Mexican White Trash Casserole

Instructions:

1. Cook the Ground Meat:
   • Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef (or chicken) and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks.
   • Once the meat is cooked through, drain any excess fat, and season it with the taco seasoning according to the packet instructions. If you prefer a more customized seasoning, you can mix your own with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and salt.
2. Prepare the Sauce:
   • In a medium-sized bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies, sour cream, and half of the shredded cheese. Stir until everything is well mixed and creamy. Add salt and pepper to taste.
3. Assemble the Casserole:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of tortilla chips on the bottom. Break the chips into smaller pieces to create an even layer.
   • Top the chips with the cooked ground meat, spreading it evenly over the chips.
   • Pour the creamy sauce mixture over the meat, making sure it covers the entire dish.
   • Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese on top. If using, add the drained corn for an extra burst of flavor and color.
4. Bake the Casserole:
   • Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until it’s hot and bubbly.
   • Remove the foil and continue baking for another 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and golden brown.
5. Serve:
   • Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired, and serve hot.
6. Enjoy!
   • Serve this casserole on its own or with a side of guacamole, salsa, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Quick and Easy: This casserole comes together in under an hour, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers.
• Comforting and Hearty: With the combination of creamy soup, seasoned meat, cheese, and crunchy chips, this casserole is the ultimate comfort food.
• Customizable: You can easily swap out ingredients to fit your tastes. Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version, add extra veggies like bell peppers or black beans, or even switch to nacho cheese-flavored chips for a fun twist.
• Budget-Friendly: This recipe uses affordable ingredients, making it a great option for feeding a crowd without breaking the bank.

Variations:

• Vegetarian Version: Skip the meat entirely and use beans, corn, and more vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for a hearty vegetarian version.
• Spicy Kick: For an extra spicy version, add sliced jalapeños or a spoonful of hot sauce to the creamy sauce mixture.
• Extra Cheesy: If you’re a fan of cheese, feel free to add more cheese on top or mix in a different type of cheese like pepper jack for an added layer of flavor.

Conclusion:

The Mexican White Trash Casserole is the perfect combination of cheesy, creamy, and satisfying flavors all baked into one easy-to-make dish. It’s a great go-to meal for busy nights, casual family dinners, or even potlucks with friends. With its comforting texture, rich flavors, and the irresistible crunch of tortilla chips, this casserole will soon become a staple in your recipe rotation. Try it today, and watch it become an instant hit!