This delightful Mexican White Trash Casserole is a cheesy, comforting dish that combines the bold flavors of Tex-Mex cuisine with the ease of a quick casserole. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends and family. The combination of shredded chicken, creamy soup, and the crunch of Doritos creates a unique texture and taste that makes this casserole unforgettable.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This casserole is a crowd-pleaser, packed with flavor and simplicity. The use of Nacho Doritos not only adds a satisfying crunch but also infuses the dish with a delightful cheesy flavor. Additionally, it requires minimal effort to prepare, making it ideal for those hectic days when you still want a home-cooked meal. Plus, it’s versatile—feel free to customize it by adding your favorite ingredients like beans, corn, or jalapeños for an extra kick!
Introduction
Casseroles are a go-to option for many home cooks, and this Mexican White Trash Casserole exemplifies the genre’s best qualities: heartiness, comfort, and ease of preparation. This recipe leverages common pantry staples and elevates them with a twist of Mexican flair. The layers of flavor—from the succulent shredded chicken to the vibrant Ro’tel tomatoes and creamy cheese—come together to create a dish that is both filling and satisfying. Whether you are serving it at a potluck or enjoying it on a cozy movie night, this casserole is sure to become a favorite in your home.
Ingredients:
- 1 bag of Nacho Doritos, crushed
- 2 cups shredded chicken 🍗
- 2 cups shredded cheese 🧀
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 can Ro’tel tomatoes (with diced green chilies) 🍅
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup milk 🥛
- ½ package taco seasoning 🌮
Preparation:
Step 1:
Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 2-quart casserole dish thoroughly to prevent sticking.
Step 2:
Mix the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, Ro’tel tomatoes, sour cream, milk, and taco seasoning. Stir everything together until well combined, ensuring there are no lumps.
Step 3:
Layer the Casserole: Begin by spreading half of the crushed Doritos evenly across the bottom of the greased casserole dish. Next, spoon half of the chicken mixture on top of the Doritos, ensuring an even distribution. Repeat this process with the remaining Doritos and chicken mixture, layering them accordingly.
Step 4:
Top with Cheese: If desired, sprinkle the shredded cheese generously over the top of the casserole. This addition not only enhances the flavor but also adds a deliciously cheesy crust once baked.
Step 5:
Bake: Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 35 minutes, then carefully remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Cooking Note:
For an extra crispy top, you can broil the casserole for 1-2 minutes at the end of cooking. Just keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
Serving Suggestions:
Let the casserole cool for about 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad, guacamole, or a dollop of sour cream on top. For a bit of added freshness, consider garnishing with chopped cilantro or sliced green onions.
Tips:
- Make it Spicy: If you love heat, add chopped jalapeños or use spicy taco seasoning.
- Use Leftover Chicken: This is a fantastic way to use up leftover rotisserie chicken, saving you time and effort.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the shredded chicken with black beans or corn for a vegetarian alternative.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Reheat portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Time Information:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 450 per serving (based on 8 servings)
- Protein: 24g
- Sodium: 780mg
Conclusion
The Mexican White Trash Casserole is an excellent dish that consolidates the joys of Tex-Mex cuisine with the convenience of a casserole. Its layers of delightful flavors and textures make it the perfect comfort food for any occasion. With minimal prep time and delicious results, this recipe will surely find a regular spot in your meal rotation.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Assemble it, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge. - What if I don’t have Nacho Doritos?
You can substitute with any flavor of Doritos or even tortilla chips for a similar crunch. - How many servings does this recipe make?
The recipe serves about 8 people, but serving sizes may vary based on appetite. - Can I add vegetables to the casserole?
Absolutely! Feel free to add cooked corn, bell peppers, or beans for extra nutrition and flavor. - Is this dish suitable for freezing?
Yes! After cooking and cooling, you can freeze the casserole for up to three months. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container.
