Looking for a comforting and satisfying Mexican-inspired dish to feed your family? Look no further than this delicious Mexican White Trash Casserole! Packed with flavor and easy to make, this casserole will become a favorite in your household in no time.
**Ingredients:**
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 can corn, drained
– 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 can diced green chilies
– 1 packet taco seasoning
– 1 cup shredded Mexican blend cheese
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Tortilla chips
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef with the diced onion until cooked through. Drain off any excess fat.
3. Add the corn, black beans, diced tomatoes, green chilies, and taco seasoning to the skillet. Stir to combine.
4. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, layer the bottom with tortilla chips.
5. Pour the beef mixture over the top of the tortilla chips.
6. Top with shredded cheese.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Garnish with dollops of sour cream and chopped cilantro before serving.
**Nutrition Information:**
– Calories: 380
– Protein: 24g
– Carbohydrates: 27g
– Fat: 20g
– Fiber: 6g
**Popular questions:**
1. **Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?**
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for the ground beef in this recipe for a leaner option.
2. **Can I use different beans instead of black beans?**
Yes, you can use kidney beans, pinto beans, or any other beans of your choice in place of black beans.
3. **Can I use store-bought taco seasoning or make my own?**
You can use store-bought taco seasoning for convenience, but making your own blend of spices can customize the flavor to your liking.
4. **Can I make this casserole ahead of time?**
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking step and refrigerate it until you are ready to bake it.
5. **Can I add additional vegetables to this casserole?**
Feel free to add diced bell peppers, jalapenos, or any other vegetables you enjoy to enhance the dish.
6. **Can I freeze leftovers of this casserole?**
Yes, you can freeze leftovers of this casserole for up to 3 months. Simply thaw and reheat when ready to enjoy.
7. **Is it necessary to garnish with sour cream and cilantro?**
The garnishes are optional but add freshness and creaminess to the dish.
8. **Can I make this casserole spicy?**
You can add additional spices like cayenne pepper or hot sauce to make the casserole spicier to suit your taste.
9. **Can I use different types of cheese for topping?**
Feel free to use cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack, or any cheese of your choice for topping the casserole.
10. **Can I add a layer of salsa to this casserole?**
You can add a layer of salsa between the beef mixture and cheese for extra flavor.
**Helpful tips:**
1. Crush the tortilla chips slightly before layering them to create a more even texture.
2. Add a layer of refried beans for extra creaminess and flavor.
3. Serve the casserole with a side of guacamole or salsa for additional toppings.
4. Customize the spice level by adjusting the amount of taco seasoning or adding jalapenos.
5. Make a vegetarian version of this casserole by omitting the ground beef and adding more vegetables.
6. Use a mix of different cheeses like pepper jack or queso fresco for a unique flavor profile.
7. Garnish with sliced avocado or pickled onions for added freshness.
8. Bake the casserole covered with foil for the first part of cooking to prevent the cheese from over-browning.
9. Add a layer of cooked rice or quinoa to make the casserole more substantial.
10. Experiment with different herbs like oregano or parsley for added depth of flavor.
**Expert Secrets:**
1. Pre-cook the vegetables like onions and bell peppers before adding them to the beef mixture for enhanced flavors.
2. Let the casserole sit for a few minutes after baking to allow it to set and make it easier to serve.
3. Use a blend of different types of corn like fire-roasted or sweet corn for additional sweetness and smokiness.
4. Mix in a can of diced green chilies for a mild heat that enhances the overall flavor.
5. Use a cast-iron skillet to cook the beef mixture for a more even and caramelized result.
6. Sprinkle a layer of crushed tortilla chips on top of the cheese for added crunch.
7. Serve the casserole with a squeeze of fresh lime juice to brighten the flavors.
8. Use fresh herbs like parsley or basil in place of cilantro if you are not a fan of the flavor.
9. Replace sour cream with Greek yogurt for a healthier alternative with a tangy kick.
10. Experiment with different toppings like pickled jalapenos or black olives to customize the dish to your taste preferences.
Enjoy this flavorful and hearty Mexican White Trash Casserole as a delicious family meal that is sure to impress!