When it comes to hearty, crowd-pleasing comfort food, few dishes hold the same beloved reputation as King Ranch Casserole. A staple of Tex-Mex home cooking, this layered casserole combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, melted cheese, and tortillas baked to perfection. Bursting with flavor, it’s the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table and guarantees no leftovers.
What Is King Ranch Casserole?
Named after the famous King Ranch in Texas—though curiously, there’s no confirmed connection—this casserole has become a regional classic. It’s built much like a Tex-Mex lasagna, with layers of corn tortillas, shredded chicken, creamy sauce, and plenty of cheese.
The flavors lean into the bold, smoky side of Tex-Mex cuisine, often featuring Rotel tomatoes (diced tomatoes with green chilies), bell peppers, onions, and seasonings. The result is a dish that’s rich, cheesy, and just the right amount of spicy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
- 1 can (10 oz) Rotel tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- 2 cups shredded cheddar or Mexican-blend cheese
- 10–12 corn tortillas, cut into halves or quarters
- Fresh cilantro and sliced jalapeños for garnish (optional)
Prep and Cook Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6–8
Instructions
1. Preheat and Prep
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook Veggies
In a large skillet, heat butter or oil over medium heat. Sauté onion and bell peppers until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Build the Sauce
Stir in the Rotel tomatoes, cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, and seasonings. Mix until well combined and creamy. Add shredded chicken to coat evenly.
4. Layer the Casserole
Place a layer of tortillas at the bottom of the baking dish. Spread half of the chicken mixture over the tortillas, then sprinkle with cheese. Repeat layers until ingredients are used up, finishing with cheese on top.
5. Bake
Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and golden around the edges.
6. Garnish and Serve
Let cool for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with cilantro and jalapeños if desired.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: ~390
- Fat: 21g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Protein: 27g
- Sodium: 890mg
(Nutritional values may vary depending on ingredients and portion size.)
Presentation and Serving Tips
- Family Style: Serve directly from the casserole dish with a big spoon for a rustic, communal feel.
- Individual Portions: Cut into neat squares and serve with a side of Mexican rice or a green salad.
- Toppings: Add a dollop of sour cream, sliced avocado, or a sprinkle of fresh lime juice for brightness.
Variations and Customizations
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the sauce mixture for extra heat.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with black beans, corn, and sautéed mushrooms.
- Lighter Version: Use low-fat soups and cheese, and swap in whole wheat tortillas.
- Beefy Twist: Substitute ground beef or turkey for the chicken for a different flavor profile.
Why King Ranch Casserole Is a Must-Try
This casserole checks every box for weeknight cooking: it’s budget-friendly, feeds a crowd, and comes together with pantry staples. Its comforting layers of tortillas, chicken, and creamy sauce make it a dish that never goes out of style. Plus, it’s freezer-friendly—perfect for meal prep or bringing to friends and family in need of a comforting meal.
If you’re searching for a dish that’s equal parts comforting, flavorful, and easy to prepare, King Ranch Casserole is the answer. It’s a Tex-Mex treasure that delivers warmth and satisfaction in every bite. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a potluck, or meal prep, this casserole promises to be a hit at any table.
So grab your baking dish, layer up those tortillas, and enjoy a slice of Texas-inspired comfort food at its best.