Mexican White Trash Casserole (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Casserole foundation

01 - 270 grams tortilla chips, lightly crushed
02 - 450 grams ground beef or ground turkey
03 - 28 grams taco seasoning
04 - 240 millilitres salsa, heat level to taste
05 - 425 grams refried beans
06 - 200 grams shredded Mexican blend cheese, divided

→ Optional toppings for serving

07 - Sour cream
08 - Guacamole
09 - Diced fresh tomatoes
10 - Sliced black olives
11 - Chopped green onions
12 - Fresh cilantro leaves

# Instructions:

01 - Preheat oven to 190°C. Lightly coat a 33x23 cm baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
02 - In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef or turkey, breaking up meat, until browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat. Stir in taco seasoning and salsa and simmer for 2-3 minutes to blend flavors.
03 - Evenly spread half of the crushed tortilla chips across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
04 - Spoon refried beans over the chip layer and spread into an even layer. Add half of the seasoned meat mixture evenly over beans.
05 - Sprinkle 100 grams of shredded Mexican cheese blend over the meat layer, distributing evenly.
06 - Top with remaining tortilla chips, then layer the rest of the meat mixture. Sprinkle remaining 100 grams of cheese evenly across the top.
07 - Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is bubbly and lightly golden at the edges. Allow to cool for 5 minutes before adding desired toppings and serving.

# Notes:

01 - To keep the chips crisp, add them just before assembly rather than letting them sit out. For more spice, choose a hot salsa or add chili flakes with the seasoning.