White Trash Casserole with Doritos: The Best Quick Fix Dinner

If you’re looking for a cozy, hearty meal that comes together in no time, let me introduce you to my favorite comfort food: White Trash Casserole with Doritos: The Best Quick Fix Dinner. This dish is more than just a casserole; it’s a warm hug on a plate! With layers of ground beef, creamy goodness, and that irresistible crunch from Doritos, it’s perfect for everything from busy weeknights to family gatherings. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll understand why it has a special place in my heart.

This recipe is super easy to whip up and sure to please everyone at the table. Plus, it’s versatile enough to switch things up based on what you have at home. So grab your apron and let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: This casserole takes just 40 minutes from start to finish, making it an ideal weeknight meal.
• Family-friendly: Kids (and adults) love the cheesy layers and crunchy Doritos—everyone will be asking for seconds!
• Make-ahead convenience: You can assemble this casserole ahead of time and pop it in the oven when you’re ready.
• Flexible ingredients: Substitute or add ingredients based on your taste preferences or pantry items.
• Comforting flavors: The combination of beef, cheese, and spices creates a delightful flavor profile that warms the soul.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this delicious White Trash Casserole with Doritos, you’ll need some simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Gather these items before we dive into cooking!

For the Casserole

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 medium onion, finely diced
• 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15 oz) can corn kernels, drained
• 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 1 (10.5 oz) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend, divided
• 1 large bag (9.25 oz) Nacho Cheese Doritos, lightly crushed

Optional Garnishes

• Sliced green onions
• Diced avocado
• Fresh cilantro
• Diced tomatoes

Variations

The beauty of this casserole is its flexibility! Feel free to make it your own with these fun variations:

• Swap the protein: Try using ground turkey or shredded chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Spice it up: If you like heat, add jalapeños or use spicy taco seasoning for a kick.
• Change the cheese: Mix in different cheese varieties like pepper jack or cheddar for unique tastes.

How to Make White Trash Casserole with Doritos: The Best Quick Fix Dinner

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures it’s hot enough when you’re ready to bake your casserole. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish so nothing sticks during cooking.

Step 2: Cook the Beef Mixture

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef along with the diced onion and minced garlic until the meat is no longer pink. This step adds important flavor as the onions become tender and sweet. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat!

Step 3: Season It Up

Add the taco seasoning along with the black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes into the skillet. Allow this mixture to simmer for about 2-3 minutes. Simmering helps meld those delicious flavors together.

Step 4: Prepare the Cream Mixture

In a separate bowl, mix together the cream of mushroom soup and sour cream until smooth. This creamy layer adds richness to your casserole and balances out all those robust flavors.

Step 5: Layer It All Together

In your greased baking dish, start by layering half of the meat mixture on the bottom. Next comes half of your cream mixture followed by one cup of shredded cheese and half of the crushed Doritos. Repeat these layers one more time until everything is used up—ending with cheese on top for that melty goodness.

Step 6: Bake Your Casserole

Cover your baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes. After that time has passed, remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 10 minutes until everything is bubbly and golden.

Step 7: Let It Rest Before Serving

After pulling your casserole from the oven, allow it to rest for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This lets all those delicious flavors settle together beautifully!

Now you’re ready to dig in! Serve this comforting White Trash Casserole with your choice of garnishes like sliced green onions or diced avocado for an extra touch. Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making White Trash Casserole with Doritos: The Best Quick Fix Dinner

Getting the most out of your White Trash Casserole can take this dish from good to absolutely fantastic! Here are some tips to ensure your casserole is a hit at the dinner table.

• Use lean ground beef: Opting for lean ground beef reduces excess fat, making your casserole a bit lighter while still packing in flavor.
• Customize your toppings: Feel free to mix in or substitute ingredients based on what you have on hand, like using different beans or veggies, to make it uniquely yours.
• Don’t skip the resting time: Letting the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes after baking allows the flavors to meld and makes serving easier.
• Experiment with cheese: Try different types of cheese or even add some pepper jack for a little heat. Cheese is key in creating that creamy goodness!
• Make it ahead of time: Prepare the casserole in advance and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, just pop it in the oven—easy peasy!

How to Serve White Trash Casserole with Doritos: The Best Quick Fix Dinner

Presenting your casserole beautifully can enhance the dining experience. Here’s how to serve it up right!

Garnishes

• Sliced green onions: These add a fresh crunch and a pop of color that brightens up your casserole.
• Diced avocado: Creamy avocado gives a rich texture that complements the flavors perfectly.
• Fresh cilantro: A sprinkle of chopped cilantro adds an aromatic touch and enhances the overall flavor profile.

Side Dishes

• Simple Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette balances out the richness of the casserole.
• Mexican Street Corn Salad: This sweet and creamy dish made with corn, lime juice, and spices offers a delightful contrast to the savory casserole.
• Guacamole and Tortilla Chips: This classic pairing brings an extra layer of flavor while providing a fun dipping option alongside your main dish.
• Spanish Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with spices complements the bold flavors of your casserole, making for a satisfying meal.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to enjoy a comforting evening with friends or family over this delicious White Trash Casserole! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This White Trash Casserole with Doritos is not only a quick fix dinner but also a fantastic option for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and store it for later, ensuring that you have a delicious meal ready when you need it.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Cool the casserole completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• For refrigerated leftovers, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Cover the casserole with foil and bake for about 20 minutes until heated through.
• If frozen, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating, or bake from frozen for about 45-60 minutes covered.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful dish!

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef in the White Trash Casserole with Doritos?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute and will still yield a delicious casserole. Just be sure to cook it thoroughly.

How long does the White Trash Casserole with Doritos last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, this casserole can last in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, you can replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative and skip the cheese or use vegan cheese.

Can I add more vegetables to the White Trash Casserole with Doritos?

Certainly! Feel free to add bell peppers, zucchini, or any favorite veggies to boost nutrition and flavor.

What should I serve with my White Trash Casserole with Doritos?

This casserole is hearty on its own but pairs well with a simple side salad or some fresh fruit for a refreshing contrast.

Final Thoughts

I hope you feel inspired to whip up this comforting White Trash Casserole with Doritos! It’s a special recipe that combines simplicity with flavor, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. Enjoy making it and sharing it with your loved ones—there’s nothing like good food to bring everyone together. Happy cooking!