HAYSTACK SUPPER

Haystack Supper image

Served as the main dish at our family reunion buffet, this flavorful layered taco-style dish was a true crowd-pleaser. Folks were pleasantly surprised to find a rice layer, and everyone enjoys the creamy cheese sauce. -Jill Steiner, Hancock, Minnesota

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories Dinner

Time 25m

Yield 2 casseroles (6 servings each).

Number Of Ingredients 17

Ingredients

1-3/4 cups crushed saltines (about 40 crackers)
2 cups cooked rice
3 pounds ground beef
1 large onion, chopped
1-1/2 cups tomato juice
3/4 cup water
3 tablespoons taco seasoning
Seasoned salt, salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup butter, cubed
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
4 cups whole milk
1 pound process cheese (Velveeta), cubed
4 cups shredded lettuce
3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
3 medium tomatoes, diced
1 jar (10 ounces) pimiento-stuffed olives
1 package (14-1/2 ounces) tortilla chips

Steps:

Divide crackers between 2 ungreased 13x9-in. baking dishes. Top each with rice. , In a large skillet, cook beef and onion until meat is no longer pink; drain. Add the tomato juice, water and seasonings; simmer for 15-20 minutes. Spoon over rice., In a large saucepan, melt butter. Stir in flour until smooth. Gradually add milk. Bring to a boil; cook and stir until thickened, about 2 minutes. , Reduce heat; stir in Velveeta cheese until melted. Pour over beef mixture. Top with lettuce, cheddar cheese, tomatoes and olives. Serve with chips. Refrigerate any leftovers.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 888 calories, Fat 55g fat (24g saturated fat), Cholesterol 164mg cholesterol, Sodium 1746mg sodium, Carbohydrate 57g carbohydrate (9g sugars, Fiber 3g fiber), Protein 41g protein.