Sky-High Stack-Ups
Sky-High Stack-Ups are flavorful Mexican lasagna-style casseroles with seasoned beef, melted cheese, and crunchy tortillas, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings with bold, comforting flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook and drain the ground beef and chopped onion in a fry pan.
- Stir in tomato sauce, chopped green chilies, chili powder, and salt; simmer for 10 minutes.
- In a 13 x 9-inch baking dish, place a layer of 6 tortillas.
- Spread half of the meat mixture over the tortillas.
- Sprinkle with 1 cup of shredded Jack cheese.
- Add another layer of 6 tortillas on top.
- Spread the remaining meat mixture over the tortillas.
- Top with the remaining cheese.
- Cover tightly with foil.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes.
- Cut into squares to serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. You can also use whole wheat tortillas for added fiber. If you prefer, swap out the Jack cheese for a spicy cheese blend to give it an extra kick. This dish can be customized with additional toppings like sour cream or guacamole, making it versatile for any occasion. Consider browsing more Mexican recipes for more ideas.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Sky-High Stack-Ups with a side of Mexican rice or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. They pair beautifully with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro. For a festive touch, consider serving with tortilla chips and salsa. This hearty dish is great for gatherings or a cozy family dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or bake in the oven at 350°F until heated through. Ensure it's covered to maintain moisture. This dish also freezes well for up to 2 months; just thaw before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sky-High Stack-Ups contains roughly 637 calories, with 18g protein, 126g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (75% of the Daily Value), protein (36% of the Daily Value), and iron (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2307mg 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 recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before putting it in the oven. This makes it convenient for meal prep or entertaining.
What can I substitute for tomato sauce?
If you don’t have tomato sauce on hand, you can use crushed tomatoes or diced tomatoes blended until smooth. Alternatively, a can of enchilada sauce can add a unique flavor twist. Adjust the seasoning accordingly to maintain the desired taste profile.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! Consider adding bell peppers, zucchini, or corn to the meat mixture for extra flavor and nutrition. You can sauté the vegetables along with the onions before adding the beef. This will enhance the dish's texture and make it even more satisfying.
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).