Mexican White Trash Casserole

### Instructions

Let’s get started on making this simple and flavorful casserole:

#### **Step 1: Prepare the Ground Beef**

In a large skillet, brown the **ground beef** over medium heat. Break it apart with a spatula as it cooks to ensure it cooks evenly. Once browned, drain any excess fat.

Add the **taco seasoning** to the cooked beef, along with the recommended amount of water (usually about 1/4 cup, but check the seasoning packet). Stir and let the beef simmer until the seasoning is fully absorbed and the beef is well-coated with flavor. If you’re using **Rotel tomatoes**, add them to the skillet at this stage and stir to combine.

#### **Step 2: Mix the Casserole Ingredients**

In a large mixing bowl, combine the **cream of chicken soup**, **sour cream**, and **salsa**. Stir until smooth. Then, add in the cooked, seasoned ground beef mixture and **1 1/2 cups of shredded cheese**. Mix everything until well combined.

#### **Step 3: Assemble the Casserole**

Preheat your oven to **350°F (175°C)**.

Now it’s time to assemble the casserole. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spread half of the crushed **tortilla chips** evenly across the bottom. Then, pour the beef and cream mixture over the chips, spreading it out to cover them completely.

Top the casserole with the remaining crushed tortilla chips. Sprinkle the remaining **1/2 cup of cheese** over the top, ensuring an even layer for that melty, cheesy finish.

#### **Step 4: Bake**

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for **25-30 minutes**, or until the top is golden and bubbly. The cheese should be fully melted, and the casserole should be hot throughout.

#### **Step 5: Garnish and Serve**

Once your casserole is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. If desired, garnish with **fresh cilantro**, **sliced green onions**, or a dollop of **sour cream**. Serve warm, and watch as your family or guests dig in!

### Why This Recipe Works

– **Taco Flavors**: The ground beef, taco seasoning, and salsa give this casserole all the delicious flavors of your favorite taco night, without the need for tortillas.
– **Creamy and Cheesy**: The combination of **sour cream**, **cream of chicken soup**, and melted cheese creates a creamy, indulgent base that pairs perfectly with the crunch of the tortilla chips.
– **Crunchy Topping**: The crushed tortilla chips add a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling. It’s the perfect texture balance!
– **Simple Ingredients**: With just a few pantry staples, you can whip up a satisfying meal in no time. The convenience and simplicity of this dish make it a go-to when you’re looking for something quick but delicious.

### Variations and Customizations

– **Spice it Up**: If you love heat, use **spicy salsa** or **jalapeños** for an extra kick. You can also add **chopped green chilies** or **hot sauce** to the beef mixture to dial up the spice level.
– **Add Veggies**: For extra nutrition and flavor, add vegetables like **corn**, **black beans**, or **chopped bell peppers**. These additions will complement the other ingredients while adding color and texture.
– **Use Different Proteins**: Swap out the ground beef for **ground chicken**, **ground turkey**, or even **shredded rotisserie chicken** for a lighter, yet still flavorful, version.
– **Gluten-Free**: If you’re gluten-free, replace the tortilla chips with **gluten-free tortilla chips** or use **corn tortillas** as a base. Just be sure to check the labels of your ingredients for any hidden gluten.

### Conclusion

The **Mexican White Trash Casserole** is a comforting, cheesy, and flavor-packed dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for dinner, taking it to a potluck, or feeding a hungry crowd, this casserole will never disappoint. With its easy preparation, customizable ingredients, and mouthwatering flavors, it’s a recipe that will quickly become a family favorite.

So, next time you’re craving something hearty and delicious but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen, give this **Mexican White Trash Casserole** a try. It’s sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation!