As a child, I would visit my Aunt and Uncle in Oklahoma, after playing outside with my cousins, I would come inside to the aroma of simmering meat, tangy tomatoes, and the subtle warmth of spices always. It was the scent of Aunt Nonie’s Mess, a dish as beloved as the woman who created it!
Aunt Nonie, with her infectious laugh and heart of gold, always made me whatever I wanted when we visited on vacation. One of those things was her infamous dish, simply called “Mess.”
The recipe, written in Aunt Nonie’s unique handwriting, became a cherished family heirloom. It was a wild mix of flavors and textures, a true culinary adventure. Three pounds of ground beef, a colorful mix of tomatoes and peppers, creamy chicken soup, and a spicy kick of chili, all topped with crunchy tortilla chips and melted cheese.
After Aunt Nonie passed away, the recipe became even more special. It was a way to hold onto her memory, keeping her spirit alive. I still make it from time to time, but it’s never quite as good as when Aunt Nonie made it herself.
Aunt Nonie’s Mess Recipe
3 lbs hamburger
2 large tomatoes
1 green pepper
1 onion
2 cans Cream of Chicken soup
1 can tomato sauce
2 cans chili
1 tsp garlic powder
1 Dash oregano
1 Dash garlic salt
1/2 package Cheese Shredded
Tortilla Chips
Fry Hamburger, Onion, Pepper
Add other ingredients cook for 15-20 minutes
Break up chips
Layer the chips, Hamburger mixture and cheese (like a lasagna) in a pan, end with a layer of cheese
Bake in oven 20-25 mins at 350 Degrees.
Let cool 5 mins, dish out and eat with chips and enjoy!
