Stacks
This simple, family-favorite meal layers buttery Ritz crackers, fluffy rice, hearty chili, and fresh toppings into a delicious stack of flavors and textures. Quick to prepare and easy to customize, it's perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, and casual gatherings.
Prep
15 min
Cook
15 min
Temp
Stovetop
Yield
8 servings
Ingredients
- Base
- 8 ounces long-grain white rice, cooked (or about 2½ cups cooked rice)
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers (about 35 crackers), crushed
- 2 (15 oz) cans chili (with or without beans)
- Toppings
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 cup sour cream
- Optional Add-Ons
- Salsa
- Diced jalapeños
- Diced avocado
- Sliced green onions
- Chopped cilantro
Instructions
1Cook the rice. Prepare the rice according to the package directions until tender and fluffy. Keep warm until ready to serve.
2Heat the chili. Pour the chili into a saucepan and warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
3Crush the crackers. Lightly crush the Ritz crackers, leaving some larger pieces for texture. Place in a serving bowl.
4Prepare the toppings. Arrange the shredded cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, sour cream, and any optional add-ons in individual bowls for easy serving.
5Build the stacks. Let everyone build their own stack by layering crushed crackers, rice, chili, cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, and sour cream in the order they prefer.
Tips & Variations
- Cheesy Stacks – Use a blend of shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for extra flavor and creaminess.
- Spicy Stacks – Add diced jalapeños, your favorite salsa, or diced green chilies for extra heat.
- Protein Options – Try shredded chicken, taco-seasoned ground turkey, or homemade chili instead of canned chili.
- More Toppings – Add diced avocado, sliced green onions, or chopped cilantro for extra freshness and flavor.
- Make It Heartier – Add a layer of refried beans or black beans between the rice and chili for an even more filling meal.