Imagine a bubbling casserole that fills your kitchen with the warm, inviting aroma of spices and melted cheese. This Mexican White Trash Casserole is a delightful blend of creamy, cheesy goodness layered with tender chicken, zesty green chilies, and hearty beans, all topped with crunchy tortilla chips for that perfect crunch. Each bite is a fiesta of flavors, with a hint of smokiness and a touch of heat that dances on your palate. It’s the ultimate comfort food that brings everyone together, making any meal feel like a celebration!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Trust me, you’re going to love this creamy, cheesy goodness!
- This one’s a game-changer for busy weeknights—easy prep and minimal cleanup!
- It’s a crowd-pleaser that brings everyone to the table with its bold flavors!
- Perfect for using up pantry staples—no fancy ingredients needed!
- Customize it to your taste—add your favorite veggies or swap in chicken for a twist!
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category | Side Dish |
| Cuisine | American-inspired comfort food |
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 15 minutes |
| Total Time | 25 minutes |
| Dietary | Vegetarian |
| Serves | 4 |
| Best Served | Hot and cheesy right off the cob! |
Ingredients
- Ground Beef – A hearty base for the casserole, providing protein and flavor.
- Black Beans – Adds fiber and a delicious earthy taste.
- Corn – Sweetness and texture that complements the other ingredients.
- Green Bell Pepper – For a crunchy texture and fresh flavor.
- Onion – Enhances the overall flavor with its savory notes.
- Garlic – A must for adding depth and aroma to the dish.
- Mexican Seasoning – Brings a zesty kick and authentic flavor profile.
- Cheddar Cheese – Melts beautifully, adding creaminess and richness.
- Cream of Mushroom Soup – Acts as a binder, making the casserole creamy and comforting.
- Tortilla Chips – Adds a crunchy topping that contrasts with the soft filling.
Ingredients with measurements will be right under the article in the recipe card.
How to Make the Recipe
Gather your ingredients: ground turkey, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, taco seasoning, and cheese. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) for a cozy bake. In a large skillet, brown the ground turkey over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat and add in the black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes. Stir in the taco seasoning and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. In a greased casserole dish, layer half of the turkey mixture, followed by a layer of tortilla chips. Sprinkle a generous amount of cheese on top. Repeat the layers with the remaining turkey mixture, more chips, and finish with a final layer of cheese.
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious Mexican White Trash Casserole with your favorite toppings like sour cream or avocado!
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
•Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option without sacrificing flavor.
•Opt for low-sodium canned ingredients to control the saltiness of your dish.
•Add black beans or corn for extra texture and nutrition.
•Top with fresh cilantro or avocado for a burst of freshness before serving.
•Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies for a personal touch!
How to Serve
- Top with fresh cilantro for a burst of flavor.
- Serve with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt.
- Pair with crispy tortilla chips for added crunch.
- Offer sliced jalapeños for those who like it spicy.
- Accompany with a side of guacamole for creaminess.
- Serve alongside a fresh garden salad for a light touch.
- Try it with a side of Mexican street corn for a fun twist.
- Enjoy with a refreshing limeade or iced tea.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
•Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing.
•Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
•Label the container with the date for easy tracking.
•Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing
•Use a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty aluminum foil.
•Portion out servings for easy thawing.
•Leave some space at the top of the container for expansion.
•Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.
Reheating
•Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
•Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
•For microwave reheating, use a microwave-safe dish and cover.
•Add a splash of broth or water to maintain moisture.
FAQs
What can I use instead of ground beef?
If you’re looking for a substitute for ground beef, consider using ground turkey or chicken. These options are leaner and still provide great flavor. You can also use plant-based meat alternatives for a vegetarian version!
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap. When you’re ready to bake, simply pop it in the oven, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What toppings can I add to my casserole?
Get creative with your toppings! Consider adding shredded cheese, sliced jalapeños, or crushed tortilla chips for extra crunch. Fresh cilantro or avocado can also elevate the dish and add a burst of flavor!
Can I freeze Mexican White Trash Casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well! Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat it in the oven.
Final Thoughts
There you have it Mexican White Trash Casserole, a dish that’s as comforting as a warm hug! It’s simple, satisfying, and perfect for any occasion. So gather your loved ones, whip up this delightful casserole, and enjoy the delicious flavors together. Trust me, once you take that first bite, you’ll be hooked! Happy cooking, and may your kitchen be filled with laughter and love!
Mexican White Trash Casserole
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Gather your ingredients: ground beef, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, taco seasoning, and cheese. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) for a cozy bake.
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat and add in the black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes. Stir in the taco seasoning and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. In a greased casserole dish, layer half of the beef mixture, followed by a layer of tortilla chips. Sprinkle a generous amount of cheese on top. Repeat the layers with the remaining beef mixture, more chips, and finish with a final layer of cheese. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious Mexican White Trash Casserole with your favorite toppings like sour cream or avocado!