Exploring the Iconic Texas Monthly King Ranch Casserole

If you're a Texan or a lover of Tex-Mex cuisine, chances are you've heard of the legendary King Ranch Casserole. Featured in Texas Monthly, this dish has become a staple in many Southern kitchens. Let's take a closer look at what makes this casserole so special and how you can recreate it in your own home.

1. Origin of the King Ranch Casserole:

The King Ranch Casserole is believed to have originated from the famous King Ranch in South Texas, one of the largest ranches in the world. Its exact origins are unclear, but it's been a favorite comfort food among Texans for decades.

texas monthly king ranch casserole

2. Ingredients:

To make this savory casserole, you'll need:

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 can cream of mushroom soup
• 1 can cream of chicken soup
• 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 12 corn tortillas, cut into strips
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

texas monthly king ranch casserole

3. Instructions:

Preparing the Casserole:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the diced onion and bell pepper until softened.
3. Add the shredded chicken, cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, diced tomatoes with green chilies, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir until well combined and heated through.
4. In the prepared baking dish, layer half of the tortilla strips on the bottom.
5. Spread half of the chicken mixture over the tortillas, then sprinkle with half of the shredded cheese.
6. Repeat the layers with the remaining tortilla strips, chicken mixture, and shredded cheese.

Baking the Casserole:

1. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes.
2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
3. Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.

4. Serving Suggestions:

• Garnish the casserole with chopped fresh cilantro, diced avocado, and a dollop of sour cream for extra flavor.
• Serve alongside a fresh green salad or Mexican rice for a complete meal.

5. Conclusion:

The Texas Monthly King Ranch Casserole is a beloved Texan dish that's perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where you want to enjoy hearty and flavorful comfort food. With its layers of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and melted cheese, this casserole is sure to become a favorite in your household too. Gather your ingredients and give this iconic recipe a try for a taste of Texas tradition!