What is white trash casserole?

It’s a casual term for a comforting baked dish made with pantry staples like canned soup, cheese, meat, and crunchy toppings like chips or tater tots. This Mexican white trash casserole adds bold taco-inspired flavor to the classic version.

Is this casserole spicy?

Not by default. It has a mild taco seasoning flavor, but you can spice it up with jalapeños, hot salsa, or spicy cheese. It’s easily customizable for different heat levels.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes! Freeze before or after baking. If baked, let it cool first. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat from frozen in the oven at 375°F until hot and bubbling.

Can it be made ahead?

Absolutely. Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate up to 48 hours before baking. You can also freeze it unbaked and pop it straight into the oven when ready.

Mexican White Trash Casserole – Ultimate Cheesy Comfort (6-Ingredient Recipe)

Name: Mexican White Trash Casserole
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Ingredients: 3 cups shredded cooked chicken; 1 can cream of chicken soup; 1 cup sour cream; 1 packet taco seasoning; 1 can diced green chiles (4 oz); 1 cup black beans (optional); 1 cup corn kernels (optional); 3 cups crushed tortilla chips; 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend; 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (optional); 1/4 cup sliced jalapeños (optional)

Description

A creamy, spicy, cheesy Tex-Mex-style casserole made with shredded chicken, taco seasoning, and crunchy tortilla chips. Perfect for family dinners or make-ahead meals.

Ingredients

3 cups shredded cooked chicken

1 can cream of chicken soup

1 cup sour cream

1 packet taco seasoning

1 can diced green chiles (4 oz)

1 cup black beans (optional)

1 cup corn kernels (optional)

3 cups crushed tortilla chips

2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend

1/2 cup diced tomatoes (optional)

1/4 cup sliced jalapeños (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. In a large bowl, mix soup, sour cream, taco seasoning, and green chiles.

3. Add chicken and any optional mix-ins like beans, corn, or tomatoes. Stir to combine.

4. Layer half the crushed chips in a 9×13 baking dish.

5. Spread half the chicken mixture over chips and top with 1 cup of cheese.

6. Repeat layers with remaining chips, chicken mixture, and cheese.

7. Top with jalapeños if using.

8. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 10 minutes until golden and bubbly.

9. Let sit 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

You can substitute ground beef or turkey for chicken. This casserole freezes well and can be baked directly from frozen. Adjust spice by using mild or hot taco seasoning and omitting jalapeños if preferred.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 420
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 870mg
Fat: 26g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Unsaturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 22g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 26g
Cholesterol: 90mg