Mexican Pile Ups

This recipe is adapted from the Favorites Cookbook which is a local book that raises money for the Make a Wish Foundation.  There are a ton of great recipes in it.  This recipe makes A TON so it would be perfect if you are making it for a gathering or are in a dinner co-op or something. This would be a perfect freezer meal.

The original recipe called for 2 cans tomato paste but it was a little thick so omitted one and added a can of diced tomatoes instead.  I always use Lawry's Enchilada spices, I like them the best.  I always serve them with a tortilla and Spanish rice.

Mexican Pile Ups

adapted from Favorites cookbook

3 lbs ground beef

3 cups water

1 16 oz can refried beans

1 pkg. enchilada mix

1 14 oz can enchilada sauce

1 6 oz cans tomato paste

1 16 oz can diced tomatoes

Cook beef and drain fat.  Add the rest of the ingredients and simmer for 2 to  3 hours on top of the stove or in the oven at 300 degrees.  Maybe also try the slow cooker?

Pile in this order

Tortilla (optional)

Rice (white or Spanish)

Chips

Meat

Grated cheese

Green onions

Olives

Tomato

Avacado

Lettuce

Sour cream

Salsa

Crockpot Italian Chicken

Here is another recipe from the family meal schedule.  This takes about 5 minutes to put together.  I haven't tried freezing it but I bet you could cook it and then ladle it into freezer bags once cooled but it takes so little prep time that I have never bothered.  The original recipe called for chicken breasts but I like thighs better in the slow cooker.  I think it would be good to add some sort of tomato sauce or something.  I always have peas with this recipe, I like the combination.

Italian Chicken
Adapted from the Favorite's Cookbook

4 to 5 lbs. boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1 can cream of chicken soup
1 8 oz. package cream cheese
1 packet Good Seasonings Italian dressing mix
1/2 cup chicken broth, or as needed

Combine soup, cream cheese, and dressing mix.  Pour over chicken and cook in slow cooker all day on low heat.  About an hour or so before serving shred the chicken and add chicken broth if you want a little thinner consistency.  Serve over noodles.