Tortilla Beef Bake
A hearty baked casserole combining seasoned ground beef, crunchy tortilla chips, melted cheddar, and spicy salsa for a flavorful, crowd-pleasing meal perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook ground beef and chopped green chiles in a skillet until browned; drain excess fat.
- Stir in the can of cream of chicken soup into the cooked beef mixture.
- In a greased 2 1/2-quart baking dish, sprinkle 1 1/2 cups of crushed tortilla chips.
- Layer the beef mixture over the chips.
- Pour salsa over the beef layer.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for 25 to 30 minutes or until bubbly.
- Sprinkle the remaining tortilla chips over the casserole.
- Bake for an additional 5 minutes or until chips are browned.
- Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider sautéing some onions with the ground beef. If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute ground turkey for the beef. You could also use a variety of cheese, like pepper jack, for a bit of spice. If you have leftover tortilla chips, they can be crushed and used to top salads or other Mexican recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This Tortilla Beef Bake pairs wonderfully with a side of Mexican rice or a fresh green salad. For extra flavor, serve with sour cream and guacamole on the side. For a complete meal, you might enjoy it alongside Chicken Tostada or a light corn salad. It's a perfect dish for gatherings or family dinners.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, ensuring the cheese is melted and the dish is heated evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tortilla Beef Bake contains roughly 881 calories, with 29g protein, 87g carbohydrates, and 44g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (59% of the Daily Value), calcium (55% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2183mg per serving (95% 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 Tortilla Beef Bake ahead of time. Assemble the dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. When you're ready to bake, simply add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through.
What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?
If you prefer not to use cream of chicken soup, you can substitute it with a homemade cream sauce or a can of cream of mushroom soup. Alternatively, a dairy-free option like coconut cream can work, though it may alter the flavor slightly.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! You can enhance the nutrition and flavor by adding vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or even spinach. Sauté them with the beef, or layer them in the casserole for additional texture and taste.
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).