Mexican White Trash Casserole

Introduction: Looking for a quick and hearty dish that’s packed with flavor and perfect for any family dinner or potluck? Look no further than Mexican White Trash Casserole. This simple yet satisfying casserole combines creamy, cheesy goodness with bold Mexican-inspired flavors. Made with accessible ingredients, it’s a great choice for busy weeknights when you want something filling and delicious. Let’s dive into the details of this easy-to-make casserole and how you can prepare it at home.

What is Mexican White Trash Casserole? Mexican White Trash Casserole is a comforting and indulgent dish that typically features a blend of seasoned chicken, creamy soup, corn tortillas, and a generous amount of cheese. Its name may sound quirky, but the combination of creamy, cheesy, and savory ingredients makes it a favorite in many households. It’s easy to prepare, making it a go-to meal for busy cooks who crave a home-cooked, satisfying dinner.

Ingredients You’ll Need: To make this delicious casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel)
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 6 to 8 corn tortillas, cut into strips
• 1 tablespoon taco seasoning (or homemade blend)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste

How to Make Mexican White Trash Casserole:

this recipe

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, diced tomatoes with green chilies, sour cream, taco seasoning, garlic powder, and half of the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese. Stir until everything is well combined. Taste and adjust seasonings with salt and pepper as needed.
3. Assemble the Casserole: Layer the bottom of your prepared baking dish with a few strips of corn tortillas. Spread half of the chicken mixture over the tortillas, and then sprinkle with some of the remaining cheese. Repeat the layering process, starting with the tortillas, followed by the chicken mixture and more cheese.
4. Bake the Casserole: Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake it in the preheated oven for about 25 to 30 minutes. Remove the foil, and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through.
5. Serve and Enjoy: Once out of the oven, let the casserole sit for a few minutes to cool slightly. Serve hot with your favorite toppings, such as chopped cilantro, sour cream, salsa, or guacamole.

Why You’ll Love This Mexican White Trash Casserole:

• Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and an easy assembly process, this casserole comes together in less than an hour.
• Flavorful: The combination of creamy soup, tangy sour cream, savory chicken, and melted cheese creates a comforting and flavorful dish.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite ingredients, such as black beans, corn, or bell peppers, to make the casserole even more hearty and nutritious.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This casserole keeps well and can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it a great option for meal prepping.

Serving Tips:

• Serve this casserole with a side of Mexican rice or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
• For a spicy kick, top with jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce.
• Pair with a chilled margarita or a refreshing soda for a fun family dinner.

Conclusion: Mexican White Trash Casserole is the perfect blend of simplicity and flavor. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing potluck dish, this casserole has you covered. With its creamy, cheesy filling and bold Mexican flavors, it’s sure to become a family favorite in no time. Try it today and enjoy a comforting, delicious meal that everyone will love!

Serving Tips for Mexican White Trash Casserole:

1. Toppings and Garnishes: Add fresh toppings to enhance the flavor and texture. Some popular options include:
   • Chopped fresh cilantro for a burst of color and freshness.
   • Sour cream or guacamole to balance the richness of the dish.
   • Salsa or sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
   • Shredded lettuce or a side of Mexican rice for a lighter side.
2. Side Dishes: This casserole pairs well with simple side dishes, such as:
   • Mexican rice or Spanish rice.
   • Refried beans or black beans for extra protein and fiber.
   • Grilled vegetables for a healthy addition.
   • Tortilla chips for crunch, or even as a way to scoop up the casserole.
3. Perfect for Potlucks and Family Dinners: This casserole makes an excellent dish to bring to gatherings. Its hearty and satisfying nature makes it ideal for feeding a crowd, and it’s easy to serve in large portions.

Storage Tips for Mexican White Trash Casserole:

1. Refrigeration:
   • Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep for up to 3 to 4 days.
   • To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual servings for a quick reheat.
2. Freezing:
   • You can freeze the casserole before or after baking. To freeze, assemble the casserole as usual, but do not bake it. Instead, wrap the dish tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 to 3 months.
   • When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40-50 minutes until hot and bubbly. If frozen after baking, you can reheat directly from the freezer, but it may take an extra 15-20 minutes.
3. Reheating Tips: If you’re reheating from the fridge or freezer, adding a small splash of milk or chicken broth can help keep the casserole moist, as the tortillas can absorb moisture during storage.

By following these serving and storage tips, you can enjoy your Mexican White Trash Casserole at its best, whether fresh from the oven or as leftovers!

1. Can I use beef or pork instead of chicken in this casserole?
   • Yes, you can easily swap the chicken for ground beef, ground turkey, or shredded pork. Just make sure to cook the meat before adding it to the casserole mixture. Ground beef or turkey adds a slightly different flavor, but it’s just as delicious.
2. Can I make Mexican White Trash Casserole ahead of time?
   • Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole up to a day ahead and store it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. If you freeze it, be sure to wrap it tightly and follow the freezing and reheating instructions to maintain its flavor and texture.
3. Is there a vegetarian version of this casserole?
   • Yes! To make a vegetarian version, you can substitute the chicken with a combination of black beans, corn, and bell peppers. You could also add extra cheese and top it with some fresh avocado or sour cream for added richness.
4. Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas?
   • While corn tortillas are typically used for their texture and flavor in this casserole, you can substitute with flour tortillas if preferred. Flour tortillas will become softer and a bit more chewy when baked, but they’ll still work well in the casserole.

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