Recipe

MEXICAN WHITE TRASH CASSEROLE – CHEESY, SAUCY & SO ADDICTIVE

Updated on 4 min read

This dish is everything you want in a comfort casserole: creamy, cheesy, spicy, saucy, and unbelievably satisfying. It’s that messy-looking, insanely delicious, crowd-pleasing kind of recipe that tastes even better the next day. Perfect for busy nights, potlucks, or when you just need REAL comfort food.

Quick Description

Mexican White Trash Casserole is a layered, ultra-creamy Tex-Mex bake loaded with tender chicken, tortillas, zesty green chiles, melty cheese, and a rich sour-cream-style sauce. It’s the perfect “dump-and-bake” meal — zero fuss, maximum flavor, and totally addictive.

Servings & Timing

Servings: 6–8
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Ingredients List

Base Layer Ingredients

  • 3 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie works great)
  • 8 small flour or low-carb tortillas, torn into pieces
  • 1 (10 oz) can Rotel tomatoes (drained)
  • 1 (4 oz) can diced green chiles
  • 1 cup corn kernels (optional)

Creamy Sauce

  • 1 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for lighter version)
  • 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
  • ½ cup chicken broth
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • ½ tsp cumin
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper

Cheese Layer

  • 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese
  • ½ cup shredded mozzarella (optional for extra melt)

Toppings (Optional but AMAZING)

  • Crushed tortilla chips
  • Sliced jalapeños
  • Cilantro
  • Extra cheese

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 casserole dish.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Sauce

In a mixing bowl, whisk together:

  • sour cream
  • cream of chicken soup
  • chicken broth
  • garlic powder
  • onion powder
  • chili powder
  • cumin
  • salt & pepper

Stir until smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Combine the Filling

In a large bowl, mix together:

  • shredded chicken
  • Rotel
  • green chiles
  • corn (optional)
  • ½ cup of the creamy sauce

Mix very well so every bite gets coated.

Step 4: Layer the Casserole

In your casserole dish:

Layer 1: Torn tortilla pieces
Layer 2: Half of the chicken mixture
Layer 3: A drizzle of sauce
Layer 4: Cheese

Repeat layers until everything is used — finish with a THICK layer of cheese on top.

Step 5: Bake

Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until:

  • cheese is bubbling
  • edges are golden
  • center is hot and melty

For extra crispy cheese:
Broil for 2 minutes at the end.

Step 6: Add Toppings

Top with:

  • crushed tortilla chips
  • jalapeños
  • cilantro
  • extra cheese

Let it rest 5 minutes so it firms up slightly.

Additional Notes

  • Rotisserie chicken = BEST flavor + easiest prep
  • Tortillas: low-carb, whole wheat, or classic flour all work
  • For spicy: add diced jalapeños or use hot Rotel
  • For extra creaminess: add 4 oz cream cheese to the sauce

Dietary Info

  • High-Protein: Use Greek yogurt + extra chicken
  • Keto: Use low-carb tortillas + omit corn & Rotel
  • Gluten-Free: Use GF tortillas + GF soup alternative
  • Slimming: Use low-fat cheese, Greek yogurt, no chips

Ingredient Details & Substitutions

  • Chicken: Swap for beef, turkey, pork, or shredded rotisserie
  • Cheese: Monterey Jack gives the creamiest melt
  • Tortillas: Can be replaced with low-carb tortillas or even sliced zucchini
  • Soup Substitute: Mix ½ cup broth + ½ cup Greek yogurt + 1 tbsp cornstarch for a cleaner option

Variations & Serving Suggestions

Variations

  • Spicy Fiesta Version: Add jalapeños + pepper jack
  • Creamy Ranch Version: Add a packet of ranch seasoning
  • Veggie Version: Add black beans, peppers, zucchini
  • Super Cheesy Version: Add cream cheese to the sauce

Serve With

  • Mexican rice (or cauliflower rice for low-carb)
  • Guacamole
  • Salsa
  • A simple side salad

Storage & Make-Ahead

Fridge: 4 days
Freeze (unbaked or baked): Up to 3 months

Reheat in oven at 350°F for 15 minutes.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this ahead?
Yes! Assemble fully, cover, refrigerate, bake when needed.

Q: Do corn tortillas work?
Yes — they give a firmer, more traditional enchilada texture.

Q: Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Use a larger baking dish or make two pans.

Optional Personal Story

This casserole became an instant family favorite the first time I made it. It’s messy, cheesy, comforting, and somehow tastes even BETTER reheated the next day. It’s one of those “set it on the table and watch it disappear” meals — no fancy ingredients, no stress, just true comfort.

Call-to-Action

Try this Mexican White Trash Casserole tonight — it’s easy, creamy, spicy, cheesy, and guaranteed to become a “repeat recipe” in your kitchen!

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