Taco El Grande
A hearty layered taco casserole with savory ground beef, flavorful tomatoes, cheesy topping, and rice, perfect for quick family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook ground chuck and drain.
- Add chili seasoning and canned tomatoes to the meat.
- Cook rice according to package instructions.
- Layer half of the meat mixture in the bottom of a 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Add a layer of cooked rice on top of the meat.
- Add the remaining meat mixture over the rice.
- Heat Cheddar cheese or Nacho cheese soup with milk until smooth.
- Pour the cheese mixture over the layered ingredients.
- Sprinkle with Cheddar cheese.
- Bake at 350°F for 15 minutes.
- Serve with Fritos, chopped tomatoes, onions, lettuce, and sour cream.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the meat mixture. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you don't have yellow rice, any flavored rice will work. For a vegetarian version, try using black beans and extra vegetables instead of meat. This Taco El Grande can also be made ahead and frozen for later enjoyment.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is perfect for a casual gathering and pairs beautifully with Fritos and fresh toppings like chopped tomatoes, onions, lettuce, and sour cream. For a complete meal, serve alongside a fresh salad or some homemade guacamole. You can also browse more Mexican recipes for additional ideas to complement your Taco El Grande.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Taco El Grande can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply place in the microwave or oven until heated through. If reheating in the oven, cover with foil to prevent drying out. For best results, enjoy within a few days to maintain flavor and texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Taco El Grande contains roughly 867 calories, with 48g protein, 43g carbohydrates, and 56g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (96% of the Daily Value), calcium (82% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (56% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2061mg per serving (90% 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 Taco El Grande ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Taco El Grande in advance by assembling the layers and refrigerating it before baking. Just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if you bake it straight from the fridge. This makes it a great option for meal prep or entertaining.
What can I use instead of Cheddar cheese soup?
If you don't have Cheddar cheese soup, you can substitute it with a homemade cheese sauce made from melting Velveeta cheese with milk. Alternatively, you could use a creamy ranch dressing for a different flavor profile.
Is Taco El Grande suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! Taco El Grande can be frozen before or after baking. If freezing before, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil to avoid freezer burn. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed, adding extra time 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).