Discover the ultimate comfort food with our Mexican White Trash casserole recipe. This dish combines layers of savory goodness, creamy textures, and a satisfying crunch that will have your taste buds dancing. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends, this casserole is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Let’s dive into how you can create this delicious and hearty dish step-by-step.
Ingredients
For the Mexican White Trash Casserole:
- 1 package Taco Seasoning
- 4 cups Shredded Cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 2 cans Cream of Chicken Soup
- 1 cup Milk
- 2 bags Nacho Doritos, crushed
- 1 cup Sour Cream
- 4 cups Shredded Chicken
- 2 cans Rotel Tomatoes
Instructions
1. Preparing Your Casserole
- Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
- Mixing the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the taco seasoning, shredded cheese, cream of chicken soup, milk, crushed Nacho Doritos (reserving some for topping), sour cream, shredded chicken, and Rotel tomatoes. Mix everything together until well combined.
2. Layering and Baking
- Building Layers: Spread half of the Doritos mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Repeat the layering process with the remaining mixture.
- Top with Doritos: Sprinkle the reserved crushed Nacho Doritos over the top layer of the casserole. This will add a delicious crunch and extra flavor.
- Baking: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
3. Serving Your Casserole
- Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with chopped cilantro, diced avocado, or a dollop of sour cream for added freshness and flavor.
Cook’s Notes
- Ingredient Substitutions: Feel free to customize this casserole to your liking. You can use different types of cheese, add more or less spice with the taco seasoning, or substitute shredded beef or turkey for chicken.
- Make-Ahead Tip: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. This makes it a convenient option for busy weeknights or meal prepping.
Variations
Vegetarian Option
- Black Beans: Replace the shredded chicken with black beans for a vegetarian version. Make sure to rinse and drain the beans before adding them to the casserole.
Low Carb Version
- Low-Carb Chips: Instead of Nacho Doritos, use crushed pork rinds or a low-carb tortilla chip alternative to reduce the carb content of the dish.
Keto-Friendly Adjustment
- Cream Cheese Addition: Incorporate 8 ounces of softened cream cheese into the mixture for a richer, keto-friendly option that adds extra creaminess and flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned Rotel?
A: Yes, you can substitute diced fresh tomatoes for Rotel tomatoes. Adjust the seasoning to taste with additional chili powder or cumin.
Q: How spicy is this casserole?
A: The spice level can be adjusted by using mild taco seasoning and mild Rotel tomatoes. You can also omit the tomatoes if you prefer a milder dish.
Indulge in the delicious flavors and comforting textures of our Mexican White Trash casserole. This recipe is perfect for any occasion and is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Whether you’re craving a hearty meal or planning your next gathering, this casserole delivers on taste and ease of preparation. Enjoy the layers of cheesy goodness, crunchy Doritos, and zesty Rotel tomatoes in every bite. Embrace the simplicity and versatility of this classic dish and make it your own with creative toppings and adjustments. Bon appétit!