How Much Taco Meat Should You Serve at a Taco Party? Tacos are a crowd-pleasing party food that can accommodate a variety of dietary preferences and restrictions, making them the perfect option for gatherings.
However, if you’re hosting a taco party, one question that may come to mind is: how much taco meat should you serve? In this article, we will explore average protein and taco meat portions, as well as provide a formula for calculating the quantity of taco meat needed based on the number of guests.
Average Protein and Taco Meat Portion
When considering how much taco meat to serve, it’s essential to factor in the average protein and taco meat portion per person. On average, a person consumes about 20-30 grams of protein per meal.
With this in mind, you can estimate that each taco should ideally contain around 3-4 ounces (85-113 grams) of meat.
Calculating Taco Meat Quantity
To determine the quantity of taco meat needed for your party, you can use a simple formula. Start by estimating the number of tacos each guest will consume.
A good rule of thumb is to assume each person will have about three tacos. Multiply this number by the average meat portion per taco (3-4 ounces) to find the total amount of meat needed.
For example, if you have 20 guests and assume each person will consume three tacos, you would need approximately 60 tacos in total. Multiplying this by the average meat portion of 3-4 ounces, you would require 180-240 ounces (5.1-6.8 kilograms) of taco meat.
Adding Ingredients to Stretch Taco Meat
Sometimes, you may want to make your taco meat go further, especially if you have a large number of guests or are on a budget. Fortunately, there are several ingredients you can add to stretch your taco meat without sacrificing flavor.
Here are some options:
- Black Beans: Adding black beans to your taco meat not only increases the volume but also adds additional protein and fiber. Rinse and drain a can of black beans before mixing them with your cooked taco meat.
- Corn: Corn is another fantastic ingredient that can stretch your taco meat. It provides a burst of sweetness and a pleasant crunch. Simply add canned or frozen corn to your taco meat during the cooking process.
- Tomatoes: Tomatoes are not only juicy and refreshing but can also add bulk to your taco meat. Dice fresh tomatoes and mix them into your cooked meat for a burst of color and flavor.
Adjusting Seasonings for Meat Stretching
When stretching your taco meat with additional ingredients, it’s crucial to adjust the seasonings accordingly to maintain the desired flavor balance. Here are some tips for adjusting seasonings:
- Increase the spices: If you find that your taco meat lacks flavor after stretching it with additional ingredients, increase the amount of spices you use. Add more chili powder, cumin, paprika, or other preferred seasonings to enhance the taste.
- Taste and adjust: As you cook the meat and stretch it with other ingredients, taste it along the way. This will allow you to adjust the seasonings as needed, ensuring your taco meat remains delicious.
Final Thoughts
When hosting a taco party, it’s essential to determine how much taco meat to serve to ensure your guests are satisfied. By considering the average protein and taco meat portions, as well as calculating the quantity based on the number of guests, you can plan your taco party with confidence.
And if you want to make your taco meat go further, adding ingredients like black beans, corn, and tomatoes can help stretch your meat while maintaining flavor. So go ahead and plan your taco party, knowing that you have the knowledge to serve the perfect amount of taco meat for your guests to enjoy.
How to Keep Taco Meat Warm
When hosting a taco party, one of the challenges you may face is keeping the taco meat warm throughout the event. It is crucial to maintain the proper serving temperature not only for the enjoyment of your guests but also for food safety reasons.
In this section, we will discuss the importance of keeping taco meat warm and provide various methods to accomplish this.
Importance of Keeping Taco Meat Warm
Keeping taco meat warm is essential to ensure that it remains safe to consume and free from bacteria growth. When food is left at room temperature for an extended period, it becomes an ideal breeding ground for bacteria.
This increases the risk of foodborne illnesses and can cause guests to become sick. To prevent this, the taco meat should be kept at a minimum temperature of 140F (60C) or above.
At this temperature, any bacteria that may be present will be killed, and the meat will remain safe to eat. Additionally, serving taco meat at a warm temperature enhances its flavor and makes it more enjoyable for your guests.
Methods to Keep Taco Meat Warm
Fortunately, there are several effective methods to keep your taco meat warm throughout your party. Here are some options for you to consider:
- Saucepan on Stovetop: One simple and affordable method is to keep the taco meat warm in a saucepan on the stovetop. After cooking the meat, transfer it to a saucepan and set the heat to low or simmer. Stir occasionally to ensure even heat distribution and prevent the meat from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
- Chafing Dishes: Chafing dishes are a popular choice for keeping taco meat warm at parties and events. These dishes consist of a metal frame with a tray or dish that holds the food, and they are heated by a fuel source such as a sterno candle or chafer fuel. Place the cooked taco meat into the chafing dish, cover with a lid or foil, and adjust the flame to maintain a safe serving temperature.
- Electric Warming Trays: Electric warming trays are another convenient option for keeping taco meat warm. These trays have built-in heating elements and adjustable temperature controls. Simply place the cooked meat in heat-resistant containers on the warming tray and set the desired temperature. Stir occasionally to prevent the meat from drying out.
By using one of these methods, you can ensure that your taco meat remains at a safe and enjoyable serving temperature throughout your party.
Basics of a Taco Party
Now that we have covered the topic of keeping taco meat warm let’s take a closer look at the basics of hosting a taco party. To throw a successful taco party, it is important to consider the essential components of tacos, the different meat options, and how to season and marinate the meat for optimal taste.
Essential Components of Tacos
Tacos consist of several key components that come together to create the perfect bite. These components include:
- Meat: The meat is the star of the taco and provides the main source of protein and flavor. Choose a meat option that suits your preferences and those of your guests.
- Toppings: Toppings add texture, freshness, and flavor to tacos. Popular options include shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, grated cheese, chopped onions, sliced jalapeos, and cilantro.
- Shells or Tortillas: The choice of shells or tortillas can vary depending on personal preferences and dietary restrictions. Traditional options include corn tortillas, while flour tortillas provide a softer and more flexible alternative.
Meat Options for Taco Party
When it comes to choosing the meat for your taco party, the options are nearly limitless. Here are some popular choices:
- Ground Beef: Classic and versatile, ground beef is a favorite meat option for tacos. Season it with spices like cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder for a delicious result.
- Chorizo: Chorizo, a spicy Mexican sausage, adds a burst of flavor and heat to tacos. Remove the casing and saut the chorizo before serving.
- Fish: Fish tacos have gained popularity in recent years. Opt for firm white fish such as tilapia or cod, and lightly pan-fry or grill it before flaking it into the tortillas.
- Flank Steak: Flank steak, when marinated and grilled to perfection, offers a juicy and flavorful meat option for tacos. Thinly slice the cooked steak against the grain for maximum tenderness.
- Shredded Chicken: Tender and juicy shredded chicken is a crowd-pleasing option that pairs well with a variety of toppings and sauces. Slow-cook chicken breasts or use a rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Shredded Pork: Slow-cooked and pulled pork provides a hearty and flavorful filling for tacos. Season it with spices like garlic, cumin, and paprika, and let it cook until it easily shreds apart.
- Shrimp: For seafood lovers, shrimp tacos offer a delightful and light option. Quickly saut the shrimp with garlic and chili flakes for a tasty filling.
Seasoning and Marinating Meat
Seasoning and marinating the meat is crucial for infusing it with flavor and enhancing the taste of your tacos. Here are some seasoning and marinating options:
- Homemade Seasonings: Create your own taco seasoning blend by combining spices like chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, oregano, and salt. Adjust the amounts of each spice according to your preferences.
- Citrus Fruit Marinade: Marinating the meat in a citrus fruit-based marinade helps tenderize it and adds a refreshing tang. Use a combination of lime or lemon juice, garlic, salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs. Experiment with different seasonings and marinades to find the flavors that best suit your taste.
Incorporating these elements into your taco party will ensure a memorable and enjoyable experience for all your guests. So go ahead, get creative, and have fun hosting your own taco extravaganza.
Remember to keep that taco meat warm and serve it with all the delicious toppings and shells for an unforgettable fiesta!
Toppings, Side Dishes, Desserts, and Beverages for Taco Party
In addition to the flavorful taco meat, a great taco party is complete with a variety of toppings, side dishes, desserts, and beverages. These additions not only enhance the overall experience but also provide a range of options to accommodate different tastes and preferences.
In this section, we will explore popular toppings, recommended side dishes, delectable dessert options, and beverage recommendations to complement your taco party.
Popular Taco Toppings
Taco toppings are a key component that adds freshness, texture, and flavor to the meat-filled tortillas. Here are some popular options:
- Lettuce: Crisp and refreshing, shredded lettuce is a classic choice for taco toppings. It adds a light and crunchy element that complements the other ingredients.
- Tomatoes: Juicy and vibrant tomatoes are commonly used in taco recipes. Diced tomatoes offer a burst of freshness and acidity that balances the rich flavors of the taco meat.
- Cheese: A generous sprinkle of cheese is a must-have for many taco enthusiasts. Opt for varieties like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or queso fresco, and either shred or crumble it for easy distribution.
- Guacamole: Creamy and tangy guacamole is a popular topping, especially for Mexican-inspired tacos. Mash ripe avocados and combine them with lime juice, diced onions, minced garlic, and chopped cilantro for a delicious homemade version.
- Salsa: Salsa adds a bold kick of flavor to tacos. Whether it’s a classic tomato-based salsa or a fiery salsa verde made with tomatillos and green chilies, having a variety of salsas on hand allows guests to customize their tacos according to their heat preferences.
Recommended Side Dishes
When planning your taco party, it’s essential to consider side dishes that complement the main course. These side dishes provide additional flavors, textures, and variety to the meal.
Here are some recommendations to consider:
- Black Beans: Serve up a bowl of seasoned black beans as a side dish. They are not only packed with fiber and protein but also add a creamy and hearty element to the meal.
- Rice: Offer a side of fluffy white or flavorful seasoned rice as a traditional accompaniment. Rice serves as a neutral base that helps balance the flavors of the tacos.
- Guacamole: In addition to being a topping, guacamole can also work as a delicious side dish. Serve it with tortilla chips or cut-up vegetables for guests to enjoy on the side.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad is a great option to balance the richness of tacos. Combine a variety of fresh fruits such as berries, melons, and citrus segments for a vibrant and healthy side dish.
Dessert Options
No party is complete without a satisfying dessert to end the meal on a sweet note. Here are some mouthwatering dessert options that are sure to please your guests:
- Churros: Warm and crispy churros are a classic Mexican treat that pairs perfectly with tacos. These fried dough pastries, often coated in cinnamon sugar, are best served with a side of chocolate or caramel sauce for dipping.
- Flan: Smooth and creamy, flan is a beloved dessert in many Latin American countries. It consists of a rich caramel sauce topped with a silky custard. Serve individual portions for an elegant and satisfying end to the meal.
- Mexican Corn Cake: This dense and sweet corn cake, also known as pastel de elote, is made with corn kernels, flour, sugar, and butter. It offers a slightly crumbly texture and a deliciously sweet flavor.
- Rice Pudding: Delicate and comforting, rice pudding is a versatile dessert that can be enjoyed warm or chilled. Infused with cinnamon and flavored with vanilla, this creamy concoction is a delightful treat.
Beverage Recommendations
To quench your guests’ thirst during the taco party, it’s important to offer a range of beverage options. Consider these recommendations to keep everyone hydrated and satisfied:
- Non-Alcoholic: Provide a variety of non-alcoholic options such as flavored water, lemonade, and iced tea. You can also create a refreshing agua fresca by blending fresh fruits with water and a touch of sweetness.
- Margaritas: For those who enjoy a cocktail, margaritas are a popular choice to complement tacos. Offer classic margaritas with lime and tequila, or get creative with flavored variations such as mango, strawberry, or watermelon margaritas.
- Sangria: A pitcher of fruity sangria is perfect for a larger gathering. Combine red or white wine with chopped fruits, a splash of orange juice, and a touch of brandy for a refreshing and festive beverage.
Storing and Using Leftover Taco Meat
After the taco party is over, you may find yourself with some leftover taco meat. To ensure its freshness and safety, it’s important to store the meat properly and use it within a reasonable time frame.
Properly Storing Leftover Taco Meat
Place the leftover taco meat in an airtight container or a Ziplock bag to keep it fresh. Ensure that all the excess air is squeezed out of the bag before sealing it. Refrigerate the meat promptly, ideally within two hours of cooking, to prevent bacterial growth.
Length of Time for Leftover Meat
Leftover taco meat can typically be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It’s important to check the meat for any signs of spoilage, such as a foul odor or unusual texture, before consuming it. If in doubt, it’s best to discard the meat to avoid the risk of foodborne illness. To make the most of your leftover taco meat, consider incorporating it into other dishes. It can be used as a filling for quesadillas, burritos, or enchiladas. You can also add it to salads, rice bowls, or scrambled eggs for a tasty twist.
By following these storage guidelines and finding creative ways to use your leftovers, you can minimize waste and continue to enjoy the flavors of the taco party even after the event is over. Incorporating a variety of toppings, side dishes, desserts, and beverages into your taco party will elevate the overall experience and ensure that your guests are catered to their preferences.
So, get ready to tantalize their taste buds with an array of flavors, textures, and options. From classic choices like lettuce, tomatoes, and cheese to more adventurous desserts like churros and flan, your taco party is sure to be a hit. Serve refreshing beverages, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic, to quench thirst and add a festive touch. And remember, even if you have leftover taco meat, you can transform it into new and delicious dishes, ensuring that nothing goes to waste. Enjoy your taco party, and savor every bite!
Additional Tex-Mex Recipes
If you’re a fan of Tex-Mex cuisine, why stop at just tacos? Expand your culinary repertoire with these delicious Tex-Mex recipes that are sure to impress your friends and family.
From salads and side dishes to hearty mains and irresistible appetizers, these recipes will take your Tex-Mex feast to the next level. Let’s dive in and explore the flavors of Tex-Mex beyond the taco!
Tex-Mex Potato Salad Recipe
For a Tex-Mex twist on a classic side dish, try this flavorful Tex-Mex potato salad. Here’s what you’ll need:
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds (900g) baby potatoes, boiled and halved
- 1 cup corn kernels, cooked
- 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, finely chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine the boiled and halved baby potatoes, corn kernels, black beans, red bell pepper, red onion, and cilantro.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, mayonnaise, and chipotle pepper. Season with salt and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the potato mixture and gently toss until well combined.
- Adjust seasoning to taste and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
Homemade Refried Beans Recipe
Refried beans are a staple in Tex-Mex cuisine and can be used as a base for various dishes like breakfast bowls and huevos rancheros. Here’s a simple recipe for homemade refried beans:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked pinto beans (canned or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons oil (such as vegetable or olive oil)
- 1/2 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and cook until softened and fragrant.
- Add the cooked pinto beans to the skillet and mash them with a potato masher or the back of a fork until they reach your desired consistency.
- Stir in the ground cumin and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cook for an additional 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
- If the mixture seems too thick, add a small amount of water or vegetable broth to achieve your desired consistency.
- Serve the homemade refried beans as a side dish or use them as a base for delicious Tex-Mex-inspired dishes.
Tex-Mex Cornbread Casserole Recipe
This Tex-Mex cornbread casserole is a comforting and satisfying dish that combines the flavors of cornbread, chilies, peppers, and sweetcorn. Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 2 eggs
- 1 can (4 ounces) diced green chilies, drained
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup canned or frozen sweetcorn
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375F (190C). Grease a baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, melted butter, and eggs.
- Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring just until combined.
- Fold in the diced green chilies, diced red bell pepper, sweetcorn, and shredded cheddar cheese.
- Pour the batter into the greased baking dish and spread it evenly.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cornbread is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cornbread casserole to cool slightly before serving.
Tex-Mex Chili Recipe
No Tex-Mex feast is complete without a hearty bowl of chili. This Tex-Mex chili recipe features a combination of ground beef and beef stew meat, cooked low and slow to develop rich flavors.
Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients:
- 1 pound (450g) ground beef
- 1 pound (450g) beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (14 ounces) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14 ounces) kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 can (14 ounces) pinto beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 can (4 ounces) diced green chilies
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium heat until cooked through. Remove the cooked beef from the pot and set it aside.
- In the same pot, add the stew meat and brown it on all sides. Remove the browned meat from the pot and set it aside.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot and saut until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
- Return the ground beef and stew meat to the pot.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, pinto beans, diced green chilies, chili powder, ground cumin, and smoked paprika.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Simmer the chili for at least 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
- Adjust the seasonings if necessary and continue to simmer for another 30 minutes to further develop the flavors.
- Serve the Tex-Mex chili with your favorite toppings such as shredded cheese, sliced jalapeos, sour cream, and chopped cilantro.
Ultimate Loaded Nachos Recipe
Loaded nachos are a crowd-pleasing appetizer or party snack. The key to achieving the perfect loaded nachos is to find the right cheese-to-chip ratio and to use homemade tortilla chips for that extra crunch.
Here’s a recipe for ultimate loaded nachos:
Ingredients:
- Homemade tortilla chips (see tips below)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 cup cooked and seasoned ground beef or shredded chicken
- 1 cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup sliced jalapeos
- 1/4 cup diced red onion
- Sour cream, guacamole, and salsa for serving
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375F (190C). Arrange a single layer of homemade tortilla chips on a baking sheet or oven-safe platter.
- Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese evenly over the tortilla chips.
- Distribute the cooked ground beef or shredded chicken, black beans, diced tomatoes, sliced jalapeos, and diced red onion over the cheese and chips.
- Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese over the toppings.
- Bake the loaded nachos in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove the loaded nachos from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.
- Serve the loaded nachos with sour cream, guacamole, and salsa on the side for dipping.
Best Steak Fajitas Recipe
Steak fajitas are a sizzling and flavorful Tex-Mex favorite. This recipe features a marinade with cumin, garlic, and lime juice to tenderize the steak and infuse it with irresistible flavors.
Here’s how to make the best steak fajitas:
Ingredients:
- 1.5 pounds (680g) flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow onion, sliced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 2 limes
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Flour tortillas for serving
- Sliced avocado, chopped cilantro, and sour cream for garnish
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine the vegetable oil, minced garlic, lime juice, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well combined.
- Add the thinly sliced flank steak to the marinade and toss to coat. Let the steak marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or overnight for even more flavor.
- Heat a large skillet or grill pan over high heat. Add the marinated steak, along with any excess marinade, to the hot skillet or grill pan. Cook the steak for 2-3 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Remove the cooked steak from the skillet and set it aside.
- In the same skillet or a separate pan, add the sliced bell peppers and onion. Saut for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
- Warm the flour tortillas in a dry skillet or wrap them in foil and heat them in a preheated oven.
- Assemble the steak fajitas by placing a few slices of cooked steak on a warm tortilla, then topping it with the sauted bell peppers and onion.
- Garnish with sliced avocado, chopped cilantro, and a dollop of sour cream.
- Roll up the tortilla, tucking in the sides, and enjoy the flavorful and juicy steak fajitas.
Cheesy Enchiladas Recipe
Cheesy enchiladas are a comfort food favorite in Tex-Mex cuisine. This recipe features a homemade sauce and plenty of gooey cheese.
Prepare yourself for a deliciously messy and satisfying meal. Here’s how to make cheesy enchiladas:
Ingredients:
- 12 corn tortillas
- 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken or beef
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375F (190C). Grease a baking dish with cooking spray or vegetable oil.
- In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the flour, chili powder, ground cumin, and garlic powder. Stir and cook for about 1 minute to create a roux.
- Slowly whisk in the chicken or vegetable broth until the mixture is smooth. Bring it to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Warm the corn tortillas in a dry skillet or wrap them in foil and heat them in a preheated oven until pliable.
- Dip each tortilla into the warm sauce, coating both sides, then place it on a clean surface.
- In the center of each tortilla, spoon some shredded chicken or beef, shredded cheese, diced onion, and chopped cilantro. Roll up the tortilla tightly and place it seam-side down in the greased baking dish. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.
- Pour any remaining sauce over the enchiladas, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle additional shredded cheese on top of the enchiladas.
- Bake the enchiladas for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove the cheesy enchiladas from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
Tex-Mex Shepherd’s Pie Recipe
Tex-Mex Shepherd’s pie puts a delicious twist on the classic comfort food. It features a chili base and is topped with cheesy mashed potatoes for a satisfying and flavorful dish. Here’s how to make Tex-Mex Shepherd’s pie:
Ingredients:
For the chili base:
- 1 pound (450g) ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14 ounces) kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 can (4 ounces) diced green chilies
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the mashed potato topping:
- 2 pounds (900g) potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375F (190C).
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until cooked through. Remove the cooked beef from the skillet and set it aside.
- In the same skillet, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Saut until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
- Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet and stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, diced green chilies, chili powder, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasonings to taste and simmer the chili base for 10-15 minutes over medium-low heat.
- Meanwhile, cook the peeled and cubed potatoes in a large pot of boiling water until fork-tender. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.
- Add the butter and milk to the pot, and mash the potatoes until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Spread the chili base evenly in the bottom of a baking dish.
- Spoon the mashed potatoes on top of the chili base, spreading them evenly to cover the entire surface.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the mashed potatoes.
- Bake the Tex-Mex Shepherd’s pie in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges are golden brown.
- Remove the Shepherd’s pie from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Easy Quesadillas Recipe
Quesadillas make a quick and versatile meal, especially when using leftover meat from your taco party. Here’s an easy quesadilla recipe that you can customize with your favorite fillings: