Mexican White Trash Casserole Recipe
A cheesy, crunchy Tex-Mex casserole layered with meat, beans, and tortilla chips.
Ingredients
- Tortilla chips 1 bag 9–10 oz, lightly crushed Forms the first crunchy layer
- Ground beef or turkey 1 pound For a lighter option use turkey
- Taco seasoning 1 packet about 1 oz Adds classic Tex-Mex flavor
- Salsa 1 cup Adjust heat level to preference
- Refried beans 1 can 15 oz Smooth layer
- Shredded Mexican blend cheese 2 cups divided Half for layers, half for topping
- Sour cream As desired Optional topping
- Guacamole As desired Optional topping
- Diced fresh tomatoes As desired Optional topping
- Sliced black olives As desired Optional topping
- Chopped green onions As desired Optional topping
- Fresh cilantro leaves As desired Optional topping
Instructions
- Build the foundation Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread half of the crushed tortilla chips evenly on the bottom to form the first crunchy layer.
- Brown and season the meat In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or turkey until fully browned. Drain any excess fat, then stir in taco seasoning and salsa. Simmer for 2 minutes to allow flavors to combine.
- Layer the casserole Spread the refried beans evenly over the tortilla chips. Add half of the cooked meat mixture on top of the beans. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheese over the meat. Repeat layers with remaining tortilla chips, meat, and cheese.
- Bake Place the casserole in the preheated oven. Bake for 20–25 minutes, until the cheese melts and edges turn golden.
- Top and serve Let the casserole cool for a few minutes. Add optional toppings such as sour cream, guacamole, diced tomatoes, black olives, green onions, and cilantro. Serve warm with a creamy interior and crispy edges.