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chili stack copycat recipe

Chili Stack Recipe

When it comes to enjoying chili stack, think of your favorite sidekick! This dish pairs wonderfully with cornbread or tortilla chips, adding a delightful crunch.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 634 kcal

Equipment

  • Oven

Ingredients
  

  • 6 soft corn tortillas
  • 1 lb lean ground beef or ground turkey
  • 8 oz sharp cheddar cheese shredded
  • ½ cup finely chopped onion
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder or ground chili
  • 1 can 14.5 oz petite diced tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 2 tablespoons freshly chopped cilantro
  • 4 oz pure tomato sauce
  • ½ teaspoon dried Mexican oregano
  • 1 tablespoon sliced black olives
  • ½ teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 small jalapeño finely diced

Instructions
 

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

  • Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). A hot oven is crucial for ensuring your dish bubbles and melds beautifully as it bakes.

Step 2: Brown the Meat

  • In a large skillet over medium heat, add the lean ground beef or turkey. Stir it occasionally until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to break up any clumps with your spatula for an even cook.

Step 3: Add Vegetables and Spices

  • Once the meat is cooked, toss in the finely chopped onion, chili powder, cumin, and salt. Stir for another 2-3 minutes until the onions become translucent.
  • Now, add the petite diced tomatoes and tomato sauce, mixing thoroughly. Let this wonderful blend simmer on low for about 5 minutes.

Step 4: Prepare the Tortillas

  • While the meat simmers, take your soft corn tortillas and warm them slightly in a separate skillet or microwave. This step ensures they become pliable and easier to layer without tearing.

Step 5: Build Your Chili Stack

  • In a baking dish, start layering! First, place two corn tortillas at the bottom. Next, spoon a layer of the meat mixture on top, followed by a generous sprinkle of shredded cheese. Repeat this layering process until all ingredients are used, ending with a layer of cheese on top.

Step 6: Bake

  • Cover your baking dish with foil and pop it into the preheated oven. Bake for around 25 minutes. Remove the foil for the last 10 minutes to get that beautiful cheese crust browned and bubbly.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

  • Once out of the oven, let it rest for about 5 minutes. Sprinkle chopped cilantro and sliced black olives on top before serving. Dive into your chili stack!

Notes

  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs can elevate the dish significantly. Consider using organic, fresh produce for bolder flavors.
  • Customize Your Spice Level: Not everyone loves heat! Adjust the amount of jalapeño or chili powder according to your preference. You can even omit the peppers entirely for a milder dish.
  • Add Beans for Extra Protein: Canned black beans or pinto beans can add more texture and protein to your dish. Just rinse them well before adding to the mixture.
  • Experiment with Cheese: Feel free to mix cheeses. Adding Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack can give your stack additional flavor profiles.
  • Make Ahead and Freeze: This dish freezes exceptionally well. You can assemble it in advance and freeze it, making weeknight dinners a breeze!

Nutrition

Serving: 625gCalories: 634kcalCarbohydrates: 63gProtein: 47gFat: 22.4gSaturated Fat: 10.6gTrans Fat: 0.6gCholesterol: 133mgSodium: 2116mgFiber: 8gSugar: 9g
Keyword Chili Stack Recipe
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