Name: Mexican White Trash Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 packet taco seasoning; 1 can cream of chicken soup; 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies; 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 bag (8 oz) tortilla chips, crushed; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup sour cream; 1 cup frozen corn (optional); 1 small onion, diced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 cup salsa

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Mexican White Trash Casserole is a deliciously cheesy, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that brings the best of Mexican-inspired comfort food to your table. With a perfect blend of savory seasonings, creamy sauces, and hearty ingredients, it’s a crowd-pleaser that requires minimal prep time. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, preparing a party dish, or simply craving a hearty meal, this casserole is the answer. Its rich flavors and comforting texture make it a guaranteed hit for any occasion.

Mexican White Trash Casserole

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 packet taco seasoning
1 can cream of chicken soup
1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies
1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 bag (8 oz) tortilla chips, crushed
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup sour cream
1 cup frozen corn (optional)
1 small onion, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 cup salsa

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with diced onion and bell pepper until the beef is browned and the vegetables are softened.
Stir in the taco seasoning, black beans, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and salsa. Let it simmer for 5 minutes.
In a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish, layer the crushed tortilla chips, followed by the beef mixture, and then spread a layer of sour cream over the beef.
Top with shredded cheddar cheese and a sprinkling of frozen corn if desired.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6-8
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

Add extra veggies: You can add other veggies like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach to make the dish even heartier.
Spicy version: For an extra kick, add jalapeños or spicy salsa to the mixture.
Ground chicken or turkey: Swap the ground beef for leaner ground chicken or turkey if you want a healthier option.
Cheese variations: Mix in other types of cheese like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for added flavor.
Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free tortilla chips for a gluten-free version of this casserole.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave or reheat the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. If the casserole looks dry, you can add a little extra sour cream or salsa before reheating.

FAQs

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.

2. Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, you can freeze this casserole before or after baking. If freezing before baking, cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2-3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding extra time if needed.

3. Can I use a different type of meat?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even ground pork would work well in this recipe.

4. How do I make the casserole spicier?

Add jalapeños, hot salsa, or chili flakes to the meat mixture to give it some extra heat.

5. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, feel free to use different cheeses like Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or even a Mexican cheese blend for variety.

6. What if I don’t like beans?

If you’re not a fan of black beans, you can leave them out or substitute them with refried beans or another variety of beans, like pinto or kidney beans.

7. How do I make this casserole vegetarian?

For a vegetarian version, simply skip the ground beef and use extra beans, corn, or a combination of veggies for the filling.

8. What can I serve with this casserole?

This casserole pairs well with a side of Mexican rice, a fresh salad, or guacamole.

9. Can I add more crunch to the casserole?

If you want an extra crunch, top the casserole with additional crushed tortilla chips before baking, or add a layer of crushed nacho cheese chips.

10. Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the cheese and sour cream with dairy-free alternatives like vegan cheese and coconut or almond-based sour cream.

Conclusion

Mexican White Trash Casserole is a satisfying, easy-to-make dish that offers the perfect combination of cheesy, savory goodness with just the right amount of spice. It’s a versatile meal that can be tailored to fit any taste or dietary preference. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, this casserole will be a guaranteed favorite!