherings or game day snacks.
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 degrees Fahrenheit until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, adding a splash of water to keep it moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mexican Food contains roughly 1182 calories, with 44g protein, 177g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (88% of the Daily Value), calcium (51% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (42% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1777mg per serving (77% 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 meat mixture and assemble the layers a day in advance. Just cover and refrigerate until ready to bake. When ready, bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What type of cheese works best for this recipe?
Cheddar cheese is a classic choice for its sharp flavor, but you can also use Monterey Jack for a milder taste or a Mexican blend for added complexity. Feel free to mix cheeses for a unique flavor profile!
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the hamburger with a plant-based ground meat alternative or use sautéed mushrooms and beans for a hearty filling. You can also add lentils or quinoa for protein while keeping the flavors vibrant with the taco seasoning.
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).