Quick Taco Casserole Goodness

WARNING: Church cookbook recipe. This is super good stuff.

When I used to work at Transfiguration Lutheran Church, I was given an old cookbook during our construction period. And let me tell ya, there is one recipe in this book that I can't get enough of. It's easy, quick and so good. You're going to wonder how this is remotely healthy. And yeah, the original recipe isn't really packed with super foods and nutrients, but there's always a way to add freshness and so I tried to make it that way. Below is what I do. I thought I'd spare you the iceberg lettuce. However, I couldn't get rid of the Frito's. Sorry. I usually make this dish when guests come over and the only one who hasn't liked it was my friend Angela Hoover...well, because there were too many veggies in it. She carefully picked them out. Good news! She has recently texted me a picture of broccoli in her kitchen. She's trying.

Quick Taco Casserole
Serves 6-8
(Found in Transfiguration Lutheran Church's Cookbook 1977, Mrs. Gloria Schroeder)

1 6-ounce package of Frito's. (Let's be honest here...I fill the bottom of a 9 x 13 pan with Frito's so there's no white space. Not sure 6 ounces can do that.)
1.5 lbs ground beef
1 can chili beans
1 packet taco/Mexican cheese
3-4 green onions
1 red pepper
1 yellow pepper
1 can sliced olives
1 bushel grape tomatoes
1 head of romaine lettuce
1 8-ounce can mild enchilada sauce
1 8-ounce can tomato sauce
1 8-ounce can taco sauce

Layer Frito's in bottom of 9 x 13 pan. Put in oven until crisp. (DO NOT BURN...I've done this before. Ruins the taste. Duh.). Brown meat and drain. Sprinkle beef over Frito's. Heat beans separately and spread over ground beef. Sprinkle half of cheese over beans. Add lettuce, tomatoes, peppers, onions, olives. Heat sauces together and pour over vegetables. Sprinkle with remaining cheese. Serve immediately. I serve with salsa and sour cream...and sprinkle cilantro for taste! I'm serious...this dish is GOOD. If you try it, please let me know what you think.

Karl's reaction: "Yessss! You're making this again?"