Description
Hearty Mexican white trash casserole delivers comfort and zest in one delightful dish. Cheese, ground beef, and crispy chips combine for a quick family meal that satisfies cravings and warms hearts.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
Cheese:
- 1 ½ cups (170 g) shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 ½ cups (170 g) shredded Monterey Jack cheese
Base and Seasoning Ingredients:
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tablespoons homemade taco seasoning)
- ½ cup (120 ml) water
- 1 (10 oz / 280 g) can Rotel tomatoes (diced tomatoes with green chilies)
- 1 (10.5 oz / 300 g) can cream of chicken soup
- 1 (10.5 oz / 300 g) can cream of mushroom soup
- ½ cup (120 ml) sour cream
- 6 small flour or corn tortillas, cut into quarters
Garnish (optional):
- Sliced green onions
- Chopped cilantro
- Diced avocado
- Sour cream
Instructions
- Prepare the baking vessel by coating it with a thin layer of cooking spray and set the oven temperature to 350F (175C) for optimal heat distribution.
- In a robust skillet, transform the ground beef into a rich, browned foundation, carefully eliminating excess fat to ensure a lean mixture.
- Infuse the meat with zesty taco seasoning and a splash of water, allowing the flavors to meld and intensify during a brief 2-3 minute simmering session.
- Create a luxurious cream base by whisking together Rotel tomatoes, cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, and velvety sour cream until achieving a uniform, silky texture.
- Establish a foundational layer of the cream mixture across the baking dish, strategically positioning tortilla quarters to create a sturdy base.
- Construct alternating layers: distribute half the seasoned ground beef, generously spread half the cream mixture, and lavishly sprinkle a combination of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses.
- Replicate the layering process, ensuring the final surface is adorned with a blanket of melty cheese.
- Shield the casserole with aluminum foil, allowing it to bake for 20 minutes, then unveil and continue baking until the cheese transforms into a golden, bubbling masterpiece.
- Allow the casserole a brief resting period, then embellish with optional garnishes like verdant green onions, fragrant cilantro, creamy avocado, or a dollop of sour cream.
Notes
- Check meat browning carefully to prevent burning and ensure even cooking throughout the skillet.
- Drain ground beef thoroughly to reduce excess grease and keep the casserole from becoming too oily.
- Adjust taco seasoning intensity by using less or selecting mild versions for sensitive palates.
- Layer tortillas evenly to create consistent texture and prevent dry or soggy sections in the dish.
- Experiment with low-fat soup options and reduced-fat cheese for a lighter, healthier version.
- Use ground turkey or plant-based meat alternatives for those wanting lower-fat protein choices.
- Enhance flavor by adding diced green chiles or jalapeños for extra spice and depth.
- Cover with foil during initial baking to prevent cheese from burning and maintain moisture.
- Allow casserole to rest briefly after baking to help layers set and make serving easier.
- Optional toppings like fresh salsa or guacamole can add brightness and freshness to the final dish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Lunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 950 mg
- Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 22 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg