Looking for an easy, cheesy, and downright satisfying dish to feed the whole family? This Mexican White Trash Casserole is a hearty and flavorful option that combines ground beef, taco seasoning, creamy soups, and plenty of cheese in one comforting bake. It’s the perfect meal for busy weeknights when you want to enjoy something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
This casserole layers Mexican-inspired ingredients like beef, corn, and cheese with a creamy, rich sauce. The flavors are bold yet comforting, making it a hit for both adults and kids alike. With minimal prep time and ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry, this casserole will soon become one of your go-to dinners.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies (drained)
- 1 can corn (drained)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1 bag of tortilla chips (crushed)
- ½ cup sour cream (optional)
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Preparation:
Step 1:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating, cook the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess grease.
Step 2:
Stir the taco seasoning into the cooked beef according to the package instructions (usually with a little water). Let the mixture simmer for a couple of minutes to fully infuse the flavor.
Step 3:
In a large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and drained corn. Stir well to make a creamy, hearty sauce.
Step 4:
In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spread half of the crushed tortilla chips as the base. Then, layer half of the cooked beef mixture over the chips, followed by half of the soup mixture. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese on top.
Step 5:
Repeat the layers: crushed chips, beef mixture, soup mixture, and top with the remaining cheese.
Step 6:
Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly. Optionally, after baking, dollop sour cream on top and garnish with fresh cilantro for a refreshing finish.
Variation
- Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy spicier dishes, you can swap regular diced tomatoes for a can of diced tomatoes with habaneros or add sliced jalapeños into the soup mixture.
- Chicken Twist: Replace the ground beef with shredded rotisserie chicken for a lighter take on this casserole.
- Vegetarian Option: Swap the beef for black beans or pinto beans and load up with extra veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for a meat-free version.
COOKING Note:
Make sure to fully drain the ground beef and canned ingredients to prevent the casserole from becoming too soggy. You can also crush the tortilla chips coarsely for a crunchier texture or finely if you prefer a smoother casserole consistency.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the Mexican White Trash Casserole with a side of fresh guacamole or a simple avocado salad.
- Add a spoonful of sour cream or salsa on top of each portion for extra flavor.
- You can also pair this casserole with Mexican rice or refried beans for a complete meal.
Tips:
- To make this dish even more convenient, prep everything the night before and store the casserole in the fridge. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to bake!
- If you’re cooking for a crowd, this recipe is easy to double and bake in a larger dish.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated in the microwave or oven.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Nutritional Information (approximate per serving):
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 20g
- Sodium: 950mg
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to adjust the baking time slightly to ensure it’s heated all the way through.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Absolutely. Prepare the casserole and freeze it before baking. When you’re ready to enjoy it, let it thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed. You may need to add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if it’s not fully thawed.
What can I substitute for taco seasoning?
If you’re out of taco seasoning, you can make your own with a blend of chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and a pinch of oregano and cayenne pepper.
Can I add more veggies to this recipe?
Definitely! Bell peppers, onions, and zucchini all make great additions. Just sauté them with the beef before layering them into the casserole.
Conclusion
The Mexican White Trash Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for family dinners or even casual gatherings with friends. With layers of cheesy goodness, beefy flavors, and a hint of spice, this dish is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. Plus, the variations make it versatile enough to suit any preference. Whether you stick with the classic recipe or tweak it to your liking, this casserole will be an instant favorite!
Enjoy your meal and share the love of this satisfying, crowd-pleasing dish!