Mexican White Trash Casserole (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ Casserole foundation
01 -
1 bag (9–10 oz) tortilla chips, lightly crushed
02 -
1 pound ground beef or turkey
03 -
1 packet (about 1 oz) taco seasoning
04 -
1 cup salsa, any preferred heat
05 -
1 can (15 oz) refried beans
06 -
2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese, divided
→ Optional toppings for serving
07 -
Sour cream
08 -
Guacamole
09 -
Diced fresh tomatoes
10 -
Sliced black olives
11 -
Chopped green onions
12 -
Fresh cilantro leaves
# Instructions:
01 -
Preheat oven to 375°F. Lightly coat a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
02 -
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until completely browned and no longer pink, about 6–8 minutes. Drain excess grease, then stir in taco seasoning and salsa. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until flavors are well blended.
03 -
Spread half of the lightly crushed tortilla chips evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
04 -
Spoon refried beans over the chips and spread into an even layer. Top with half the seasoned beef mixture, distributing evenly.
05 -
Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded Mexican cheese blend over the beef layer. Add the remaining tortilla chips, then cover with the rest of the beef mixture and finish with the remaining 1 cup of cheese, ensuring full coverage.
06 -
Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes until cheese is fully melted, bubbly, and lightly golden at the edges.
07 -
Allow casserole to cool for about 5 minutes. Add desired toppings such as sour cream, guacamole, tomatoes, black olives, green onions, and cilantro. Serve warm.
# Notes:
01 -
For crispier texture, assemble with tortilla chips just before baking instead of letting them sit exposed. Use hot salsa or add chili flakes to increase spice level.