Ingredients and Weight:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 can (10 oz) refried beans
- 1 package (8 oz) taco seasoning mix
- 1 pound Mexico-style cheese or shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups chopped fresh lettuce or iceberg salad mix
- 2 cups of pre-shredded lettuce (optional)
- 1 can (8 oz) olives, sliced (optional)
- 1 large bag (8 oz) tortilla chips
Preparation Time:
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Difficulty Level:
Level 3 (Moderate difficulty)
Preparation Method Steps:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef until browned and crumbled. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in the refried beans and taco seasoning mix. Heat through.
- In a large baking dish, spread the beef mixture evenly. Top with the cheese, lettuce, and olives (if using).
- Break the tortilla chips over the top of the casserole.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chips are golden and the cheese is melted.
- Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Nutritional Information: (per serving, assuming 8 servings total)
Calories: approximately 450 calories per serving (depending on ingredients used)
Fat: 28g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Protein: 24g
(Note: Nutritional information may vary based on specific ingredients used.)
Dish Characteristics:
- A classic American dish with a Mexican twist, perfect for a family meal or a casual gathering.
- Easy to customize with different toppings and flavors.
- A hearty and satisfying dish that's both tasty and filling.
User Comments:
- "This is a great dish for a busy weeknight. It's easy to make and everyone loves it!" - John Smith
- "The combination of flavors is so delicious! This casserole is a hit at our gatherings." - Sarah Johnson
- "I love how customizable this dish is. You can add or subtract ingredients to suit your taste." - Michael Thompson
Special Precautions and Tips:
- Be sure to use fresh ingredients for best results.
- If using fresh lettuce, it may be easier to shred it using a salad spinner or sharp knife.
- Adjust the amount of taco seasoning mix according to your preference for spice level.
- For a vegetarian option, omit the ground beef and increase the amount of refried beans.
