Stackups Grande
Stackups Grande is a hearty layered dish featuring seasoned ground beef, melted Cheez Whiz, and fresh vegetables, all sandwiched between tortillas and baked to perfection. Perfect for casual family dinners or gatherings, its cheesy, savory flavors appeal to all ages and are easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef; drain excess fat.
- Add chopped onion and green pepper; cook until tender.
- Stir in Cheez Whiz and chili powder.
- Layer tortillas and meat mixture in two stacks in a 13 1/2 x 8 3/4-inch baking dish.
- Bake at 350°F for 20 minutes.
- Top with tomato slices; cut into wedges to serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider seasoning your ground beef with garlic powder or cumin. You can substitute the Cheez Whiz with a homemade cheese sauce or shredded cheese for a different texture. If you're looking for a lighter option, use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. To make it vegetarian-friendly, replace the meat with black beans or lentils. This recipe is reminiscent of other popular Mexican recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Stackups Grande with a side of fresh guacamole, salsa, or sour cream for dipping. A crisp green salad or a side of Mexican rice complements the dish beautifully. For a fun twist, add a sprinkle of chopped cilantro or jalapeños on top before serving. This dish also pairs well with beverages like a chilled cerveza or a fruity margarita.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the Stackups Grande in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out. Heat at 300°F for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, checking for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Stackups Grande contains roughly 247 calories, with 7g protein, 39g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (143% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (28% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 572mg per serving (25% 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 Stackups Grande ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meat mixture and layer the tortillas in advance. Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.
What can I use instead of flour tortillas?
If you need a gluten-free option, try using corn tortillas or gluten-free wraps. For a low-carb alternative, consider using large lettuce leaves or cauliflower tortillas. These substitutions will give you a different texture but still work well with the filling.
Can I freeze Stackups Grande?
Absolutely! To freeze, prepare the dish as instructed, but do not bake it. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake according to the original instructions, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
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).