Mexican White Trash Casserole is a quick and hearty dish that combines the bold flavors of nacho cheese, sour cream, and savory chicken or ground beef. This easy-to-make casserole uses crushed Doritos as the base, adding a crispy crunch to each bite. With minimal ingredients and only a few steps, it’s perfect for busy nights or casual gatherings. This cheesy, flavorful casserole is sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients
- 1 bag of Nacho Doritos, crushed
- 2 cups shredded chicken or ground beef
- 2 cups shredded cheese (more if desired)
- 1 can (10.75 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 can Rotel tomatoes, undrained
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Directions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the crushed Doritos and shredded chicken or ground beef. Add the shredded cheese, cream of chicken soup, Rotel tomatoes (with juice), and sour cream. Stir until everything is well mixed.
- Assemble the Casserole: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden.
- Cool and Serve: Let the casserole cool slightly before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 6
Variations
- Spicy Version: Add sliced jalapeños or a can of diced green chilies for a spicy kick.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the meat with black beans or a mix of vegetables like bell peppers, corn, and zucchini.
- Extra Crunch: Add a layer of crushed tortilla chips or extra Doritos on top before baking for even more crunch.
- More Cheese: Top the casserole with extra shredded cheese in the last 5 minutes of baking for an extra cheesy layer.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until heated through.
10 FAQs
- Can I use different types of chips? Yes, you can use other flavored chips like Cool Ranch Doritos or plain tortilla chips, though the flavor will change slightly.
- Can I use a different type of meat? Yes, ground turkey, pork, or even shrimp can be used in place of chicken or ground beef.
- Is this casserole spicy? The level of spice depends on the Rotel tomatoes used. If you prefer a milder dish, you can use regular Rotel tomatoes or a can of diced tomatoes instead.
- Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Just bake it when you’re ready to eat.
- Can I freeze the casserole? Yes, this casserole freezes well. Just cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
- How can I make this casserole more filling? Add more vegetables, such as corn, bell peppers, or onions, to make it heartier and healthier.
- Can I use a different type of soup? Yes, you can substitute cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup for the cream of chicken soup.
- What if I don’t have sour cream? You can use Greek yogurt or heavy cream as a substitute for sour cream.
- Can I double this recipe? Yes, simply double the ingredients and bake it in a larger dish or two separate 9×13 inch baking dishes.
- How can I make it less greasy? You can use lean ground beef or chicken breast instead of fatty ground beef to reduce the grease.
Conclusion
Mexican White Trash Casserole is an easy, cheesy, and incredibly satisfying dish. Whether you’re feeding a hungry crowd or looking for a quick weeknight meal, this casserole delivers. The crunchy Doritos provide a unique twist, and the creamy filling is packed with flavor. It’s a versatile recipe that you can customize to your taste and is sure to please anyone at the table.