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This Dorito Casserole combines creamy textures, seasoned beef, melted cheese, and crunchy Doritos into a dish that quickly becomes a family favorite. It works perfectly for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or casual gatherings where you want something comforting and fun. The mix of crispy and creamy in every bite makes it a real winner at our table.
I first made this casserole on a busy weeknight, and my kids begged for it again the next day. Now it’s a staple whenever I need a quick, crowd-pleasing meal.
Ingredients
- Ground beef: 500 grams for hearty protein look for lean beef to reduce excess fat
- Small onion: chopped finely to add sweetness and depth
- Garlic: minced to bring a fragrant, savory note
- Taco seasoning packet: brings bold, familiar Mexican-inspired spices
- Salsa: adds moisture and tang choose your favorite jar or fresh salsa for more brightness
- Canned corn: drained for sweet pops of texture
- Canned black beans: rinsed well for a creamy and earthy contrast
- Sour cream: adds richness and balances spices full fat gives the best texture
- Cream of mushroom soup or cream of chicken: to create a silky base for the casserole
- Shredded cheddar cheese: for gooey melted goodness sharp varieties add extra flavor punch
- Large bag of Nacho Cheese Doritos: crushed to create the signature crunchy layers
- Optional toppings: such as green onions jalapeños diced tomatoes and avocado brighten each serving and add freshness
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 180 degrees Celsius or 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures it is ready when your casserole is assembled and will bake evenly.
- Cook the Beef:
- In a skillet over medium heat brown the ground beef until no longer pink. Add chopped onion and minced garlic and sauté together until the onions are soft and translucent. Drain any excess fat to avoid greasiness. Stir in the taco seasoning and salsa and allow the mixture to simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes so the flavors blend beautifully.
- Mix the Creamy Base:
- In a mixing bowl combine sour cream cream of mushroom soup or cream of chicken corn and rinsed black beans. Mix well until fully incorporated. This creamy mixture will balance the spicy beef and add moisture to the casserole.
- Layer the Casserole:
- In a baking dish start by spreading a thin layer of crushed Doritos on the bottom. Add half of the beef mixture evenly on top. Spread half of the creamy mixture next followed by a generous layer of shredded cheese. Repeat these layers finishing with cheese and a few crushed Doritos on top to ensure a crispy crust after baking.
- Bake:
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the cheese is melted bubbling and golden on top. Let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes after baking before cutting to allow the casserole to set which helps with clean slices.
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My favorite ingredient is definitely the Nacho Cheese Doritos. They bring a bold crunch and cheesy punch that nobody can resist. This recipe always reminds me of family game nights where we gather around the table sharing laughter and passing around plates of this irresistible casserole.
Storage tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To keep the Dorito topping crisp when reheating place the casserole in a preheated oven instead of the microwave and heat until bubbling. For longer storage freeze the casserole without the Doritos topping for up to two months. Add fresh chips just before serving.
Ingredient substitutions
If you want a lighter version swap ground beef for shredded chicken seasoned with taco seasoning. To make it vegetarian omit the meat and add extra black beans and corn. Use baked tortilla chips instead of Doritos for fewer calories but similar crunch. Sour cream can be replaced with Greek yogurt for a tangier flavor and extra protein.
Serving suggestions
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or a side of guacamole. Drizzle hot sauce over individual portions for added heat or serve with a dollop of cooling Greek yogurt to balance the spice. Adding diced tomatoes and sliced avocado on top freshens the dish and adds lovely color.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble it in advance without the top layer of Doritos and keep it refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking.
- → Is there a vegetarian option?
Absolutely, substitute the beef with extra beans and corn for a filling vegetarian alternative that keeps the same creamy texture.
- → How do I ensure a crispy Dorito topping after baking?
Adding crushed Doritos on top just before baking helps keep the crunch intact. Letting the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes after baking also helps set the layers.
- → Can I use chicken instead of beef?
Yes, shredded chicken seasoned with taco spices works well for a lighter, yet equally flavorful version.
- → How should leftovers be stored and reheated?
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for 3–4 days or freeze up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven to preserve the crunchy top layer.