I must admit, I’ve never been a huge casserole lover. While living in Texas, I was always mystified by the popularity of this Lone Star favorite. After our resident Texan and Test Kitchens Professional Vanessa McNeil Rocchio shared her family’s from-scratch King Ranch Chicken Casserole recipe with our staff, I finally got it. This is the true definition of comfort food: soft, warm, cheesy layers of chicken and tortilla with a subtle hint of green chile to remind us of its origins. We even offer an equally delicious lightened version. It also travels well, making it a great choice to take to a covered-dish dinner. I’m betting that after one taste of this rich, creamy dish, you’ll be hooked too.

"Our Favorite Casserole" is from the February 2008 issue of Southern Living.