If you are craving a dish that perfectly blends bold Mexican flavors with irresistible comfort food vibes, look no further than this Mexican White Trash Casserole Recipe. It’s a hearty, cheesy, and ultra-satisfying casserole that brings together seasoned ground beef, creamy soups, crunchy Doritos, and melty cheddar cheese in a baked masterpiece. Every bite bursts with layers of texture and flavor, making it a true crowd-pleaser for weeknight dinners or casual get-togethers. Once you try this recipe, it might just become one of your all-time favorites.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Mexican White Trash Casserole Recipe lies in its simplicity and accessibility. All the ingredients are straightforward pantry staples, but each plays a unique role in building that comforting yet exciting flavor and texture combination you’ll love.
- 1 pound ground beef: Provides a rich, meaty base that holds all the flavors together.
- 1 small yellow onion (diced): Adds sweetness and a subtle crunch when cooked down.
- 1 packet taco seasoning: Brings that classic Mexican spice and depth with minimal effort.
- 1/2 cup water: Helps create a slightly saucy consistency once combined with seasoning.
- 1 (10 oz) can Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies (undrained): Delivers juicy, tangy heat to the mix.
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup: Adds creaminess and richness that binds everything perfectly.
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup: Enhances the savory depth and smooth texture.
- 1 cup sour cream: Introduces a slight tang and extra creaminess to balance the spices.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided): Offers ooey-gooey melted goodness, both inside and on top.
- 1 bag (10–12 oz) Doritos (Nacho Cheese or Cool Ranch, crushed): Adds the signature crunchy and flavorful crust that makes this casserole stand out.
How to Make Mexican White Trash Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Beef and Onion
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion, cooking until the beef loses its pink color and the onion softens. Don’t forget to drain any excess grease to keep the casserole from becoming too oily. This foundational step creates a savory and fragrant base for the casserole’s layers.
Step 2: Add Taco Seasoning and Simmer
Next, sprinkle the packet of taco seasoning over the cooked beef and onion mixture and pour in the water. Stir well and let it simmer for 2 to 3 minutes. This step intensifies the flavors while allowing the seasoning to coat each morsel of beef perfectly.
Step 3: Mix in Soups, Sour Cream, and Cheese
Now, bring in the creaminess! Add the undrained can of Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies, cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and one cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Stir everything thoroughly until it’s well combined and heated through. The mixture will be thick and luscious, forming the heart of your casserole.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Grab a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Start by spreading half of the crushed Doritos evenly on the bottom for that irresistible crunch. Pour the beef and cheese mixture over these chips and smooth it out to cover completely. Then, sprinkle the remaining Doritos on top, followed by the last cup of shredded cheddar cheese. This layering ensures every bite has a perfect blend of crunchy, cheesy, and meaty textures.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pop your assembled casserole into a preheated 350°F oven. Bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes until the cheese is melted to golden perfection and the casserole bubbles happily around the edges. Let it rest for about 5 minutes before cutting into it; this helps it set and makes serving a breeze.
How to Serve Mexican White Trash Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Take your Mexican White Trash Casserole Recipe to the next level by topping it with fresh garnishes. Chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, or a dollop of sour cream can add brightness and a fresh contrast to the richness. Some diced avocado or jalapeños bring in creaminess and a little extra kick if you like it spicy.
Side Dishes
This casserole is satisfying on its own, but pairing it with simple sides makes for a well-rounded meal. Consider a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness or a bowl of black beans and Mexican rice for even more hearty comfort. Corn on the cob or a light cucumber salad can also provide a refreshing accompaniment.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress your friends or family? Try serving portions of the casserole in individual ramekins for a charming, personalized touch. Alternatively, crumble the baked casserole over a bed of lettuce for a unique taco salad twist. For gatherings, this dish also works beautifully as a buffet option where everyone can help themselves to their favorite garnishes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your delicious Mexican White Trash Casserole Recipe, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 to 4 days, making it an excellent option for easy lunches or quick dinners later in the week.
Freezing
This casserole freezes well, too! If you want to prepare it ahead of time, assemble it as directed but do not bake. Wrap the casserole tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking according to the original instructions.
Reheating
To reheat, place portions in the microwave or warm the entire casserole in a 350°F oven until heated through and bubbly, about 15 to 20 minutes. Adding a little extra cheese on top before reheating can revive that fresh-baked feel you love.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or shredded chicken works wonderfully in this Mexican White Trash Casserole Recipe for a lighter option without losing any flavor. Just adjust the cooking time slightly if needed.
How spicy is this casserole? Can I make it milder or hotter?
The spiciness depends largely on the type of taco seasoning and Rotel you use. For a milder dish, select a mild seasoning mix or drain some of the Rotel juice. For more heat, add chopped jalapeños or switch to spicy taco seasoning.
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Definitely! This casserole is one of those rare dishes that tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prepping. It reheats beautifully and can be portioned for easy grab-and-go meals.
Can I substitute the Doritos for another chip?
While Doritos give this recipe its signature crunch and flavor, you can substitute with plain tortilla chips or another flavored chip if preferred. Just keep in mind the overall flavor and texture might change slightly.
What can I serve with this casserole for a balanced meal?
Pairing the Mexican White Trash Casserole Recipe with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables adds nutrients and a refreshing contrast. Black beans, corn, or Mexican rice also make tasty and filling sides that complement the dish well.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a dish that’s bursting with flavor, effortless to prepare, and downright comforting, this Mexican White Trash Casserole Recipe is your new go-to. It’s a clever twist on classic Tex-Mex flavors combined with the fun and nostalgia of crunchy Doritos and creamy cheese. Gather your ingredients, invite some friends, and get ready to make your kitchen smell amazing. Trust me, this casserole will soon be a beloved staple in your recipe box!
Print
Mexican White Trash Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
Description
This Mexican White Trash Casserole is a hearty and flavorful baked dish featuring seasoned ground beef, diced tomatoes with green chilies, creamy soups, and a crunchy topping of crushed Doritos and melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner, this casserole combines Tex-Mex flavors with an easy-to-make layered preparation that the whole family will love.
Ingredients
Beef Mixture
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 (10 oz) can Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
Topping
- 1 bag (10–12 oz) Doritos (Nacho Cheese or Cool Ranch), crushed
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the casserole later.
- Cook Beef and Onion: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion together until the beef is fully browned and the onions are soft. Drain any excess grease to avoid a greasy casserole.
- Season Meat: Stir in the taco seasoning packet and 1/2 cup water with the cooked beef and onion. Let it simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly, concentrating the flavors.
- Add Creamy Ingredients: To the skillet, add the undrained Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies, cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Stir thoroughly until everything is well combined and heated through to create a creamy, cheesy meat filling.
- Assemble Casserole: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread half of the crushed Doritos evenly on the bottom. Pour the beef mixture over the chips and spread it out smoothly. Top with the remaining crushed Doritos and sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the cheese on top is fully melted and the casserole is bubbly around the edges.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps the layers set for easier slicing and serving.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or shredded chicken instead of ground beef for a lighter or different protein option.
- For extra heat, add chopped jalapeños to the beef mixture or use a spicy taco seasoning packet.
- This casserole is an excellent make-ahead dish; it reheats well in the microwave or oven.
- Use your favorite Doritos flavor for a unique twist, but Nacho Cheese or Cool Ranch work best for traditional taste.
