Crunchy Tex-Mex Casserole with Spicy Ranch Drizzle Recipe

Name: Crunchy Tex-Mex Casserole with Spicy Ranch Drizzle
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 8
Ingredients: 2 8.5-ounce boxes cornbread muffin mix; 1 cup chicken broth; 3 cups shredded rotisserie chicken; 1 15-ounce jar salsa, mild or medium; 1 12-ounce bag of frozen corn kernels, thawed; 2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese; 1 cup lightly crushed nacho-flavored tortilla chips; 1 2.25-ounce can sliced black olives, drained; 3 green onions, chopped; 1 cup ranch dressing; 1 teaspoon hot sauce, or to taste

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients:

2 (8.5-ounce) boxes cornbread muffin mix
1 cup chicken broth
3 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
1 (15-ounce) jar salsa (mild or medium)
1 (12-ounce) bag frozen corn kernels, thawed
2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese
1 cup lightly crushed nacho-flavored tortilla chips
1 (2.25 ounce) can sliced black olives, drained
3 medium green onions, chopped
1 cup ranch dressing
1 teaspoon hot sauce, or to taste

Directions:

Gather all the ingredients and preheat the oven to 375F (190C). Spray a 9x13-inch glass or ceramic casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray.
In a large bowl, combine the cornbread muffin mix and chicken broth. Stir well until fully mixed.
Spread the cornbread mixture evenly over the bottom of the casserole dish.
Bake the cornbread mixture in the preheated oven for 15 minutes.
Once the cornbread is done, remove it from the oven and top it with shredded chicken.
Dot the chicken with salsa using a spoon, spreading it evenly over the chicken layer.
Sprinkle the thawed corn over the chicken and salsa mixture, then top with shredded Cheddar cheese.
Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the bottom crust turns golden brown.
Remove from the oven and sprinkle crushed tortilla chips, sliced black olives, and chopped green onions on top.
In a small bowl, mix ranch dressing with hot sauce, then drizzle the mixture over the casserole.
Cut into 6 or 8 rectangles and serve.

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

Calories: 786
Fat: 44g (57% Daily Value)
Saturated Fat: 12g (62% Daily Value)
Cholesterol: 142mg (47% Daily Value)
Sodium: 1901mg (83% Daily Value)
Total Carbohydrates: 63g (23% Daily Value)
Dietary Fiber: 7g (24% Daily Value)
Total Sugars: 18g
Protein: 36g (72% Daily Value)
Vitamin C: 5mg (6% Daily Value)
Calcium: 299mg (23% Daily Value)
Iron: 3mg (18% Daily Value)
Potassium: 628mg (13% Daily Value)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Crunchy Tex-Mex Casserole with Spicy Ranch Drizzle Recipe

Recipe by: Bette Sullivan

Origin of Tex-Mex Cuisine

Tex-Mex, short for Texas-Mexican, is a style of cuisine that blends traditional Mexican cooking with American influences, primarily from Texas. The history of Tex-Mex can be traced back to the 19th century when Mexican immigrants in Texas began adapting their recipes to incorporate locally available ingredients like beef and cheese, which were not commonly used in Mexico. Over time, the fusion of these ingredients and cooking methods evolved into what we now recognize as Tex-Mex. This cuisine has grown immensely popular across the U.S. and beyond, with dishes like chili con carne, fajitas, and tacos taking center stage.

Regional Variations

Tex-Mex cuisine varies widely across different regions of the United States, especially in the Southwest. In some areas, the focus is on heavy, cheesy dishes, while in others, lighter, more vegetable-forward meals are common. The Crunchy Tex-Mex Casserole with Spicy Ranch Drizzle is a perfect example of Tex-Mex adaptation, using pantry staples such as cornbread, rotisserie chicken, salsa, and cheese, to create a hearty, comforting meal. The use of ranch dressing and hot sauce in the drizzle adds a unique flair that sets this dish apart from more traditional Tex-Mex casseroles.

What Sets It Apart

What makes the Crunchy Tex-Mex Casserole stand out from similar dishes is the combination of its cornbread base and crunchy tortilla chips on top, which contrasts nicely with the savory chicken and cheese filling. The spicy ranch drizzle adds an extra kick, making this dish a crowd-pleaser. Unlike other casseroles that may lean toward being overly greasy or heavy, this one manages to stay light and flavorful, making it a great option for both weeknight dinners and gatherings.

Where It Is Served

This dish is typically served in casual settings, from family dinners to potlucks and Taco Tuesdays. It can also be found on the menu at many Tex-Mex restaurants that offer a more innovative spin on traditional dishes. The casserole's versatility allows it to be served as a main course, paired with a simple salad, or enjoyed as a hearty side dish. It's perfect for feeding a large group of people, especially when you're looking for a filling yet easy-to-make option.

Fun Facts About Tex-Mex

Tex-Mex was popularized in the 1930s and 1940s when it became a mainstay in Texas diners and was marketed as a "Mexican-American" style of cooking.
Despite the name, "Tex-Mex" is a distinctly American creation, influenced by both Mexican and Southern cuisine.
Ranch dressing, a key component of the drizzle in this casserole, was invented in 1954 by Steve Henson, a plumber who was working in Alaska at the time.
The use of cornbread in this casserole is a nod to Southern cooking, where cornbread is a beloved staple.

FAQ about Crunchy Tex-Mex Casserole with Spicy Ranch Drizzle Recipe

Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating.

Yes, this casserole can be frozen. To freeze, let it cool completely and then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave.

Yes, you can substitute cornbread with other types of bread or savory muffins. For example, a regular biscuit mix or a plain savory bread might work well as a base. Just ensure that the bread is sturdy enough to hold the layers on top.

To adjust the heat, you can add more hot sauce to the ranch drizzle based on your preference. For a milder version, reduce the amount of hot sauce or omit it entirely. If you want more heat, try using a spicier hot sauce or adding chili powder to the drizzle.

Yes, you can substitute the rotisserie chicken with other proteins like ground beef, turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. If you use ground meat, consider seasoning it with taco seasoning or spices to enhance the flavor.

To make this casserole vegetarian, simply replace the chicken with a plant-based protein like tofu, tempeh, or even beans. You could also add more vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or black beans for added texture and flavor.

Yes, you can use any type of cheese you prefer. Some good alternatives to Cheddar include Monterey Jack, Colby, or a Mexican cheese blend. You could also try adding a bit of queso fresco for a more authentic Tex-Mex flavor.

If you're not a fan of black olives, you can leave them out or substitute them with another topping. Sliced jalapeños, diced tomatoes, or even avocado slices can be good alternatives for adding freshness and flavor.

Yes, you can make the casserole ahead of time. Prepare the casserole up to the point before adding the final toppings and drizzle, then cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, just add the toppings and bake as instructed.

To reduce the sodium content, consider using low-sodium versions of the chicken broth, salsa, and ranch dressing. Additionally, you can skip the tortilla chips or use a low-sodium version to further reduce the sodium levels in the casserole.

Comments

Lisa Lee

01/23/2023 04:05:43 AM

I have never seen my family devour a casserole as fast as they did the night I made this dish. This recipe is a perfect blend of cheesy, crunchy, savory flavors, with a touch of sweetness from the cornbread base. It's definitely going to be a regular in our household!

Nancy King

08/10/2022 05:13:30 PM

I recently tried this recipe and it was incredibly simple and packed with flavor. Instead of using salsa, I opted for Perdue short cuts grilled chicken and taco seasoning mix. I sautéed the chicken and corn with the taco seasoning mix and a bit of chicken broth while the cornbread was baking in the oven. Once the cornbread was done, I layered the seasoned chicken and corn on top, sprinkled with cheese, and baked it for an additional 15 minutes. Before serving, I added crushed Doritos for an extra crunch. Skipped the drizzle, but it turned out delicious nonetheless.

Sandra Diaz

04/30/2024 01:49:43 PM

I only made one adjustment to this recipe by adding three or four times the suggested amount of hot sauce (Cholula original) to the ranch dressing since it lacked spiciness as per the instructions. Your experience may vary depending on the hot sauce you use. Overall, this dish is simple, tasty comfort food.

Steven Sanchez

03/29/2024 03:30:37 PM

This dish was pretty good as it is, but my husband really doesn't like ranch dressing, so I'll leave out half of it when I make it for him. He also wasn't a fan of the cornbread layer, but I personally thought it was delicious! Thanks for sharing this recipe.

Raymond Evans

02/15/2025 06:19:38 AM

I'm glad I only made half of the recipe because it didn't meet my expectations. I fail to see how this could be considered a top casserole of any kind. I've had much better dishes before.

Amy White

09/27/2022 03:09:48 AM

This recipe is reminiscent of a dish found in a classic 1979 Betty Crocker cookbook. It's essentially a variation with cornbread at the bottom, replacing ground beef with chicken. The ingredients are quite similar, and it's a dish I've been enjoying for many years.

Linda Gonzalez

03/31/2024 09:01:03 AM

Bette, congratulations on winning the Top Casserole out of 100! I tried making it yesterday and it exceeded all my expectations. The flavor was exceptional and unique, and the preparation was so simple. My family was amazed at how tasty and light it was – a rare find in Tex-Mex dishes! I was surprised that such a straightforward recipe could turn out so delicious. I followed the instructions exactly and wouldn't make any changes! Fantastic job, thank you!

Charles Johnson

11/26/2024 05:35:07 PM

I was surprised by how poorly a casserole, made from ingredients I usually enjoy, turned out. It was simple to prepare, but unfortunately, I could only manage to eat a couple of bites. Although my husband is trying to finish his portion, he has requested that I avoid making it again. I regret the waste of food, but it looks like this dish will have to be thrown out.

Kelly Turner

10/05/2023 11:51:23 PM

We halved the recipe and utilized leftover roasted chicken along with regular tortilla chips. Opting for Dorito nacho chips would have enhanced the dish even more.

Heather Rivera

09/15/2023 07:58:41 PM

Recently tried the Ranch drizzle for kids and it was a huge success. Will definitely be using it again.

Benjamin Allen

03/05/2024 10:46:01 PM

I enjoy

Melissa Davis

08/03/2023 08:13:05 AM

"Can cornbread be replaced with anything else?"

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Crunchy Tex-Mex Casserole with Spicy Ranch Drizzle Recipe

Origin of Tex-Mex Cuisine

Regional Variations

What Sets It Apart

Where It Is Served

Fun Facts About Tex-Mex

FAQ about Crunchy Tex-Mex Casserole with Spicy Ranch Drizzle Recipe