Mexican White Trash Casserole

Creamy Doritos Chicken or Beef Casserole

A Tex-Mex-inspired baked casserole made with crushed Doritos, melty cheese, and a creamy taco-seasoned filling. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or game day!

Ingredients (Serves 6)

• 1 (9.75 oz or similar) bag Nacho Cheese Doritos, lightly crushed

• 2 cups shredded cooked chicken or cooked ground beef

• 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Mexican blend, or Monterey Jack)

• 1 (10.75 oz) can cream of chicken soup

• 1 (10 oz) can Rotel tomatoes (diced tomatoes with green chilies), undrained

• 1/2 cup sour cream

• 1/2 cup milk

• 1/2 packet taco seasoning (or to taste)

• 🧂 Optional: green onions, olives, jalapeños, chopped cilantro for garnish

 Step-by-Step Instructions

 Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Dish

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Lightly grease a 2-quart casserole dish (or an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking dish) with nonstick spray or a thin layer of oil.

 Step 2: Crush the Doritos

1. Open the bag of Nacho Cheese Doritos, and lightly crush them using your hands inside the bag or in a large ziplock.

   • You want bite-sized pieces, not Doritos dust.

   • Set aside.

Save about 1/2 cup for sprinkling on top for an extra crunch if desired.

 Step 3: Make the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine:

• 2 cups shredded chicken or ground beef (fully cooked)

• 1 cup shredded cheese

• 1 can cream of chicken soup

• 1 can Rotel tomatoes, undrained

• 1/2 cup sour cream

• 1/2 cup milk

• 1/2 packet taco seasoning

Mix everything thoroughly until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed (add a bit more taco seasoning or salt).

 Step 4: Layer the Casserole

1. First layer: Spread half of the crushed Doritos evenly in the bottom of your prepared baking dish.

2. Second layer: Spoon half of the creamy meat mixture over the chips and spread it out gently using a spatula.

3. Repeat: Add the remaining Doritos on top of the meat mixture, then finish with the rest of the filling spread evenly over the top.

4. Top with cheese: Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup shredded cheese over the top of the casserole.

Optional: Sprinkle extra crushed Doritos, green onions, or sliced jalapeños for more texture and flavor.

 Step 5: Bake

1. Cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil (to retain moisture and prevent over-browning).

2. Place in the preheated oven and bake for 35 minutes.

3. If making a double batch in a larger pan (9×13″), extend baking time to 45 minutes or until bubbling hot.

 Step 6: Uncover and Broil (Optional)

1. For a golden bubbly top, remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking.

2. Or broil on high for 1–2 minutes at the end — just keep a close eye to avoid burning.

 Step 7: Rest and Serve

1. Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes to set.

2. Scoop into portions using a large spoon or spatula.

3. Garnish if desired with:

   • Chopped fresh cilantro

   • Sliced green onions

   • Sour cream dollops

   • Extra crushed Doritos

   • Diced tomatoes or avocado

 Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side salad, corn on the cob, or Mexican-style rice.

• Add hot sauce or salsa for an extra kick.

 Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Reheat in the microwave or oven (cover with foil and bake at 350°F for 15–20 minutes).

• Doritos may lose some crunch but flavor stays strong.

 Variations

• Vegetarian version: Use black beans, corn, and sautéed bell peppers instead of meat.

• Spicy version: Add jalapeños, hot Rotel, or pepper jack cheese.

• Creamier: Add 1 extra tablespoon of sour cream and a splash more milk to the mix.

• Low-carb version: Swap Doritos with crushed low-carb tortilla chips or skip the chips and just bake the creamy filling with cheese on top.

enjoy!