Gluten Free Nacho Dinner Casserole

Gluten Free Nacho Dinner Casserole combines salty, spicy, meaty, cheesy, and fresh flavors. This Mexican-style layered dish is packed with so much goodness and is simple and quick to make, making weeknight meals a breeze.

WHAT IS GLUTEN FREE NACHO CASSEROLE?

The Nacho Dinner Casserole is a delicious twist on traditional nachos, transforming the popular snack into a hearty and shareable weeknight meal. 

This casserole features layers of gluten-free tortilla chips, seasoned ground meat with added black beans, diced bell peppers, red onions, and tomatoes. And plenty of cheese and sliced olives.

The layered casserole is baked until the cheese is melted and bubbly, creating a gooey texture and keeping some crunchiness from the tortilla chips. 

FAQS ABOUT NACHO CASSEROLE

Is nacho casserole gluten-free?

Yes, if prepared using gluten-free tortilla chips and all other ingredients are gluten free. It’s important to check labels and use gluten-free products, including spices and cheese.

Can I make nacho casserole vegetarian?

 You can substitute meat with plant-based alternatives or add more veggies such as zucchini, corn, mushrooms, and extra beans. And, replace the cheese with a vegan option, such as shredded vegan mozzarella cheese.

Can I make it ahead of time?

You can make the meat mixture ahead of time. When ready, heat the meat mixture and use it as per recipe. Only assemble the casserole just before baking, or the tortilla chips will lose their crunchiness.

What are good toppings for nacho casserole?

Popular toppings include fresh cilantro, sliced avocado, sour cream or Greek yogurt, salsa, sliced olives, fresh jalapenos, thinly sliced green onions and lime wedges.

Can I freeze nacho casserole?

No, I don’t recommend it. The tortilla chips may become soft.

What type of cheese works best?

A shredded Mexican cheese blend or a combination of cheddar and Monterey Jack is best for the nacho casserole. However, you can use your favorite good melting cheese, such as gouda, provolone, mozzarella, or gruyere, if you wish.

RECIPE DETAILS

What we love about this gluten free nacho dinner casserole is the quick prep and short baking time.

Start with browning the meat in a large skillet. If your ground meat is not lean, you may have to drain some of the fat before adding onions and bell peppers.

Once you briefly cook the onions and peppers with the ground meat, stir in spices, tomatoes, beans, and some sliced olives. If you like the casserole spicy, add some sliced jalapeno peppers. Cook briefly over medium heat to distribute the flavors.

The next step is to assemble the nacho casserole in a baking dish.

Start with a layer of tortilla chips, cheese, and meat mixture, then tortilla chips, cheese, and meat mixture, then cheese and sliced olives.

Bake until the cheese has melted, about 15 minutes. Done!

HOMEMADE GLUTEN FREE TACO SEASONING RECIPE (makes 3 tbsp + 1 tsp)

• 1 tbsp GF chili powder
• 1 tsp GF ground cumin
• 1 tsp GF paprika
• 1 tsp GF ground coriander
• 1 tsp GF garlic powder
• 1 tsp GF onion powder
• 1/2 tsp GF dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp GF red pepper flakes (adjust for spiciness)
• 1/2 tsp GF black pepper
• 1/2 tsp sea salt

In a bowl, combine all the spices and mix well until evenly blended.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

Family-style:

Serve the casserole in the baking dish for a family-style serving. Allow everyone to dig in and enjoy with preferred toppings and a green salad.

Crowd-favorite

Slice the nacho casserole into smaller pieces and serve on appetizer plates alongside lime wedges, sour cream, and salsa.

TAKEAWAY

Prepare this gluten-free nacho dinner casserole with a Mexican flair in about 30 minutes. It features layers of deliciously seasoned ground meat, vegetables, tortilla chips, and cheese, all baked into a hearty casserole. Customize it with your favorite toppings, making it a crowd-pleasing favorite for gatherings or family meals.

IF YOU LIKE MEXICAN FLAVORS YOU MAY ENJOY THESE RECIPES

Taco Stuffed Roasted Kabocha

30-Minute One Pot Cheesy Chicken Taco Rice

30 Minute Gluten-Free Crispy Carnitas Tacos with Avocado Yogurt Cream

Mexican Chicken Rice Soup

Instant Pot Salsa Verde Chicken

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Many thanks!

Kristina x