Easy Mexican Pile-Up Recipe: A Quick Family Dinner from My Mama’s Kitchen

So… Am I Bringing Back Recipes?

Kind of! 😄

Lately, I’ve been back to blogging and it’s been so fun. A few of you have asked if I’m going to start sharing meal plans and recipes again. The honest answer?

No to the meal plans—because it turns out, I actually don’t enjoy cooking that much. Who knew?

BUT… I do love it when I stumble upon a recipe that’s quick, easy, and crowd-pleasing. And when that happens, I believe in the sacred rule: sharing is caring. 💛

My mama, Irene, was an excellent cook. Some of her dishes are more involved than others, but this one is a go-to because it’s simple, hearty, kind of healthy, and perfect for busy school nights when you just don’t have it in you to whip up anything fancy.

Irene’s Mexican Pile-Up

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1 can pinto beans (undrained)

• ½ onion, chopped

• Garlic salt, pepper, and chili powder to taste

Toppings (build your bowl your way):

• Shredded lettuce

• Cherry tomatoes, halved

• Avocado, chopped

• Shredded cheese

• Crushed tortilla chips

• Picante sauce

• Sour cream

• Diced jalapeños

How to Make It:

1. Sauté the chopped onion until soft.

2. Add ground beef and cook until browned.

3. Season with garlic salt, pepper, and chili powder to taste.

4. Stir in the undrained pinto beans.

5. Let simmer for 30 minutes to an hour to let the flavors marry.

How to Build Your Bowl:

• Start with shredded lettuce.

• Add a generous scoop of the meat and bean mixture.

• Layer on your favorite toppings: tomatoes, avocado, chips, cheese, jalapeños, sour cream, and picante sauce.

Done and Delicious!

So easy, so satisfying—and so full of flavor. This is one of those throw-it-together dinners that never disappoints. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just want something easy on a Monday night, this one hits the spot.

Let me know if you try it—and if you have a favorite family “pile-up” version, I’d love to hear about it!

Bon appétit, friends! 🧡