Tostado Pie
A hearty layered taco-inspired casserole featuring seasoned ground beef, crispy chips, and melted cheese, perfect for casual gatherings and family dinners with bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef and chopped onion in a skillet.
- Add chili powder, garlic salt, black pepper, tomato sauce, drained tomatoes, and chopped bell pepper to the beef mixture.
- Grease a casserole dish.
- Sprinkle 1/2 cup crushed chips in the dish.
- Add half of the meat mixture over the chips.
- Sprinkle 1/2 cup grated cheese over the meat.
- Add the remaining crushed chips, then the rest of the meat mixture.
- Place whole chips over the top of the meat layer.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30 to 35 minutes.
- Sprinkle cheese over the chips and return to the oven to melt before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or using a spicy chili powder. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you prefer a vegetarian version, try using lentils or black beans in place of the beef. For extra flavor, incorporate a packet of taco seasoning into the meat mixture. This dish is reminiscent of Easy Taco Bake and pairs well with fresh toppings.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Tostado Pie with a side of sour cream, guacamole, or salsa for added flavor. Fresh cilantro or chopped green onions make excellent garnishes. This dish pairs well with a simple salad or corn on the side. For a complete meal, consider serving with Mexican rice or beans for a satisfying combination.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tostado Pie contains roughly 422 calories, with 11g protein, 57g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (59% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (23% of the Daily Value), and protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 987mg per serving (43% 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 Tostado Pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meat mixture and layer the pie in advance. Cover and refrigerate until you're ready to bake. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if you’re cooking it straight from the fridge.
What can I use instead of crushed chips?
If you don't have crushed chips, try using crushed tortilla chips, cornflakes, or even baked tortilla strips for a similar crunch. You can also make your own by baking corn tortillas until crispy.
Is Tostado Pie suitable for freezing?
Yes, Tostado Pie freezes well! Assemble the dish without baking, then cover tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
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).