Mexican White Trash Casserole: A Cheesy, Flavor-Packed Recipe

Prep Time 20 mins
Cook Time 30 mins
Total Time 50 mins
Ratings: 5 from 2 votes
Cooking Temp: 350  F
Servings: 4
Estimated Cost: $  10
Calories: 420
Best Season: Fall, Winter
Description

Hearty, cheesy, and unapologetically indulgent, Mexican White Trash Casserole is comfort food at its boldest. This crowd-pleasing dish layers juicy shredded chicken, creamy soups, spicy green chilies, and crunchy tortilla chips—all smothered in melted cheese. It’s the kind of casserole that skips the fuss but delivers big Tex-Mex flavor in every bite. Perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or when you just need something delicious and filling, this no-frills recipe is a cheesy tribute to the joy of feel-good, down-home cooking with a kick.

Ingredients
    Protein Base
  • 1 lb ground beef (or substitute with ground turkey or shredded chicken)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 packet taco seasoning
    • Sauce & Flavoring
  • 1 can Rotel tomatoes with green chilies (10 oz)
  • 1 can cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz)
  • 1/2 cup sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt for a tangy kick)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
    • Crunchy Layers & Cheese
  • 2 cups crushed tortilla chips (or Doritos for extra flavor)
  • 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Colby Jack)
  • 1/2 cup queso dip
Instructions
  1. 1
    Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. 2
    Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula.
  3. 3
    Drain excess fat, then stir in the chopped onion and garlic. Cook for 2 more minutes.
  4. 4
    Sprinkle in the taco seasoning and mix well
  5. 5
    In a bowl, whisk together Rotel tomatoes, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and black pepper.
  6. 6
    Pour the sauce into the skillet with the seasoned meat, stirring to combine.
  7. 7
    Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  8. 8
    Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
  9. 9
    Layer half of the crushed tortilla chips at the bottom.
  10. 10
    Pour half of the meat mixture over the chips.
  11. 11
    Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheese.
  12. 12
    Repeat the layers: remaining chips, remaining meat mixture, and another cup of cheese.
  13. 13
    Bake uncovered for 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  14. 14
    Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
  15. 15
    Garnish with jalapeños, cilantro, diced avocado, and lime wedges.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 4

Serving Size 1

Amount Per Serving
Calories 420kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 22g34%
Total Carbohydrate 30g10%
Dietary Fiber 4g16%
Sugars 3g
Protein 15g30%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.