Introduction

When I first tried making the Mexican White Trash Casserole, I wasn’t quite sure what to expect, but I knew it was going to be a hit. The combination of creamy ingredients with a crunchy Dorito crust was an instant crowd-pleaser, and my family devoured it. It’s the kind of casserole that’s perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or a quick dinner with leftovers that taste just as good. Even my picky eaters loved it, and I’ve made it a staple in my meal rotation. The hearty layers, bold flavors, and simplicity of preparation make it a perfect dish for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Mexican White Trash Casserole

Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time, this casserole comes together quickly for a delicious meal.
Packed with Flavor: The blend of creamy chicken, cheesy goodness, and crunchy Doritos creates a satisfying bite every time.
Kid-Friendly: It’s a perfect meal for kids, thanks to its mild flavors and fun crunchy topping.
Budget-Friendly: Made with pantry staples, this casserole is an affordable option for families.
Customizable: You can tweak the ingredients to suit your preferences, such as adding extra veggies or changing the protein.

Ingredients

For the Casserole:

1 bag Nacho Doritos, crushed
2 cups shredded chicken
2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
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

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 2-quart casserole dish with non-stick cooking spray or a small amount of butter.

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 well until everything is well incorporated and the mixture has a creamy consistency.

Step 3: Layer the Casserole

Spread half of the crushed Doritos evenly at the bottom of the prepared casserole dish.
Pour half of the chicken mixture on top of the chips and spread it evenly.
Repeat the layers, adding the remaining crushed Doritos and chicken mixture.
Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly on top if you desire an extra cheesy casserole.

Step 4: Bake

Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes.
In the last 10 minutes of baking, remove the foil to allow the top to become crispy and golden.

Step 5: Serve

Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving to avoid burns and allow it to set.
Scoop out portions and enjoy this creamy, cheesy, and crunchy dish!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6-8
Calories per Serving: Approximately 400-450 calories (based on serving size)

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

How to Serve

This casserole is perfect on its own but can be paired with various sides and accompaniments. Here are some ideas:

Serve with a Side Salad: A simple green salad with ranch or Italian dressing complements the richness of the casserole.
Tortilla Chips: Extra chips on the side for dipping will enhance the crunch factor.
Guacamole and Salsa: These fresh dips add a nice contrast to the creamy casserole.
Rice: Serve with seasoned rice for a more filling meal.
Mexican Corn: A side of Mexican street corn or sweet corn adds extra flavor and a sweet touch.

Additional Tips

Use Rotisserie Chicken: For a shortcut, use store-bought rotisserie chicken instead of cooking your own. It adds great flavor and saves time.
Add Veggies: You can mix in some diced bell peppers, onions, or even black beans to add more texture and flavor to the casserole.
Make It Spicy: If you like heat, add a can of diced jalapeños or use spicy Ro’tel tomatoes.
Use Different Chips: If you want to switch things up, try using Cool Ranch Doritos or even tortilla chips for a different flavor profile.
Top with Sour Cream: Serve each portion with a dollop of sour cream or guacamole for extra creaminess and flavor.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use a different kind of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute the shredded cheddar with any cheese you prefer, such as Monterey Jack or a Mexican cheese blend.

2. Can I use ground beef instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Ground beef or turkey can be used as a substitute for the shredded chicken. Just cook it first and drain the fat.

3. Is this casserole spicy?
The spice level depends on the type of Ro’tel tomatoes you use. If you want less spice, opt for the mild version.

4. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it the night before and store it in the fridge. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.

5. Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. To reheat, bake at 350°F for 30-40 minutes or until hot throughout.

6. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or in the oven.

7. Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, replace the chicken with beans, vegetables, or a meat substitute like plant-based chicken.

8. What can I serve with this casserole?
This dish pairs well with salads, chips, rice, or any of your favorite Mexican sides like guacamole or salsa.

9. Can I use homemade taco seasoning?
Of course! Homemade taco seasoning can be used instead of the store-bought version.

10. Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
Yes, check the ingredients for gluten-free labels, particularly the Doritos, or opt for a gluten-free tortilla chip.

Conclusion

The Mexican White Trash Casserole is a fun, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that will quickly become a favorite in your household. With its layers of cheesy, creamy goodness and the crunch of Doritos, it’s a comforting meal that appeals to both kids and adults alike. Whether you’re feeding a hungry crowd or looking for a simple weeknight dinner, this casserole hits all the right notes. Add your favorite twist to make it your own and enjoy the rave reviews as your family and friends dig in!