Western Chili Casserole
A hearty Western chili casserole layered with seasoned chili, crunchy corn chips, and melted sharp cheese, perfect for a comforting family meal or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet.
- Add 3/4 cup chopped onion and celery; cook until tender. Drain off excess fat.
- Add the chili con carne with beans and pepper; heat through.
- Place a layer of crushed corn chips in an ungreased 1 1/2-quart casserole.
- Spread half of the chili mixture over the chips.
- Add a layer of crushed corn chips.
- Spread the remaining chili mixture.
- Sprinkle with half of the shredded sharp cheese.
- Save 1/2 cup chips and 1/4 cup cheese for topping.
- Sprinkle the center with reserved cheese and onion.
- Cover and bake at 350°F for 10 minutes.
- Border with the remaining chips before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a healthier twist, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. You can also use any type of cheese you prefer, such as Monterey Jack or a spicy pepper jack for added flavor. If you want more vegetables, consider adding bell peppers or corn to the mixture. Make sure to drain the chili well to avoid excess liquid in the casserole.
Serving Suggestions
This Western Chili Casserole pairs beautifully with a side salad or cornbread for a complete meal. Consider serving it with sour cream and fresh cilantro on top for added flavor. It also goes well with a side of Oniony Rice for a hearty combination. Enjoy it as a comforting dinner or a potluck dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions until heated through, or warm in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes. You can add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist while reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Western Chili Casserole contains roughly 1225 calories, with 29g protein, 123g carbohydrates, and 71g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (59% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (43% of the Daily Value), and iron (32% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1744mg per serving (76% 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 casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance. Assemble it as directed but don't bake it until you're ready to serve. Cover it with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove the cover and bake as instructed, adding a few extra minutes if it's cold from the fridge.
What can I use instead of corn chips?
If you want to replace corn chips, consider using tortilla chips or crushed crackers for a similar texture. Alternatively, you can layer in some cooked rice or quinoa for a gluten-free option. This will add heartiness and absorb some of the casserole's flavors.
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
Absolutely! To make a vegetarian version, replace the ground beef with a meat substitute like lentils, black beans, or a store-bought veggie crumbles. Use a vegetarian chili con carne if available. The assembly and baking process remains the same, and you’ll have a delicious meat-free casserole.
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).