Queso Ole
Creamy, cheesy queso with seasoned ground beef and spicy tomatoes, perfect for a hearty snack or casual gathering, topped with sour cream and fresh tomatoes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the Velveeta shells and cheese dinner according to package directions and drain.
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet and drain excess fat.
- Add the taco seasoning, Ro-Tel tomatoes, and 3/4 cup water to the cooked beef. Bring to a boil and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Stir the cheese, Ro-Tel tomatoes, and drained macaroni into the cooked pasta, mixing lightly.
- Layer the macaroni mixture and seasoned meat in a 1 1/2-quart casserole dish.
- Bake at 375°F for 15 to 20 minutes.
- Serve topped with sour cream and chopped tomatoes, with tortilla chips on the side.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider stirring in some cream cheese or a splash of milk when mixing the cheese sauce. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef for a lighter option. If you prefer a spicier kick, add jalapeños or use spicy Ro-Tel. This dish also makes a great base for Fajita Nachos if you have leftovers.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty casserole with a side of tortilla chips for dipping, and consider a fresh salad for a refreshing contrast. It pairs beautifully with chopped green onions and sliced olives on top. For an extra touch, serve with a dollop of sour cream and a side of Amy'S Taco Soup (This Makes A Big Pot!) for a complete meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture, heating in 30-second intervals until warmed through. You can also reheat in the oven at 350°F until hot, about 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Queso Ole contains roughly 162 calories, with 4g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2299mg per serving (100% 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 casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What can I use instead of Velveeta?
If you prefer a more natural cheese option, you can substitute Velveeta with a mixture of shredded cheddar and cream cheese. This will provide a similar creamy texture while allowing for a more traditional cheese flavor.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat substitute or skip it entirely and add more vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or corn. This will maintain the dish's heartiness while making it suitable for vegetarians.
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).