Mexican White Trash Casserole

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Introduction

Mexican White Trash Casserole is a crowd-pleasing, comfort-food dish that combines layers of Tex-Mex flavors with easy-to-find pantry staples. Packed with seasoned meat, melted cheese, and crispy tortilla chips, this casserole is perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or when you’re craving something indulgent and satisfying.

Origin and Cultural Significance

This dish blends the essence of Tex-Mex cuisine, known for its bold flavors and creative combinations, with the charm of Southern comfort food. While the name is playful, the dish celebrates the art of transforming simple ingredients into a hearty and flavorful meal.

Ingredients Quantity

  • 1 lb ground beef or ground turkey
  • 1 packet taco seasoning mix
  • 1 can (10 oz) Rotel (diced tomatoes and green chilies)
  • 1 can (10 oz) cream of chicken soup
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend
  • 1 bag (8 oz) tortilla chips, crushed
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed (optional)
  • 1 can (15 oz) corn kernels, drained (optional)
  • 1/2 cup diced onion (optional)
  • Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)

Optional Additions

  • 1/2 cup sliced black olives
  • Jalapeño slices for heat
  • Diced avocado for topping
  • A drizzle of hot sauce for extra spice

Tips for Success

  1. Layering: Ensure even layers for consistent flavors and textures in every bite.
  2. Customize Protein: Substitute the ground beef with shredded chicken or a plant-based alternative for variety.
  3. Cheese Melt: Add an extra layer of cheese on top for a gooey, golden-brown finish.
  4. Serve Fresh: Let the casserole sit for 5 minutes after baking to make it easier to slice and serve.

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Cook Meat: In a large skillet, cook ground beef or turkey over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
  3. Season: Add taco seasoning and follow packet instructions (usually adding water and simmering). Stir in Rotel, cream of chicken soup, and sour cream. Mix until combined.
  4. Layer the Casserole:
    • Spread a layer of crushed tortilla chips on the bottom of the baking dish.
    • Add half of the meat mixture over the chips.
    • Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese on top.
    • Repeat the layers (chips, meat mixture, cheese).
  5. Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Top with fresh cilantro, jalapeños, or diced avocado if desired. Serve hot.

Description

Mexican White Trash Casserole is a creamy, cheesy, and crunchy dish that brings together bold flavors of seasoned meat, creamy sauces, and melted cheese with the satisfying crunch of tortilla chips. Every bite is loaded with Tex-Mex goodness.

Nutritional Information (per serving, approximately):

  • Calories: ~400
  • Protein: 22g
  • Fat: 25g
    • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Carbohydrates: 25g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sodium: 800mg

Conclusion

This casserole is a delicious, no-fuss meal that’s sure to be a hit with family and friends. It’s easy to prepare, highly customizable, and incredibly satisfying.

Recommendation

Serve this casserole with a side of Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh salad to round out the meal. For drinks, a cold margarita or an icy lime soda pairs wonderfully with the Tex-Mex flavors.

Embracing Healthful Indulgence

For a lighter version, use baked tortilla chips, low-fat sour cream, and reduced-fat cheese. You can also add more vegetables, like bell peppers or zucchini, to boost the nutritional value while keeping the flavors intact.

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