This casserole is one that the whole family will love, even the kids and grandkids. It's flavorful, filled with ground beef, rice, cheese, refried beans and of course, Fritos.
1 1/4 lb. ground beef
16 oz. can refried beans
4 oz. can mild green chiles, diced
2 c. cooked rice
2 c. Cheddar or Mexican cheese blend, grated
2 c. Fritos, divided
1 c. salsa
1/4 c. water
1 medium yellow onion, chopped
1.25 oz. package taco seasoning
kosher salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown ground beef until cooked through and no longer pink. Discard most excess grease, leaving 1 T.; sauté onions until softened, 6-8 minutes.
Season with salt, pepper and taco seasoning; stir. Return ground beef to skillet; add salsa, chiles and water; stir. Bring mixture to a boil; reduce heat to low; cover; simmer 5 minutes.
Remove from heat; stir in rice, cheese, and refried beans; transfer mixture to a 9 × 13 inch baking dish; top with 1 c. Fritos.
Bake 30-35 minutes, or until cheese has melted and mixture is warmed through. Remove from oven.
Serve hot, topped with remaining Fritos.
6-8 servings.