Unexpected Pleasure: Mexican White Trash Casserole Recipe
Comfort food takes on a new dimension with this Mexican white trash casserole that blends hearty ingredients into a mouthwatering feast.
Layers of cheesy goodness meld with savory ground beef and crispy tortilla chips for an irresistible meal.
Home cooks adore how quickly this dish comes together with minimal effort.
The combination of simple pantry staples creates a surprisingly delectable dinner that satisfies even the pickiest eaters.
Packed with bold flavors and creamy textures, this casserole transforms ordinary weeknight dinners into something special.
Each bite promises a delightful mix of crispy, melty, and spicy elements that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Prepare to be amazed by this crowd-pleasing recipe that delivers maximum flavor with minimal preparation.
Mexican White Trash Casserole That’s Full of Flavor
What You Need for Mexican White Trash Casserole
Main Protein:Dairy Components:Flavor Enhancers:Crunchy Base:Preparation Components:How to Prepare Mexican White Trash Casserole Easily
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Dish
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 2-quart casserole dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Create the Flavorful Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the following ingredients:Stir the ingredients thoroughly until well blended and evenly mixed.
Step 3: Build the Layered Casserole
Spread a generous layer of crushed Doritos across the bottom of the greased dish.
Pour half of the chicken mixture over the chips, ensuring even coverage. Repeat the layering process with the remaining Doritos and chicken mixture.
If desired, sprinkle shredded cheese on top for extra richness.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and place in the preheated oven.
Bake for 35 minutes. During the final 10 minutes, remove the foil to allow the top to become golden and crispy.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the layers to set and makes serving easier.
Scoop onto plates and serve hot for a delicious, comforting meal.
Tips to Elevate Mexican White Trash Casserole
Flavorful Variations on Mexican White Trash Casserole
What Goes Well with Mexican White Trash Casserole
How to Store Mexican White Trash Casserole Safely
FAQs
Yes, ground beef or shredded turkey work great as alternatives to chicken in this casserole.
The heat level depends on the Rotel tomatoes and taco seasoning you choose. Use mild versions if you prefer less spice.
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add 5-10 extra minutes to the cooking time.
Use low-fat cream of chicken soup, reduced-fat sour cream, and lean chicken breast to make a lighter version of the casserole.
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Mexican White Trash Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 1x
Description
Hearty Mexican white trash casserole combines classic comfort with zesty southwestern flavors in one irresistible dish. Simple ingredients merge into a crowd-pleasing meal that satisfies hunger and delights taste buds with each savory, cheesy bite.
Ingredients
Protein:
- 2 cups shredded chicken
Cheese and Dairy:
- 2 cups shredded cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
Base and Seasoning Ingredients:
- 1 bag nacho Doritos, crushed
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 can Rotel tomatoes (with diced green chilies)
- 1/2 package taco seasoning
Instructions
- Prepare the oven at 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 2-quart casserole dish to ensure easy food release.
- Create a flavorful mixture by combining tender shredded chicken, creamy soup, zesty Rotel tomatoes, tangy sour cream, smooth milk, and robust taco seasoning in a mixing bowl, stirring until ingredients are thoroughly integrated.
- Construct the first foundation layer by evenly distributing crushed Doritos across the bottom of the greased dish, creating a crunchy base.
- Generously spread half of the chicken mixture over the Dorito layer, ensuring uniform coverage.
- Repeat the layering process by adding another layer of crushed Doritos followed by the remaining chicken mixture.
- Optional: Sprinkle shredded cheese across the top for an extra melty and golden finish.
- Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes to allow flavors to meld and ingredients to heat through.
- Remove the foil during the final 10 minutes of baking to create a crisp, slightly browned surface.
- Allow the casserole to rest for 3-5 minutes after removing from the oven, which helps set the layers and makes serving easier.
- Slice and serve while warm, enjoying the rich, textured combination of flavors and crunchy elements.
Notes
- Easily substitute shredded chicken with ground beef, turkey, or plant-based protein for different flavor profiles and dietary needs.
- Adjust taco seasoning and choose mild or hot Rotel tomatoes to customize heat intensity according to personal preference.
- Replace regular Doritos with baked tortilla chips or crushed whole grain chips to reduce overall fat and calorie content while maintaining crunch.
- Prepare the casserole in advance and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking, allowing flavors to meld and making meal prep more convenient.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 950 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 14 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg
Jess Martinez
Contributing Recipe Writer & Nutrition Consultant
Expertise
Southwestern and Latin American cooking, Nutritional analysis and healthy recipe planning, Cultural food traditions, Modifying traditional dishes for better health
Education
Santa Fe Community College
Certificate in Culinary Arts
Focused on mastering the flavors and cooking methods of traditional Southwestern cuisine.
Jess’s love for bold, homegrown flavors led her straight into the world of Southwestern cooking and cultural nutrition.
After completing her Certificate in Culinary Arts at Santa Fe Community College, she made it her mission to show that good-for-you food can still taste incredible.
At saltytart.com, Jess shares vibrant, health-conscious recipes with roots in tradition but a fresh, modern twist. When she’s not testing new recipes, you’ll find her at local growers’ markets, tending her herb garden, or digging into food history books.