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This hearty Mexican White Trash Casserole transforms simple ingredients into a comforting dish that has saved countless busy weeknights at my table. The combination of crunchy Doritos, savory meat, and creamy taco-spiced sauce creates a deliciously indulgent meal that everyone fights over.
I first created this casserole when unexpected guests showed up during a football game and needed to stretch my ingredients. Now it's requested at every family gathering and potluck I attend. The looks on people's faces when they take their first bite never gets old.
Ingredients
- One bag Nacho Doritos crushed: These provide the perfect crunchy base and bold flavor foundation. Choose the classic nacho cheese variety for authentic flavor.
- Two cups shredded chicken or ground beef: Provides hearty protein that absorbs the taco flavors beautifully. Rotisserie chicken works wonderfully for a time-saver.
- Two cups shredded cheese or more if desired: Creates that irresistible gooey texture. A Mexican blend offers the best melt and flavor, but cheddar works great too.
- One can cream of chicken soup: Delivers creamy richness and binds everything together. The condensed version creates the perfect consistency.
- One can Rotel tomatoes undrained: Adds acidity, flavor and a touch of heat. The juice provides essential moisture for the casserole.
- Half cup sour cream: Contributes tanginess and creaminess. Full-fat creates the best texture but light works in a pinch.
- Half cup milk: Thins the sauce to the perfect consistency. Whole milk gives the richest results.
- Half package taco seasoning or more to taste: Infuses authentic Mexican flavors throughout. Look for low-sodium if watching salt intake.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Turn your oven to 350°F and grab your 9x13 baking dish. I like to give it a light coating of cooking spray to ensure easy serving later. The right temperature is crucial for melting the cheese properly without burning the chips.
- Create the Creamy Base:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine your cream of chicken soup, Rotel tomatoes with their juice, sour cream, milk, and taco seasoning. Whisk everything together until you have a smooth, well-blended sauce. Take a quick taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. This mixture should have a pourable consistency but not be too thin.
- Layer Building Time:
- Start by evenly spreading half of your crushed Doritos across the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Press them down slightly to create a stable base. Next, distribute all of your protein evenly over the chips. Whether using shredded chicken or browned ground beef, make sure it's spread in an even layer for consistent flavor in every bite.
Pour the creamy sauce mixture slowly over the meat, ensuring it seeps down and around all the ingredients. Use a spatula to spread it evenly if needed. Add a generous cup of shredded cheese over this layer, distributing it evenly for that perfect cheese pull later.
Top with your remaining crushed Doritos, creating a second crunchy layer. Finish with the rest of your cheese, covering the entire surface for that golden, bubbly crust everyone fights over. - Baking Magic:
- Cover your casserole loosely with aluminum foil. This prevents the top from browning too quickly while allowing the inside to heat thoroughly. Bake covered for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and continue baking for about 10 more minutes. Watch for that perfect moment when the cheese is completely melted, bubbling at the edges, and developing golden spots.
- Rest and Garnish:
- Allow your masterpiece to rest for 5 minutes before serving. This setting time helps the layers hold together when you cut into it. If desired, add fresh garnishes just before serving like extra sour cream, diced fresh tomatoes, sliced green onions, or chopped cilantro for color and freshness.
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The Rotel tomatoes are truly the secret ingredient in this casserole. I once made it without them when I couldn't get to the store, and while still good, it lacked that special tangy zip that makes everyone ask for the recipe. My husband now makes sure we always have a few cans in the pantry specifically for this dish.
Make-Ahead Options
This casserole is the perfect candidate for meal prep. You can assemble everything up to the baking step, cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply remove from the refrigerator while the oven preheats, and add about 10 minutes to the covered baking time. The Doritos will soften slightly but still provide texture and flavor.
Smart Substitutions
This recipe welcomes adaptation based on what you have on hand. Ground turkey or plant-based crumbles work perfectly in place of beef or chicken. For a vegetarian version, double the beans and add sautéed bell peppers and corn. If Rotel tomatoes aren't available, substitute a can of diced tomatoes plus a small can of diced green chiles. Cream of mushroom soup works beautifully if you're out of cream of chicken.
Serving Suggestions
While delicious on its own, this casserole pairs wonderfully with simple sides. I like to serve it with a crisp green salad dressed with lime vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For a complete fiesta, add Mexican rice, refried beans, or a bowl of guacamole and extra chips on the side. For a special touch, set out a toppings bar with sliced jalapeños, diced avocado, chopped cilantro, and lime wedges.
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The Story Behind The Name
The playful name "Mexican White Trash Casserole" comes from its humble ingredients and unpretentious preparation. While the name might raise eyebrows, it's become a term of endearment for this type of comfort food that prioritizes accessibility and flavor over fanciness. In my family, the more unusual or quirky the recipe name, the more likely it is to become a beloved favorite. This casserole proves that extraordinary flavor can come from ordinary ingredients when combined with a little creativity.