Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 lb. ground beef
- 1 tbsp. olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp. chili powder
- 1 tsp. ground cumin
- 1 tsp. paprika
- 1 tsp. salt
- 1/2 tsp. black pepper
- 1 can (14 oz.) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 can (4 oz.) diced green chilies, drained
- 1 bag (10 oz.) tortilla chips
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Special equipment needed:
- Large skillet
- Oven-safe baking dish
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks.
5. Add the chili powder, ground cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper to the skillet and stir to combine.
6. Add the drained diced tomatoes and diced green chilies to the skillet and stir to combine.
7. Reduce the heat to low and simmer the beef mixture for 10 minutes.
8. Spread the tortilla chips in an even layer in an oven-safe baking dish.
9. Spoon the beef mixture over the tortilla chips.
10. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the beef mixture.
11. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
12. Remove from the oven and sprinkle the chopped cilantro over the top.
13. Serve immediately.
- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 25 minutes
Temperature:
- Oven temperature: 375°F
Serving size:
- This recipe serves 6-8 people.
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 485
- Fat: 31g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Protein: 28g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 3g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ground beef can be substituted with ground turkey or ground chicken.
- Cheddar cheese can be substituted with Monterey Jack cheese or a Mexican blend of cheeses.
- Tortilla chips can be substituted with corn chips or pita chips.
Variations:
- Add a can of drained and rinsed black beans to the beef mixture for added protein and fiber.
- Top the finished dish with sliced jalapeños or hot sauce for added heat.
- Use a different type of cheese, such as pepper jack or queso fresco, for a different flavor profile.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to drain the diced tomatoes and diced green chilies before adding them to the beef mixture to prevent the dish from becoming too watery.
- Use a high-quality brand of tortilla chips for the best flavor and texture.
- Serve with a dollop of sour cream and a side of guacamole for added flavor.
Storage instructions:
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- To reheat, preheat the oven to 350°F and bake the dish for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the dish in a large, shallow bowl for a rustic presentation.
- Garnish with additional chopped cilantro or sliced jalapeños for added color and flavor.
Garnishes:
- Chopped cilantro
- Sliced jalapeños
- Sour cream
- Guacamole
Pairings:
- Serve with a side of Spanish rice or refried beans for a complete meal.
- Pair with a cold beer or a margarita for a refreshing beverage.
Suggested side dishes:
- Spanish rice
- Refried beans
- Grilled vegetables
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the dish becomes too watery, try draining the beef mixture before spooning it over the tortilla chips.
- If the cheese doesn't melt evenly, try covering the dish with foil during the baking process to trap in the heat.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the ground beef to an internal temperature of 160°F to ensure it is safe to eat.
- Store any leftovers in the refrigerator within 2 hours of cooking to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria.
Food history:
- Totopos con carne molida y queso is a popular Mexican dish that combines seasoned ground beef with tortilla chips and melted cheese. It is often served as an appetizer or a main course.
Flavor profiles:
- This dish is savory and slightly spicy, with a crispy texture from the tortilla chips and a creamy texture from the melted cheese.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve this dish as an appetizer at a party or as a main course for a casual dinner with friends and family.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
Course Type: N/A
Dietary: N/A
Ingredient: N/A
Meal type: N/A
Occassion: N/A
Region: Mexican