Mexican White Trash Casserole is a simple, hearty, and comforting dish that blends savory ground beef with black beans, corn, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and cream cheese. Baked to bubbling perfection, this casserole is easy to prepare and packed with bold, Tex-Mex flavor that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make: With minimal prep and a handful of pantry staples, this casserole comes together quickly.
Bold Flavors: Southwest-inspired ingredients deliver a satisfying and mildly spicy flavor profile.
Crowd-Pleaser: Great for feeding a family or serving at potlucks.
Creamy and Filling: Cream cheese gives the dish a rich, smooth texture.
Versatile Base: Add toppings or serve with sides to customize to your taste.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 pound ground beef
1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 ounces) corn, drained
1 can (10 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chilies
1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened

Optional:

Shredded cheese for topping (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend)

Directions

Preheat Oven:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Lightly grease a baking dish (8×8 or 9×13-inch) with cooking spray.

Prepare the Casserole:

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
In a large bowl, combine the cooked ground beef, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and softened cream cheese.
Stir until everything is well mixed and the cream cheese is fully incorporated.

Assemble the Casserole:

Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it into an even layer.
Use a spatula to smooth the top.

Bake the Casserole:

Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until heated through and bubbling around the edges.
For an optional cheesy topping, sprinkle shredded cheese on top during the last 5 minutes of baking.

Serve:

Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Spoon into generous portions and serve hot.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Calories: Approximately 350 kcal per serving

Variations

Add Rice: Mix in 1 cup of cooked rice for a heartier casserole.
Spicy Version: Use hot diced tomatoes with chilies or add jalapeños.
Taco Seasoning: Add a packet of taco seasoning to the beef for extra flavor.
Veggie Boost: Include chopped bell peppers or onions in the beef mixture.
Top It Off: Garnish with chopped cilantro, green onions, sour cream, or crushed tortilla chips.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days.
Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe dish for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through or microwave individual servings.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken is a great leaner alternative.

What kind of cream cheese should I use?

Full-fat cream cheese gives the richest texture, but reduced-fat works well too.

Can I prepare this casserole in advance?

Yes, assemble it ahead of time, refrigerate, and bake when ready.

Is this dish spicy?

It’s mildly spicy from the diced tomatoes with green chilies. Use mild versions for less heat.

Can I add pasta or noodles?

Yes, cooked pasta like elbow macaroni can be mixed in to stretch the dish further.

What should I serve with this casserole?

Great with tortilla chips, salad, or a side of Spanish rice.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes, simply omit the meat or substitute with plant-based ground crumbles.

Can I cook this in a slow cooker?

Yes, cook the beef first, mix all ingredients, and heat on low for 3–4 hours.

Does this freeze well?

Very well—wrap tightly and freeze after assembling or after baking.

How do I keep the cheese topping from drying out?

Add the cheese during the last few minutes of baking or cover loosely with foil.

Conclusion

Mexican White Trash Casserole is an easy, creamy, and flavor-packed dish that satisfies with every bite. With simple ingredients and bold Southwest flair, it’s a no-fuss meal your whole family will love. Serve it hot and customize with your favorite toppings for a cozy and delicious dinner any night of the week.

Mexican White Trash Casserole

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Author: Olivia
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Mexican White Trash Casserole is a rich, cheesy, and comforting one-dish meal packed with seasoned ground beef, black beans, corn, tomatoes with green chilies, and creamy cream cheese. This easy ground beef casserole comes together in under an hour and is perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or feeding a hungry family with minimal fuss.

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel)
1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened

Optional: 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese (for topping)

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Instructions

. Preheat Oven:

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a baking dish (9×13-inch) with cooking spray.

2. Prepare the Casserole:

In a skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until fully browned. Drain excess fat.
In a large mixing bowl, combine browned beef, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and softened cream cheese. Mix until well combined.

3. Assemble the Casserole:

Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
Smooth the top with a spatula for even baking.

4. Bake the Casserole:

Bake for 25–30 minutes until heated through and bubbly.
Optional: Sprinkle shredded cheese on top during the last 5 minutes of baking and let it melt.

5. Serve:

Let cool slightly before serving.
Scoop onto plates and enjoy this hearty, flavorful casserole.

Notes

Add taco seasoning to the beef for extra flavor.
Serve with tortilla chips or a side salad.

Great for leftovers or meal prep—reheats well.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American