Mexican White Trash Casserole

This Mexican White Trash Casserole is everything you want in a comfort food dish—crunchy, cheesy, spicy, and just a little indulgent. Layers of crushed tortilla chips, savory seasoned beef, creamy beans, and melted cheese come together in one hearty bake, topped off with all your favorite Tex-Mex garnishes. It’s a crowd-pleaser, whether you’re hosting a casual weeknight dinner, a game day gathering, or just want leftovers that reheat beautifully.

This is one of those recipes passed down and passed around at potlucks—the kind everyone asks for. And while the name may be quirky, the flavor is seriously good. My grandmother used to call it her “lazy-day nacho bake,” and I’ve been making it ever since—with my own flavorful twist.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Layered Casserole: Minimal prep with maximum flavor.
• Family Favorite: Loved by kids and adults alike.
• Freezer-Friendly: Assemble ahead and bake later.
• Customizable Toppings: Make it as bold or mild as you want.
• Comfort Food Classic: Cheesy, crunchy, and satisfying.

Ingredients

For the Casserole:

• 1 bag (9–10 oz) tortilla chips, lightly crushed
• 1 pound ground beef or turkey
• 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning
• 1 cup salsa (mild, medium, or hot)
• 1 can (15 oz) refried beans
• 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese, divided

Optional Toppings:

• Sour cream
• Guacamole
• Diced fresh tomatoes
• Sliced black olives
• Chopped green onions
• Fresh cilantro leaves

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

• Preheat oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.

Step 2: Cook the Meat

• In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef or turkey until fully cooked (about 6–8 minutes).
• Drain excess grease.
• Stir in taco seasoning and salsa. Simmer for 2–3 minutes to blend the flavors.

Step 3: Layer the Casserole

• Spread half the crushed tortilla chips evenly over the bottom of the prepared dish.
• Spoon the refried beans over the chips and spread evenly.
• Layer with half the seasoned beef mixture.
• Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheese on top.
• Add the remaining tortilla chips, followed by the remaining beef mixture.
• Top with the final cup of cheese, spreading to cover completely.

Step 4: Bake and Serve

• Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden at the edges.
• Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
• Add your favorite toppings and serve warm.

Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

• Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole (without baking), cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
• Freezer Friendly: Wrap tightly and freeze unbaked for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding 10–15 minutes to cook time.
• Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a layer of hot salsa.
• Vegetarian: Use black beans and corn instead of meat.
• Taco Bake Style: Add a layer of cooked rice before the first cheese layer.
• Extra Creamy: Stir some sour cream or cream cheese into the meat mixture.

What to Serve With

• Fresh green salad
• Mexican street corn (elote)
• Cilantro lime rice
• Cold drinks or margaritas for adults

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use ground chicken or pork instead of beef?
Yes! Any ground meat works well.

Is this casserole spicy?
Only as spicy as your salsa and seasoning. Use mild salsa for less heat.

Can I skip the beans?
Absolutely. The casserole still works without them—just add a little extra meat or cheese.

How do I keep tortilla chips from getting soggy?
They’ll soften slightly during baking, but layering the meat and cheese evenly helps retain texture.

Final Thoughts

Mexican White Trash Casserole is proof that comfort food doesn’t need to be complicated. It’s budget-friendly, crave-worthy, and practically begs to be customized. Whether it’s Taco Tuesday, a lazy Sunday, or any day you need a cheesy, beefy pick-me-up—this casserole delivers every time.