Mexican White Trash Casserole

This Mexican White Trash Casserole is the answer to busy weeknights when you want comfort food with a little flair. It has savory seasoned beef creamy refried beans tons of melty cheese and a layer of crispy tortilla chips all baked together. Top it your way and watch everyone race to the table

I first threw this together on a cold evening when my pantry looked scarce. My family devoured every crumb and now we make it for nearly every game night

Gather Your Ingredients

• Tortilla chips: These are the sturdy base and add a salty crunch. Look for thick cut chips that will hold up in baking
• Ground beef or turkey: Provides hearty protein. Choose 80 percent lean beef or an equally flavorful turkey for best results
• Taco seasoning: The secret to punchy flavor. Aim for a low sodium mix or make your own with cumin chili powder and garlic powder
• Salsa: Adds a tangy kick and moisture. Go for thick and chunky salsa either mild or spicy to fit your taste
• Refried beans: Creamy comfort that holds layers together. Use fat free for a lighter option or homemade if you have time
• Mexican blend cheese: Melts into every nook for gooeyness. Choose freshly shredded for best melt
• Sour cream Guacamole Diced tomatoes Black olives Green onions Cilantro: Fresh garnishes that cool contrast and boost flavor. Pick ripe tomatoes and bright green onions

How to Make It

Preheat and Prepare the Baking Dish:

Heat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease a nine by thirteen inch dish well so nothing sticks and cleanup is easy

Cook and Season the Meat:

Brown the ground beef or turkey over medium heat in a large skillet. Take your time until it is deeply browned for best flavor then pour off any extra fat. Sprinkle in the taco seasoning and stir in the salsa. Simmer for two to three minutes so the flavors meld

Build the First Layer:

Scatter half the crushed tortilla chips in your prepared dish. Layer the refried beans in big spoonfuls then gently spread so each chip gets some creamy bean coverage

Add the Meat:

Spoon half the seasoned meat mixture over the beans spreading it evenly with the back of the spoon for even bites

Top with Cheese:

Sprinkle with one cup of the shredded cheese covering the meat layer to lock in flavor as it bakes

Repeat the Layering:

Pour on the rest of the chips followed by the remaining beef mixture and the last cup of cheese

Bake the Casserole:

Bake uncovered for twenty to twenty five minutes until the cheese is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges. The chips will be slightly crisp on top and soft below for perfect texture

Cool and Garnish:

Let the casserole rest for five minutes so it sets. Finish with dollops of sour cream scoopfuls of guacamole fresh tomatoes sliced olives vibrant green onions and a good handful of cilantro

I always lean heavy on the cilantro because it brightens every bite. My kids love scooping their servings with extra chips and fighting over the crisp cheesy corners

Flavor Boosters

Try swapping in ground chicken or vegetarian crumbles instead of beef for variety. Mix pinto or black beans with some mashed potato for a creamy swap. Use cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese for a new flavor. Add roasted poblanos or pumpkin in the fall for an earthy note and finish with a squeeze of lime any time of year

Serving Suggestions

Bring this casserole to a party or make it a quick weeknight meal. It is perfect with a bright salad or Mexican style rice and extra toppings like jalapenos or lime wedges

Creative Twists

For summer, add fresh diced tomatoes and sweet corn. In cooler months, garnish with sliced radishes and lime. Assemble ahead and freeze before baking for a freezer meal option

This casserole is always a hit whether for a potluck or weeknight. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving so every slice holds together and stays delicious

Common Questions About This Recipe

→ What type of meat can I use?

Ground beef is traditional, but ground turkey works well for a lighter option.

→ Can I make it ahead of time?

Assemble in advance, but bake just before serving to keep the chips crisp.

→ What other toppings work well?

Try jalapeños, shredded lettuce, or extra salsa for added flavor and crunch.

→ Is it possible to make this vegetarian?

Omit the meat and add sautéed veggies or extra beans for a satisfying vegetarian version.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Cover and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to restore texture and flavor.