The Texas Straw Hat is a hearty, kid-friendly dish that evokes the bold flavors of Tex-Mex cuisine. This recipe combines succulent ground beef with a medley of vegetables and spices, creating a savory base that’s perfect for piling atop crunchy corn chips and garnishing with sharp cheddar cheese. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a dish that captures the essence of Southwestern cuisine, this Texas Straw Hat recipe is sure to satisfy.
Recipe Overview
- Name: Texas Straw Hat
- Description: Make and share this Texas Straw Hat recipe from lovewithrecipes.com.
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Recipe Category: Cheese
- Keywords: Meat, Tex-Mex, Southwestern U.S., Kid Friendly, < 60 Mins, Stove Top
- Aggregated Rating: 4 stars
- Review Count: 1 review
- Calories: 571.2 per serving
- Fat Content: 36.5g
- Saturated Fat Content: 18.7g
- Cholesterol Content: 136.4mg
- Sodium Content: 1437.6mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 23.7g
- Fiber Content: 5.6g
- Sugar Content: 13.6g
- Protein Content: 39.7g
- Recipe Servings: Variable (not specified)
- Recipe Yield: Variable (not specified)
Ingredients
Here’s a detailed look at the ingredients you’ll need for this delicious dish:
- 1 pound ground beef – Provides the main protein and flavor base.
- 1 onion, chopped – Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 2/3 cup chopped celery – Introduces a subtle crunch and freshness.
- 2/3 cup chopped green bell pepper – Adds a sweet and slightly bitter note.
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste – Concentrates tomato flavor and thickens the sauce.
- 1 cup water – Helps to create a simmering sauce.
- 2 teaspoons chili powder – Adds a mild heat and smokiness.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce – Imparts umami and a tangy depth.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt – Enhances the overall flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme – Provides an earthy and slightly minty note.
- 1/8 teaspoon pepper – Adds a mild kick of heat.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – Melts on top for a rich, cheesy finish.
Instructions
Here’s how you can prepare this Tex-Mex delight:
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Cook the Ground Beef and Vegetables:
- In a large skillet, combine the ground beef, onion, celery, and green bell pepper.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the meat is browned and the vegetables are tender.
- Tip: Use a spatula or wooden spoon to crumble the meat as it cooks for an even texture.
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Drain Excess Fat:
- Once the beef is cooked through, carefully drain off the pan drippings to reduce excess fat and calories.
- Tip: Use a spoon to skim the fat off the top or a colander to strain it out.
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Prepare the Sauce:
- Return the beef mixture to the skillet and stir in the tomato paste, water, chili powder, Worcestershire sauce, salt, dried thyme, and pepper.
- Tip: Mixing the tomato paste with water before adding it can help it blend more smoothly into the sauce.
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Simmer the Mixture:
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Tip: Adjust the consistency by adding more water if the mixture becomes too thick.
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Serve:
- To serve, place a generous handful of corn chips on each plate.
- Spoon the beef mixture over the corn chips, distributing it evenly.
- Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Tip: Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, or a dollop of sour cream for added flavor and presentation.
Nutritional Information
This Texas Straw Hat recipe provides a hearty meal with the following nutritional profile per serving:
- Calories: 571.2 kcal
- Total Fat: 36.5g
- Saturated Fat: 18.7g
- Cholesterol: 136.4mg
- Sodium: 1437.6mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 23.7g
- Dietary Fiber: 5.6g
- Sugars: 13.6g
- Protein: 39.7g
Variations and Tips
- Spice Level: Adjust the chili powder according to your spice preference. For a spicier kick, add some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- Vegetable Additions: Enhance the nutritional value by adding more vegetables like corn kernels, black beans, or diced tomatoes.
- Cheese Options: Swap out cheddar for Monterey Jack, Colby, or even a spicy Pepper Jack for different flavor profiles.
- Healthier Option: Use lean ground beef or substitute with ground turkey or chicken to reduce fat content.
- Presentation: Serve the mixture in individual bowls with the corn chips and cheese on the side, allowing each person to customize their own Texas Straw Hat.
Cooking Tips
- Browning the Beef: Ensure the beef is fully browned before adding other ingredients to develop a deep, rich flavor.
- Simmering: Allowing the mixture to simmer fully helps meld the flavors together and thickens the sauce.
- Corn Chips: For the best texture, add the beef mixture to the corn chips just before serving to maintain their crunchiness.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Texas Straw Hat with a fresh side salad or some creamy guacamole to balance out the richness of the dish. A cold beverage, like a refreshing iced tea or a Mexican beer, can complement the Tex-Mex flavors beautifully.
Final Thoughts
The Texas Straw Hat is a delightful and versatile dish that embodies the robust flavors of Tex-Mex cuisine. Its combination of ground beef, vegetables, and a spicy tomato sauce, served over crispy corn chips and topped with melted cheese, makes it a crowd-pleaser perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. Enjoy this dish as is, or customize it to suit your taste preferences for a truly unique meal experience.
