South Of The Border Stack Up
A flavorful layered casserole combining seasoned ground beef, melted cheeses, and tortillas, offering a hearty, cheesy, and slightly spicy dish perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef; drain off fat.
- Add chopped onion, green pepper, chili seasoning, and tomato sauce to the beef.
- Simmer the mixture for 10 minutes.
- In a 9 x 13-inch baking dish, layer two tortillas, meat sauce, and cheese.
- Repeat the layers: tortillas, meat sauce, and cheese.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F for 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra kick, consider adding jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the meat mixture. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you prefer a vegetarian version, black beans or lentils work well in place of meat. Using corn tortillas instead of flour can also add a different texture and flavor to the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty stack-up with a side of Mexican rice or a fresh green salad to balance the richness. A dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro on top can enhance the flavors. For a fun twist, pair it with the Prize Winning Burrito Bake to create a Mexican-inspired feast that guests will love.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, cover the dish with foil and warm it in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating, but the oven helps retain the dish's texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of South Of The Border Stack Up contains roughly 755 calories, with 48g protein, 67g carbohydrates, and 32g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (95% of the Daily Value), calcium (51% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (40% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2516mg per serving (109% 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 layers ahead of time and assemble the dish. Cover it tightly with foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add about 10 extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it heats through properly.
What can I use instead of tomato sauce?
If you don't have tomato sauce, you can substitute it with crushed tomatoes or diced tomatoes for a chunkier texture. Adding a bit of tomato paste can also enhance the flavor if you're looking for a richer taste.
Is there a way to make this dish spicier?
Absolutely! You can add more chili seasoning or include diced fresh chiles to the beef mixture. For additional heat, top with sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce just before serving.
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).