Mexican White Trash Casserole with Cheesy Beef

Mexican White Trash Casserole with Cheesy Beef is a hearty, comforting meal that transforms simple ingredients into a satisfying family-friendly dish. Packed with seasoned beef, crunchy chips, creamy sauces, and melted cheese, it delivers bold flavor with effortless preparation. This casserole is perfect for busy weeknights, casual gatherings, or anytime you want a crowd-pleasing dinner that requires minimal fuss. The aroma of seasoned beef and bubbling cheese as it bakes brings warmth to the kitchen and appetites to the table. Every forkful blends savory meat, tangy salsa, and crisp tortilla chips — offering texture and flavor in every bite. Whether you serve it with fresh toppings or enjoy it straight from the oven, this casserole is both indulgent and easy to love. Even home cooks new to Mexican-inspired flavors will find this recipe approachable and delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich cheesy layers with hearty seasoned beef
• Quick prep with everyday pantry ingredients
• Perfect for feeding a crowd or family meal
• Great served with fresh toppings
• Comforting Tex-Mex flavors everyone enjoys

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp taco seasoning
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• ½ tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup salsa (medium or hot)
• 1 (10 oz / 283 g) can diced tomatoes with green chiles
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 ½ cups sour cream
• 1 (8 oz / 227 g) bag tortilla chips, slightly crushed
• ¼ cup sliced black olives (optional)
• 2 green onions, sliced
• Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

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How to Make Mexican White Trash Casserole with Cheesy Beef

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
• In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until no longer pink, breaking it up as it cooks.
• Add diced onion and minced garlic to the beef and sauté until fragrant and softened.
• Sprinkle taco seasoning, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper into the skillet, stirring to coat the beef evenly.
• Pour in salsa and diced tomatoes with green chiles, simmering briefly until the mixture is well combined.
• Remove skillet from heat and stir in sour cream until creamy and blended.
• Spread a layer of slightly crushed tortilla chips on the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
• Pour half of the beef mixture over the chips, spreading it evenly.
• Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top of the beef layer.
• Add another layer of crushed chips, then pour the remaining beef mixture over top.
• Finish with remaining cheddar cheese and optional black olives scattered over the surface.
• Bake in preheated oven until cheese is melted and bubbly, about 15–20 minutes.
• Garnish with sliced green onions and fresh cilantro before serving.

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 6–8
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Course: Main

Flavor Profile Breakdown

• Savory seasoned beef with Tex-Mex spices
• Tangy salsa and tomatoes with green chile heat
• Creamy sour cream for rich texture
• Crunchy tortilla chips contrasted with gooey cheese
• Fresh brightness from green onions and cilantro

Pro Tips for Best Results

• Break up tortilla chips lightly — too fine and they lose texture.
• Use your favorite salsa heat level to tailor spice.
• Don’t overcook beef — tender texture enhances comfort.
• Freshly shred cheese for better melt and flavor.
• Let casserole rest a few minutes before serving.

Variations & Substitutions

• Add black beans or corn for extra heartiness.
• Swap cheddar for pepper jack for a spicy kick.
• Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for lighter texture.
• Add jalapeño slices for heat lovers.
• Replace ground beef with turkey or chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Crushing chips too finely — keeps crunch intact.
• Using low-fat sour cream — full-fat gives creamier results.
• Skipping seasoning — ensures depth of flavor.
• Overbaking — cheese becomes dry instead of gooey.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with fresh avocado or guacamole.
• Offer a side of Mexican rice or beans.
• Top with pico de gallo, lime wedges, and cilantro.
• Pair with crisp green salad.
• Enjoy with tortilla chips and salsa on the side.

Storage & Reheating Tips

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge up to 3 days.
• Reheat in oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
• Microwave for a quick option, but cheese may become less creamy.
• Freeze leftover portions (without fresh toppings) up to 1 month; thaw before reheating.

Nutrition Information (Approximate)

Calories: 480 kcal
Protein: 25 g
Carbohydrates: 30 g
Fat: 28 g
Fiber: 3 g
Sugar: 4 g
Sodium: 780 mg

Final Thoughts

Mexican White Trash Casserole with Cheesy Beef delivers big flavor with minimal effort. It’s an ideal comfort food that’s satisfying, customizable, and perfect for weeknights or laid-back get-togethers. Every bite combines tender seasoned meat, creamy sauce, crunchy chips, and gooey cheese — a combination that’s hard to resist.

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FAQs

What is Mexican White Trash Casserole?
It’s a comforting Tex-Mex casserole layered with seasoned ground beef, creamy sauce, tortilla chips, and melted cheese.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes — you can assemble it and refrigerate before baking, then bake when ready.

How spicy is this dish?
Spice level depends on salsa choice; use mild salsa for subtle heat or hot salsa for more kick.

Can I use corn chips instead of tortilla chips?
Yes — corn chips add extra crunch and great flavor contrast.

Is there a vegetarian version?
Substitute seasoned beans or plant-based meat and use dairy or non-dairy cheese.