1. Prepare the Filling:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until it is browned and no longer pink, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
- Add Onions: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add Taco Seasoning: Stir in the taco seasoning and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the diced tomatoes with green chilies, black beans, corn, cream of chicken soup, and sour cream to the skillet. Stir to combine and cook until heated through, about 5 minutes.
2. Assemble the Casserole:
- Layer Chips: Spread half of the crushed tortilla chips evenly over the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Add Filling: Pour the beef mixture over the chips, spreading it out evenly.
- Top with Chips and Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining crushed tortilla chips over the top of the beef mixture. Evenly distribute the shredded cheese over the chips.
- Add Olives and Chilies: If using, sprinkle the sliced black olives and diced green chilies over the top.
3. Bake the Casserole:
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through.
4. Serve:
- Garnish: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro, sliced green onions, diced tomatoes, and additional sour cream if desired.
- Serve: Serve the Mexican White Trash casserole warm with your favorite toppings and enjoy!
Tips for Success:
- Taco Seasoning: You can use store-bought taco seasoning or make your own by combining chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and salt.
- Cream of Chicken Soup: If you prefer, you can substitute cream of mushroom soup or another creamy soup for a different flavor profile.
- Cheese: Feel free to use your favorite type of cheese. Pepper Jack, Colby Jack, or a blend of Mexican cheeses all work well.
- Make Ahead: This casserole can be assembled a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Add the final layer of chips and cheese just before baking.
Conclusion:
Mexican White Trash is a comforting and flavorful casserole that combines the best of Mexican and American cuisines. This dish is easy to make, customizable, and perfect for feeding a crowd. With its layers of seasoned beef, beans, corn, creamy soup, crunchy tortilla chips, and melty cheese, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Follow this detailed recipe to create a delicious Mexican White Trash casserole that will leave everyone asking for the recipe. Enjoy the bold flavors and comforting textures of this hearty dish!