Mexican White Trash is a fun, flavorful casserole that combines all your favorite Mexican-inspired ingredients into one delicious, cheesy dish. With layers of seasoned ground beef, chili beans, cheese, and crunchy corn chips, topped off with sour cream and salsa, it’s a crowd-pleasing meal that’s quick to make and sure to satisfy. This recipe is perfect for a casual dinner, potluck, or game day gathering!

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
1 (1.25 ounce) package taco seasoning mix
1 (16 ounce) can chili beans
2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese
1 (16 ounce) package corn chips
1 (8 ounce) container sour cream
1 (16 ounce) jar salsa

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until no longer pink. Drain excess fat.
Stir in the taco seasoning mix and chili beans. Mix until well combined and heated through.
In a 9×13-inch baking dish, layer the following: first, a layer of corn chips, followed by the beef mixture, and then a generous layer of shredded Cheddar cheese.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Remove from the oven and top with sour cream and salsa before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

Add Veggies: You can add diced bell peppers, onions, or corn to the beef mixture for extra flavor and nutrition.
Spicy Kick: For a spicier version, add chopped jalapeños or a can of diced green chilies to the beef mixture.
Different Meat: Try using ground turkey or chicken as a leaner alternative to ground beef.
Cheese Options: Use a blend of cheeses such as Monterey Jack, Mexican cheese blend, or Pepper Jack for a different flavor.

Storage and Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave for individual portions or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

10 FAQs

Can I use a different type of bean?
Yes, you can swap chili beans for pinto beans, black beans, or kidney beans, depending on your preference.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time, cover it, and refrigerate it. When ready to bake, just pop it in the oven for 30-40 minutes.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, this dish freezes well. Assemble the casserole but do not bake it. Cover tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen for about 40-45 minutes.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, you can substitute the ground beef with crumbled tofu, tempeh, or a meat alternative like Beyond Meat for a vegetarian version.
What if I don’t have taco seasoning?
You can make your own taco seasoning by combining chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and a pinch of salt.
Can I use homemade salsa instead of jarred salsa?
Yes, homemade salsa will work great in this recipe. Just make sure it’s well-drained to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.
How can I make this spicier?
Add more chili powder, diced jalapeños, or a few dashes of hot sauce to the beef mixture to give the dish a spicier kick.
Can I use a different type of chips?
Yes, feel free to use tortilla chips, nacho chips, or even baked chips for a lighter option.
What can I serve this with?
Serve this dish with a side of Mexican rice, a simple salad, or extra guacamole and salsa for added flavor.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, simply make sure to use gluten-free corn chips and verify that the taco seasoning and salsa are gluten-free.

Conclusion

Mexican White Trash is an easy-to-make casserole that delivers big flavor with minimal effort. It’s a comfort food favorite, packed with the delicious taste of seasoned beef, cheesy goodness, and crunchy corn chips, all topped with sour cream and salsa. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish for a gathering, this recipe is a winner every time. Try it out and enjoy this flavorful Tex-Mex creation!