Fiesta Trash Can Casserole

Fiesta Trash Can Casserole: Get Ready to Party!

Ever find yourself craving something naughty but oh-so-good? Honestly, this Mexican White Trash Casserole is it . It's a symphony of flavors that just work.

Crunchy chips, seasoned beef, and tons of melted cheese? Yes, please! You know?

This Mexican Comfort Food Casserole recipe is inspired by those old-school layered dips we all love. We're talking about a dish born to become the main event.

Think of it as a warm hug on a plate. It takes about 45- 50 minutes to make, start to finish.

This Texas Casserole Ground Beef recipe easily feeds 6-8 hungry people.

Why You'll Be Obsessed With This Easy Mexican Dinner Ideas

This is more than just food. It's a mood booster. A big plus of this recipe is that uses super basic ingredients.

No need to spend all day cooking. It's perfect for a casual get-together or a cozy night in. Think of it as the ultimate Fiesta Casserole Recipe .

And it's a nutritional powerhouse! Packed with protein and a decent amount of fibre. Plus, who can resist a Cheesy Beef Tortilla Casserole ?

What Makes This Southwestern Casserole Recipe so special?

This Layered Mexican Casserole has a unique flavor. It’s that perfect blend of savory, spicy, and crunchy. This Ground Beef Tortilla Chip Bake is so versatile! I once made this when my mate Dave unexpectedly came over for the football.

He ended up eating half the dish himself.

Ingredients & Equipment for Your Fiesta!

Let's talk about what you'll need to nail this Mexican White Trash Casserole . Honestly, it's mostly stuff you probably have already.

Think of this Mexican Tortilla Chip Casserole as your easy peasy way to a Texas Casserole Ground Beef experience. I've tweaked this recipe a fair bit and you can too, depending on what's knocking about in the pantry.

Main Ingredients List for the Best Taco Casserole With Tortillas Chips

• Ground Beef: 1 pound (450g). Go for at least 80/20 . Fat is flavor, innit?
• Onion: 1 medium, chopped. About 1 cup (150g). Any onion will do. I find white or yellow works best in this fiesta casserole recipe.
• Taco Seasoning: 1 packet (1 ounce/28g). I have had great luck finding them for 75 cents.
• Water: 1/2 cup (120ml). Tap water is fine!
• Refried Beans: 1 (15 ounce/425g) can . I like the smooth kind but you can always go chunky.
• Salsa: 1 (16 ounce/450g) jar . Mild, medium, hot it's all good! A little tip? Always taste your salsa, it might need more heat!
• Tortilla Chips: 1 (8 ounce/225g) bag , coarsely crushed. About 6 cups . Don't use the super thin ones. You know? Those will just turn to mush.
• Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups (225g) shredded, divided. Or a Mexican blend if you're feeling fancy! Don't skimp on the cheese, it's key in this cheesy beef tortilla casserole !
• Sour Cream & Green Onions (Optional): For topping.

Seasoning Notes - Elevating Your Layered Mexican Casserole

Taco seasoning is your base. But add a pinch of cumin or chili powder. Boosts the flavor of the ground beef.

No taco seasoning? Chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika and a pinch of cumin will do the trick. For a deeper flavour, try adding a bay leaf while simmering the beef.

Just remember to take it out before layering!

Equipment Needed

• Large Skillet: For browning the beef.
• 9x13 inch Baking Dish: (23x33cm).
• Mixing Spoon: For stirring everything.
• Potato masher: This is optional but great when you want to mash the beans easily

That's it. No crazy gadgets needed for this Southwestern Casserole Recipe . Use a cast iron skillet instead. You can go from stove to oven and you can save on the washing up! Now you can try this amazing and easy mexican dinner idea .

Fiesta Trash Can Casserole: Let's Get This Party Started!

Honestly, when I first heard of Mexican White Trash Casserole , I thought, "Oh my gosh, what is this?" But you know what? Don't let the name fool you.

This is pure comfort food, a Southwestern Casserole Recipe dream come true. I've tweaked it over the years, and trust me, it's a winner.

Think of it as a Mexican Tortilla Chip Casserole on steroids! It's perfect for potlucks or a lazy Easy Mexican Dinner Ideas night.

Level Up Your Prep: Mise en Place Like a Boss

First things first, let's get organized. Chop that onion (about 1 cup/150g). Brown that pound of ground beef. Gather your ingredients! This is all about time saving tips, so you're not scrambling later.

Remember, a little prep goes a long way.

Fiesta Time: step-by-step to Taco Casserole With Tortillas Chips Bliss!

1. Preheat to 350° F ( 175° C). Get that oven ready for some Cheesy Beef Tortilla Casserole goodness.
2. Brown 1 pound (450g) ground beef. Drain the grease. Nobody wants a greasy Texas Casserole Ground Beef .
3. Stir in 1 packet (1 ounce/28g) taco seasoning and 1/2 cup (120ml) water. Simmer for 5 minutes .
4. Spread 1 (15 ounce/425g) can of refried beans at the bottom of your 9x13 inch baking dish.
5. Add 1 (16 ounce/450g) jar of salsa, then half of your crushed 8 ounce (225g) tortilla chips.
6. Spoon beef mixture over the chips. Top with half of your 2 cups (225g) shredded cheese.
7. Repeat chip and cheese layers. We're building a Layered Mexican Casserole here!
8. Bake for 25- 30 minutes until bubbly.

Pro Tips: From Zero to Fiesta Hero

Don't use soggy chips! Sturdy ones work best in this Ground Beef Tortilla Chip Bake . Honestly, nobody likes a soggy casserole.

For a Mexican Comfort Food Casserole , a pinch of cumin in the beef takes it to the next level.

Want to make it ahead? Assemble the Fiesta Casserole Recipe and bake it just before serving.

Recipe Notes: Your Fiesta, Your Way!

Alright, so you're about to make this Mexican White Trash Casserole , also known as the Fiesta Casserole Recipe , a.

K.a. total comfort food heaven! Honestly, this Layered Mexican Casserole is so adaptable. I've tweaked it a million times.

Here's the lowdown on making it your version. Remember, we’re going for maximum flavour and minimum fuss.

Serving Like a Pro: Plating and Pairings

Fancy a bit of pizzazz? Dollop on some guac when you serve. A sprinkle of fresh coriander (cilantro, if you're American!) also works wonders.

Regarding sides, consider a simple salad with a lime vinaigrette. It cuts through the richness beautifully. And drinks? A cold beer goes down a treat.

Think Corona or Pacifico.

Storage Savvy: Keeping it Fresh

Right, you've got leftovers. No worries! This Cheesy Beef Tortilla Casserole keeps well.

• Fridge: Bung it in an airtight container and it'll be grand for 3-4 days .
• Freezer: Yep, you can freeze it! Wrap it well in foil, then a freezer bag. It'll last for up to 2 months . Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Oven is best. 350° F ( 175° C) until heated through. Microwave works too, but it might get a bit soggy.

Variations on a Theme: Making it Yours

Want to mix things up? Course you do! This Taco Casserole With Tortillas Chips is begging for it!

• Vegetarian: Swap the ground beef for cooked lentils. Works a charm. Think of it as a Southwestern Casserole Recipe , but veggie.
• Spice it Up: Add a tin of Rotel tomatoes. Boom! Hello heat.

Nutrition Nuggets: The Good Stuff

Okay, let's be honest, this Ground Beef Tortilla Chip Bake isn't exactly a health food. But everything in moderation, right? It's got protein from the beef, fibre from the beans, and, well, cheese makes everything better.

The great thing about Easy Mexican Dinner Ideas like this? They're packed with flavour.

Look, this Texas Casserole Ground Beef dish is all about having a laugh and enjoying some seriously good food. Don't be afraid to experiment and make it your own. You got this!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this Mexican White Trash Casserole really as easy as it sounds?

Absolutely! This recipe is designed for even the most kitchen challenged cooks. Think of it as layering delicious ingredients in a baking dish and letting the oven do the hard work. It's simpler than baking a Victoria sponge and less stressful than trying to understand the offside rule.

You'll be chowing down in no time!

Can I make the Fiesta Trash Can Casserole ahead of time?

You bet! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover it tightly with foil, and store it in the fridge. When you're ready to bake, just pop it in the oven and add about 10-15 minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through. Just like a good cup of tea, a little planning makes everything better.

My family is spice averse. How can I tone down the heat in this Mexican White Trash Casserole?

No worries, you can easily adjust the spice level! Use a mild salsa, choose a taco seasoning with a "mild" label, and omit any extra chili powder or jalapenos. You could even add a dollop of sour cream on top to cool things down. Think of it like dialing down the volume on your telly easy peasy!

Any ideas for a vegetarian version of the Fiesta Trash Can Casserole recipe?

Certainly! Simply swap out the ground beef for cooked black beans, lentils, or even crumbled vegetarian "beef." You could also add some extra veggies like corn, bell peppers, or zucchini for added flavour and texture. This simple change can transform a classic into a veggie delight!

How should I store leftover Fiesta Trash Can Casserole, and how long will it last?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through. Just bear in mind that the tortilla chips may lose some of their crispness after being stored, but the flavour will still be cracking!

Is the Fiesta Trash Can Casserole recipe a relatively healthy choice? What are some ways to make it healthier?

While delicious, the Fiesta Trash Can Casserole isn't exactly a health food, think of it as more of a treat! To make it healthier, use lean ground beef or ground turkey. Reduce the amount of cheese or opt for a reduced fat variety.

Using whole wheat tortilla chips or adding extra vegetables can also boost the nutritional value. Remember, everything in moderation, even this tasty casserole!