Hot Monterrey Bake

Hot Monterrey Bake Recipe - Beef and Vegetable Casserole

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Hot Monterrey Bake is a delicious and hearty casserole dish that combines ground beef, rice, vegetables, and a crunchy corn chip topping. This dish is perfect for a family dinner or potluck gathering.

History

The Hot Monterrey Bake recipe has been a favorite in many households for years. It is a comforting and satisfying dish that is easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) lean ground beef
1 clove garlic, minced
1 cup mayonnaise
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp salt
0.25 tsp hot pepper sauce
3 cups cooked rice
3 medium tomatoes, cut into eighths
2 cups sliced celery
1 cup chopped green bell peppers
1 cup chopped onion
1 cup crushed corn chips

How to prepare

Cook the meat and garlic in a lightly greased skillet until the meat is no longer pink, stirring to crumble. Pour off any excess fat.
Blend together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, salt, and pepper sauce.
Combine the meat mixture with rice, tomatoes, celery, peppers, and onion.
Transfer the mixture into a greased 2 qt (1.89 liter) casserole dish and top with corn chips.
Bake at 375°F (191°C) for 25 to 30 minutes.

Variations

You can add different vegetables such as zucchini, mushrooms, or carrots to this dish for added flavor and nutrition.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to cook the ground beef thoroughly to ensure it is no longer pink.

- Feel free to customize the vegetables in this dish to suit your preferences.

- You can add extra spices or herbs to the meat mixture for added flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Hot Monterrey Bake can be served with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Baking is the main cooking technique used for this recipe, which helps to meld the flavors together and create a crispy topping.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version of this dish. You can also use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a healthier option.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the meat mixture ahead of time and assemble the casserole just before baking. This dish also reheats well, making it a great option for meal prep.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Hot Monterrey Bake in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation. Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of cheese before serving.

Pairing Recommendations

Hot Monterrey Bake pairs well with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or a side of roasted vegetables.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Hot Monterrey Bake contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Hot Monterrey Bake contains approximately 35 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Hot Monterrey Bake contains approximately 20 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Hot Monterrey Bake contains approximately 15 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Hot Monterrey Bake is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (mayonnaise) and corn chips, which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Hot Monterrey Bake is a balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Hot Monterrey Bake is a comforting and flavorful casserole dish that is perfect for a family dinner or gathering. With a mix of protein, carbohydrates, and vegetables, this dish is a well-rounded meal option. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is one that will always stay with me. It was a sunny day in Monterrey, Mexico, and I was visiting my dear friend Maria. We were sitting in her cozy kitchen, sipping on some freshly brewed coffee, when she suddenly jumped up and exclaimed, "I have the perfect recipe for you to try!"

Maria rummaged through her old recipe box and pulled out a weathered piece of paper. She handed it to me with a twinkle in her eye, saying, "This is a family favorite - Hot Monterrey Bake. It's a delicious combination of spicy chorizo, gooey cheese, and crispy tortillas. You'll love it!"

I eagerly took the recipe and studied it carefully. The instructions were simple, but the flavors sounded exotic and intriguing. Maria explained that the recipe had been passed down through generations in her family, and it was a staple at all their gatherings and celebrations.

I couldn't wait to try it out for myself. Maria and I spent the afternoon preparing the dish together, chopping onions, browning the chorizo, and layering the ingredients in a baking dish. The aromas that wafted through the kitchen were intoxicating - a tantalizing mix of spices and cheese that made my mouth water.

As we sat down to enjoy our creation, Maria watched me anxiously, waiting for my reaction. I took my first bite and was instantly transported to a world of bold flavors and comforting warmth. The dish was a masterpiece - the perfect balance of heat, creaminess, and crunch. I couldn't believe I had never tasted anything like it before.

From that day on, Hot Monterrey Bake became a regular feature on my family's dinner table. I shared the recipe with my own children, who in turn passed it on to their friends and loved ones. It became a symbol of friendship, tradition, and the joy of discovery.

Over the years, I have made some tweaks and adaptations to the original recipe, adding my own personal touch here and there. I've experimented with different cheeses, spices, and toppings, always striving to perfect the dish and make it my own.

But no matter how many times I make Hot Monterrey Bake, it always brings me back to that sunny day in Maria's kitchen, where I first fell in love with its irresistible combination of flavors. It reminds me of the power of food to connect us, to create memories, and to bring joy to those we love.

So, if you ever find yourself craving a taste of Mexico, I urge you to give Hot Monterrey Bake a try. Let its rich and spicy flavors transport you to a world of warmth and happiness, just as it did for me all those years ago. Bon appétit!