Upside-down Tacos

Upside-Down Tacos Recipe - Traditional Mexican Dish with Beef and Chili Beans

Region / culture: Mexico | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 8 hours | Servings: 10-12

Introduction

Upside-down Tacos are a delicious and hearty Mexican-inspired dish that is perfect for feeding a crowd. This recipe is packed with flavor and is sure to be a hit at your next gathering.

History

The origins of Upside-down Tacos are a bit unclear, but it is believed to have been inspired by traditional taco ingredients being served in a unique and fun way. This recipe puts a twist on the classic taco by layering all the ingredients in a roasting pan and baking them to perfection.

Ingredients

6 lb (2.72 kg) ground beef
4 large onions, chopped
6 cans of chili beans (15.5 oz (439 g) each)
6 cans of enchilada hot sauce (10 oz (283 g) each)
salt to taste
5 heads of iceberg lettuce, coarsely chopped
1 bottle of italian salad dressing (8 oz (227 g))
6 to 7 bunches of green onions, chopped
10 to 12 fresh tomatoes, chopped
2 lb (907 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
3 packages of corn chips (7 oz (198 g) each), coarsely crumbled

How to prepare

Select a covered roasting pan with a tight-fitting cover.
Place the meat in the roaster and cook, stirring over medium heat, until it loses its redness.
Add onions and cook until the onions become transparent.
Add beans and enchilada sauce, rinsing each can with a little water and adding the water to the pan.
Bring the mixture to a boil.
Add salt, starting with 2 tbsp, then taste and add a bit more if needed.
Cover the pan and cook in a 225°F (107°C) oven for at least 8 hours. Overnight is preferable.
To assemble your Mexican buffet, place lettuce in a large salad bowl and toss with dressing to coat each bite.
Place onions, tomatoes, cheese, and corn chips in separate bowls.
Guests can serve themselves, starting with a plate full of lettuce, then adding spoonfuls of onions, tomatoes, cheese, and a generous ladle of hot chili topped with corn chips.
If possible, it is recommended to cook the chili a day or 2 ahead, then cool and refrigerate.
When chilled, the fat may be lifted off the top, then reheat before serving.

Variations

Add diced jalapenos for an extra kick of heat.
Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
Top with sliced black olives for added flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the ground beef until it loses its redness to ensure it is fully cooked.

- Adding a bit of water to rinse out the cans of beans and enchilada sauce helps to get every last bit of flavor.

- Letting the chili cook low and slow in the oven for at least 8 hours allows the flavors to meld together and develop a rich and delicious taste.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Upside-down Tacos with a side of guacamole, sour cream, and salsa for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to cook the ground beef until it loses its redness to ensure it is fully cooked.

- Layering the ingredients in the roasting pan allows them to cook together and develop a rich flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use pinto beans or black beans instead of chili beans.

- Use a different type of cheese, such as Monterey Jack or pepper jack, for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

This recipe can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. Simply cool the chili, refrigerate, and reheat before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Upside-down Tacos in individual bowls or on a large platter for a fun and festive presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Upside-down Tacos with a cold beer or a refreshing margarita for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

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

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Upside-down Tacos contains approximately 500 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Upside-down Tacos contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Upside-down Tacos contains approximately 25 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Upside-down Tacos contains approximately 30 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Upside-down Tacos are a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cheese) and gluten (corn chips).

Summary

Upside-down Tacos are a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, along with essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Upside-down Tacos are a fun and flavorful twist on traditional tacos that are sure to be a hit with your family and friends. This recipe is easy to make and perfect for feeding a crowd. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I distinctly remember the first time I saw this recipe for Upside-down Tacos. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Maria in her cozy kitchen. Maria was a wonderful cook, always experimenting with new flavors and techniques. As we chatted and sipped on glasses of refreshing hibiscus tea, she suddenly jumped up and exclaimed, "I have the perfect recipe to share with you today!"

Maria rummaged through her collection of handwritten recipe cards and pulled out a faded piece of paper with the words "Upside-down Tacos" scrawled across the top. Intrigued, I leaned in closer as she began to explain the origins of the dish.

She told me that she had learned the recipe from her grandmother, who had picked it up during her travels through Mexico many years ago. The dish was a unique twist on traditional tacos, featuring a savory meat filling topped with a layer of gooey melted cheese and served over a bed of crispy tortilla chips. Maria explained that the secret to the recipe was in the layering – the meat and cheese had to be perfectly balanced to create the ultimate flavor experience.

I watched intently as Maria demonstrated each step of the recipe, from browning the ground beef with fragrant spices to assembling the layers in a cast iron skillet. The aromas wafting from the kitchen were absolutely mouthwatering, and I couldn't wait to taste the finished dish.

After a short time in the oven, Maria pulled the skillet out and placed it on the table in front of me. The sight of the bubbling cheese and crispy tortilla chips made my mouth water in anticipation. Maria handed me a plate and told me to dig in.

As I took my first bite, I was transported to a world of bold flavors and textures. The tender meat, tangy salsa, and creamy cheese melded together in perfect harmony, while the crunch of the tortilla chips added a delightful contrast. I couldn't believe how delicious it was – it was like nothing I had ever tasted before.

From that day on, Upside-down Tacos became a staple in my own kitchen. I would often make it for family gatherings and dinner parties, always receiving rave reviews from my guests. I loved how versatile the recipe was – I could easily customize it with different meats, cheeses, and toppings to suit any occasion.

Over the years, I continued to refine the recipe, adding my own personal touches and experimenting with new ingredients. I shared it with friends and neighbors, who were always eager to learn the secret behind this unique and delicious dish. It became a beloved tradition in my family, with my grandchildren always requesting it for special occasions.

As I sit here reminiscing about that fateful day in Maria's kitchen, I can't help but feel grateful for the culinary journey that led me to discover Upside-down Tacos. It's a recipe that holds a special place in my heart, a reminder of the joy and camaraderie that food can bring. And every time I make it, I remember the dear friend who shared it with me and the memories we created together in her kitchen.