Mexican White Trash Casserole

If you’re looking for a quick, flavorful, and crowd-pleasing casserole, Mexican White Trash Casserole is an excellent choice. This dish combines crunchy Doritos, tender shredded chicken or savory ground beef, creamy soup, and cheese for a comforting and easy-to-make meal. Perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or casual family dinners, this casserole delivers bold Tex-Mex flavors with minimal effort.

Ingredients

• 1 bag Nacho Doritos, crushed
• 2 cups shredded chicken or ground beef
• 2 cups shredded cheese (add more if you like it extra cheesy)
• 1 can (10.75 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 1 can Rotel tomatoes, undrained
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup milk

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, undrained Rotel tomatoes, sour cream, and milk. Stir until smooth and well mixed.
3. Add the shredded chicken or cooked ground beef to the bowl and mix to coat the meat evenly with the sauce.
4. In a greased casserole dish, spread a layer of crushed Nacho Doritos on the bottom.
5. Pour the meat mixture over the Doritos, spreading it out evenly.
6. Sprinkle the shredded cheese generously on top of the casserole.
7. Add another layer of crushed Doritos on top of the cheese if you want extra crunch.
8. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serve the Mexican White Trash Casserole hot, garnished with fresh toppings like chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, or a dollop of extra sour cream to enhance the flavors. It pairs perfectly with a side of Mexican rice, guacamole, or a crisp green salad to balance the richness.

For storage, allow the casserole to cool completely before covering it tightly with plastic wrap or transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through and bubbly. This casserole can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Variations

1. Ground Beef Version
   Swap the shredded chicken for cooked ground beef seasoned with taco spices such as cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder. This adds a richer, heartier flavor and makes the casserole more filling.
2. Spicy Jalapeño Kick
   Add diced fresh or pickled jalapeños to the mixture or mix some chopped jalapeños into the Rotel tomatoes for an extra spicy bite. You can also sprinkle sliced jalapeños on top before baking.
3. Vegetarian Option
   Replace the meat with black beans or pinto beans for a vegetarian-friendly casserole. You can also add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, corn, and onions to boost nutrition and flavor.
4. Cheese Variations
   Use a Mexican cheese blend, pepper jack, or even a sharp cheddar instead of just shredded cheese to bring more depth and creaminess. For an extra cheesy layer, add cream cheese to the soup mixture.
5. Crunchy Topping
   Instead of topping with just crushed Doritos, mix crushed tortilla chips with some melted butter and sprinkle on top for a golden, crispy crust after baking.
6. Creamier Casserole
   Increase the amount of sour cream or add a dollop of cream cheese to the sauce mixture for a richer, creamier texture that melts perfectly with the cheese.
7. Add Fresh Herbs
   Stir in chopped cilantro or green onions into the casserole before baking or sprinkle on top after baking for fresh, vibrant flavor.

Each of these variations allows you to customize the casserole to your taste preferences or dietary needs, making Mexican White Trash Casserole a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish.

FAQs

How can I make this casserole healthier?
Use lean ground turkey instead of beef or chicken, low-fat cheese and sour cream, and opt for baked tortilla chips instead of Doritos. Adding extra vegetables is another great option.
Mexican White Trash Casserole is a tasty, easy-to-prepare dish that combines familiar ingredients into a comforting meal with a Tex-Mex twist. Its simple preparation and flexibility make it a great option for busy families or anyone craving a flavorful casserole. Try this recipe for your next meal and enjoy a satisfying dish that everyone will love.

Can I use frozen chicken for this casserole?
Yes, cooked frozen chicken works well. Just thaw and shred it before mixing with the other ingredients.

Can I substitute the Doritos with another type of chip?
Absolutely. Tortilla chips or another flavored chip like Cool Ranch Doritos can be used for a different taste.

Is this casserole spicy?
It has a mild spice level thanks to the Rotel tomatoes. You can increase or decrease spice by adjusting the amount of jalapeños or using mild tomatoes.

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble it the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Bake it when you’re ready to serve.

How long does it take to bake?
Bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
Check the ingredients for gluten. Many Doritos and canned soups contain gluten, so choose gluten-free versions to make this dish safe for gluten-sensitive diets.

What can I serve with this casserole?
It pairs well with Mexican rice, a fresh salad, guacamole, or steamed vegetables.

Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, store leftovers in an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Can I use cream of mushroom soup instead of cream of chicken?
Yes, cream of mushroom soup works fine and changes the flavor slightly.

Mexican White Trash Casserole is a tasty, easy-to-prepare dish that combines familiar ingredients into a comforting meal with a Tex-Mex twist. Its simple preparation and flexibility make it a great option for busy families or anyone craving a flavorful casserole. Try this recipe for your next meal and enjoy a satisfying dish that everyone will love.

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