King Ranch Casserole

Get ready to delight your taste buds with a family favorite that has stood the test of time—King Ranch Casserole! This creamy and flavorful casserole recipe, passed down through generations and shared by Kendra Doss from Kansas City, Missouri, never fails to impress with its rich taste and touch of heat. Its ease of preparation and ability to freeze well make it a go-to dish for busy days or special occasions.

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 celery ribs, finely chopped
• 1 medium green pepper, finely chopped
• 1 medium sweet red pepper, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon canola oil
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 3 cups cubed cooked chicken breast
• 1 can (10¾ ounces) reduced-fat reduced-sodium condensed cream of celery soup, undiluted
• 1 can (10¾ ounces) reduced-fat reduced-sodium condensed cream of chicken soup, undiluted
• 1 can (10 ounces) diced tomatoes and green chilies, undrained
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 12 corn tortillas (6 inches), cut into 1-inch strips
• 2 cups (8 ounces) shredded reduced-fat cheddar cheese, divided

PREPARATIONS:

1. In a large nonstick skillet coated with cooking spray, sauté the finely chopped onion, celery, and peppers in canola oil until they become crisp-tender. Add the minced garlic and continue cooking for an additional minute. Stir in the cubed cooked chicken breast, condensed cream of celery soup, condensed cream of chicken soup, diced tomatoes and green chilies (with their juice), and chili powder. This creates the flavorful and creamy chicken mixture.
2. Line the bottom of a 3-qt. baking dish with half of the corn tortilla strips. Top the tortilla layer with half of the prepared chicken mixture and 1 cup of shredded reduced-fat cheddar cheese. Repeat the layers with the remaining tortilla strips, chicken mixture, and cheese.
3. Bake the assembled casserole, uncovered, at 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes or until it becomes bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden.

YIELD: 8 Servings

PREP/BAKE TIME: 55 minutes

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:

• For added spiciness, consider adding diced jalapenos to the chicken mixture or sprinkling jalapeno slices on top of the casserole before baking.

TIPS:

• To save time, use pre-cooked and shredded rotisserie chicken as a convenient option for this casserole.
• Serve King Ranch Casserole with a side of fresh green salad or cornbread for a complete and satisfying meal.

In conclusion, King Ranch Casserole is a timeless family favorite that has won the hearts and taste buds of many. This creamy and flavorful casserole, named after the iconic South Texas ranch, showcases the culinary expertise passed down through generations and shared by Kendra Doss from Kansas City, Missouri.

The combination of sautéed onions, celery, and peppers creates a delightful medley of flavors, while the addition of diced tomatoes and green chilies infuses the casserole with a touch of heat and excitement. The creamy and savory chicken mixture, combined with layers of corn tortilla strips and reduced-fat cheddar cheese, makes this casserole an irresistible indulgence.

Its ease of preparation and ability to freeze well make King Ranch Casserole a practical and versatile option for busy days or meal planning. Whether it’s a family dinner, potluck gathering, or weeknight treat, this casserole is sure to please both adults and children alike.

The story behind the casserole’s name adds a charming touch, connecting it to the vast South Texas ranch that has stood for more than a century.

So, gather your ingredients, follow the straightforward instructions, and let the comforting aroma of King Ranch Casserole fill your kitchen. Serve it with your favorite sides and experience the joy of sharing a delicious and heartwarming meal with your loved ones.