Texas Stuff: A Savory Tex-Mex Delight for All Occasions
If you’re looking for a delicious, quick, and easy Tex-Mex dish that can either stand alone as a main course or serve as a hearty appetizer, look no further than this Texas Stuff recipe. It brings together the bold flavors of lean ground beef, tomatoes and green chilies, Velveeta cheese, and tortilla chips to create a satisfying meal everyone will love. Whether served with a fresh salad for a full meal or as a dip in a chafing dish with a side of crispy tortilla chips, this dish is a true crowd-pleaser. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, game days, or any time you’re craving something comforting and flavorful.
Texas Stuff Recipe Overview
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 25 minutes |
| Total Time | 40 minutes |
| Recipe Category | Tex-Mex |
| Yield | 8 servings |
| Calories per Serving | 549 calories |
| Cuisine | Southwestern U.S. (Tex-Mex) |
| Keywords | Tex-Mex, Southwestern U.S., quick dinner, 60 minutes or less, party food, appetizer |
Ingredients for Texas Stuff
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Lean ground beef | 2 lbs |
| Onion (diced) | 1 medium |
| Tomatoes and green chilies (canned, diced) | 2 cans (14.5 oz each) |
| Velveeta cheese (cubed) | 1 block (16 oz) |
| Half-and-half (or cream) | 2 cups |
| Tortilla chips (for serving) | 1 bag (about 10 oz) |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 549 kcal |
| Fat | 30.6 g |
| Saturated Fat | 16.4 g |
| Cholesterol | 138.3 mg |
| Sodium | 1981.9 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 28.9 g |
| Fiber | 4.8 g |
| Sugar | 10.9 g |
| Protein | 38.6 g |
Instructions for Texas Stuff
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart as it cooks. Brown the beef for about 7-10 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure it cooks evenly. Once browned, drain any excess fat and return the beef to the skillet.
Step 2: Sautรฉ the Onion
Add the diced onion to the browned ground beef. Stir frequently and cook for 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes tender and translucent. This will add an aromatic base to the dish that complements the richness of the beef.
Step 3: Simmer the Tomatoes, Chiles, and Beans
To the skillet, add the canned tomatoes and green chilies (drain the excess liquid if necessary). Stir in the chili seasoning mix and the beans. Allow the mixture to simmer for 10-15 minutes. This gives the flavors time to meld together and ensures that the beans are heated through. You may also want to taste and adjust seasoning at this point, adding salt, pepper, or additional spices if desired.
Step 4: Melt the Cheese and Add Cream
Once the mixture has simmered, reduce the heat to low and stir in the cubed Velveeta cheese. Let it melt slowly, stirring occasionally, until the sauce becomes creamy and smooth. Once the cheese is fully incorporated, add the half-and-half, continuing to stir until everything is evenly blended. Allow it to simmer for another 5 minutes, so the cheese mixture thickens and becomes velvety.
Step 5: Serve with Tortilla Chips
To serve, arrange a generous portion of tortilla chips on individual plates or a large platter. Spoon the creamy, cheesy beef mixture over the chips, allowing the heat from the beef to soften them slightly, creating a savory, indulgent dish. This can be served as a main course with a side of fresh salad or as an appetizer at a party, where guests can dig in with their own chips.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
- For a lighter option: You can substitute the Velveeta cheese with a reduced-fat cheese and use half-and-half with a lower fat version to reduce the overall calorie count.
- Add some heat: If you prefer a spicier version, you can add a dash of hot sauce or a finely chopped jalapeรฑo to the beef mixture during the simmering step.
- For extra flavor: Top with fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, or a dollop of sour cream before serving for added freshness and a burst of flavor.
- Make it a full meal: Pair this dish with a simple salad, or even a side of guacamole and salsa, to create a well-rounded, satisfying meal.
Why You’ll Love This Texas Stuff
This Tex-Mex-inspired dish is perfect for a quick dinner, and it’s even better when shared with family and friends. The combination of hearty ground beef, creamy Velveeta cheese, and tangy tomatoes and green chilies makes it irresistibly rich and comforting. The tortilla chips provide a satisfying crunch, while the creamy beef mixture adds the perfect balance of texture and flavor. With a prep time of just 15 minutes and a cook time of 25 minutes, Texas Stuff can be on your table in under an hour, making it ideal for busy evenings or impromptu gatherings.
FAQs
-
Can I make Texas Stuff ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the beef mixture up to two days ahead and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. Serve with fresh tortilla chips at that time. -
Can I use a different type of cheese?
If Velveeta isn’t your favorite, you can use any meltable cheese, such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses. However, Velveeta creates a uniquely smooth, creamy texture that’s hard to replicate with other cheeses. -
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the mixture over low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure it doesnโt dry out. -
Can I add vegetables to the mix?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or even zucchini for a more vegetable-packed dish. Simply sautรฉ them along with the onions to soften before adding the beef.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering, preparing a satisfying family meal, or simply craving something with bold Southwestern flavors, this Texas Stuff recipe is sure to be a hit. With its combination of lean ground beef, creamy cheese, and crispy tortilla chips, itโs the perfect dish to bring everyone together, making it a must-try recipe for any Tex-Mex lover.
