King Ranch Casserole is a beloved Tex-Mex dish that combines layers of chicken, tortillas, cheese, and a creamy, spicy sauce. Named after the famous King Ranch in Texas, this casserole is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where you want to serve something hearty and delicious. It’s easy to make and packed with flavor, making it a favorite in many households. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that will surely become a staple in your meal rotation.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (Rotel)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 12 corn tortillas, cut into quarters
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the Sauce: In a large skillet, sauté the chopped onion and green bell pepper over medium heat until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Stir in the condensed cream of chicken soup, condensed cream of mushroom soup, diced tomatoes with green chilies, chicken broth, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well and let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes.
- Layer the Casserole: In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the sauce. Place a layer of the quartered corn tortillas over the sauce. Add a layer of shredded chicken, followed by a layer of shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. Repeat the layers, ending with a generous layer of cheese on top.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro.
Conclusion
This King Ranch Casserole is a delightful blend of creamy, cheesy goodness with the savory flavor of chicken and spices. It’s a perfect dish for any occasion and pairs well with a variety of sides. Enjoy this comforting classic with your loved ones!
FAQs
1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking as directed.
2. Can I freeze King Ranch Casserole?
Absolutely! After assembling, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.
3. What can I serve with King Ranch Casserole?
This casserole pairs well with a variety of sides such as a fresh green salad, Mexican rice, or refried beans. You can also serve it with tortilla chips and salsa for a complete Tex-Mex meal.
4. Can I use a different type of meat?
Certainly! Ground turkey, beef, or even a meat substitute can be used as a substitute for chicken. Just make sure to cook and crumble the meat before adding it to the casserole.
5. How can I make this casserole spicier?
To add more heat, you can include diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce in the sauce mixture. Using a spicier diced tomato with green chilies can also increase the heat level.
6. Can I add other ingredients to this casserole?
Yes, this recipe is very versatile. Feel free to add ingredients like black beans, corn, or different types of cheese to suit your taste preferences.
Enjoy making and sharing this delicious King Ranch Casserole with your friends and family! 🌮🧀🍗
Feel free to ask if you need more recipes or have any other questions!