Nacho Skillet Casserole
A hearty and flavorful skillet casserole featuring seasoned ground beef, beans, corn, and melted cheese layered over crispy tortilla chips. Perfect for casual gatherings or weeknight dinners, this dish combines savory, spicy, and cheesy elements that appeal to all ages and can be easily customized with toppings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef and chopped onion; drain excess fat.
- Stir in sugar, oregano, chili powder, drained kidney beans, tomato sauce, and undrained corn.
- Simmer the mixture for 10 to 20 minutes.
- Lay tortilla chips on top of the beef mixture and sprinkle with shredded cheese.
- Cover the skillet and cook for 2 to 3 minutes or until the cheese has melted.
- Serve immediately, optionally topped with diced tomatoes, lettuce, and sour cream.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. You can substitute black beans for kidney beans or use fresh corn instead of canned. Adjust the spice level by adding jalapeños or hot sauce. If you have leftover cooked vegetables, throw them in for extra nutrition. This dish is versatile and can easily incorporate ingredients from other Mexican recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the nacho skillet casserole hot, garnished with diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, and a dollop of sour cream for freshness. This dish pairs beautifully with a side of Mexican rice or a simple green salad. For a fun twist, serve it with warm tortillas or as a filling for tacos.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture, and cover until heated through. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Nacho Skillet Casserole contains roughly 1269 calories, with 48g protein, 211g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (171% of the Daily Value), iron (122% of the Daily Value), and protein (96% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1228mg per serving (53% 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 casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the beef mixture ahead and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add the tortilla chips and cheese before you cook it. This makes it a great option for meal prep or when hosting friends.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply replace the ground beef with a mix of sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or crumbled tofu. You can also add extra beans and vegetables to enhance the texture and flavor, making it a satisfying meatless meal.
What type of cheese works best for this dish?
Cheddar cheese is a classic choice for nacho dishes, but you can also experiment with Monterey Jack, pepper jack for a spicy kick, or a blend of cheeses for a richer flavor. Just ensure it melts well for the best texture.
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).