Mexican Junk
A cheesy, flavorful Mexican-inspired casserole featuring seasoned ground beef, creamy soups, enchilada sauce, and crunchy Doritos, perfect for a comforting family dinner.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef in a skillet; drain off excess fat.
- Add cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, enchilada sauce, and chopped green chilies to the beef; heat until bubbling.
- Pour the beef mixture over a layer of crushed Doritos chips in a baking dish, enough to cover the bottom.
- Sprinkle grated cheese on top of the beef mixture.
- Bake in a preheated 400°F (200°C) oven for 20 minutes until bubbly and cheese is melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding spices like cumin or chili powder to the beef mixture. You can substitute ground turkey for a leaner option. If you prefer a vegetarian version, swap the beef for black beans or lentils. Using a mix of cheeses, such as Monterey Jack and cheddar, can enhance the dish's creaminess. For crunch, make sure to use fresh Doritos.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty dish with a side of Mexican rice or a fresh green salad for balance. Top with sour cream, guacamole, or fresh cilantro for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with our Perfect Zesty Chicken Tortilla Bake for a complete meal. For a fun twist, serve with extra Doritos for crunch.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out. Heat at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for convenience.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mexican Junk contains roughly 594 calories, with 24g protein, 57g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (48% of the Daily Value), calcium (46% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1782mg 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 beef mixture and layer it with the Doritos and cheese in advance. Cover and refrigerate until ready to bake. Just increase the baking time slightly if baking straight from the fridge.
What can I use instead of cream soups?
If you prefer not to use canned cream soups, you can make a homemade version using a roux with butter, flour, and milk, then season it with chicken or mushroom broth. This adds a fresher taste and allows for better control over ingredients.
Can I add more vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! You can add diced bell peppers, corn, or even spinach to the beef mixture for added nutrients and flavor. Just sauté them with the beef until tender before adding the soups and sauces.
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).