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This crowd-pleasing Dorito casserole comes together in just thirty minutes with bold flavors and gooey cheese layered over a crunchy chip base. My family falls in love with this one at every bite it is truly kid approved and so effortless for busy nights
The first time I made this my youngest could hardly wait for the cheese to cool before digging in It has become our weeknight hero that everyone requests
Ingredients
- Ground beef: buy the freshest possible for the juiciest flavor and quick cooking
- Taco seasoning: delivers classic Tex Mex flavor and a gentle spice
- Canned diced tomatoes with green chilies: choose a brand with ripe tomatoes for a zesty punch
- Condensed cheddar cheese soup: makes everything creamy and brings a rich cheese taste
- Milk: helps blend and smooth the sauce
- Doritos: crushed for crispy layers and pick your favorite flavor for extra personality
- Shredded cheddar cheese: opt for sharp cheddar and shred it fresh for the best melt
I have found that buying block cheese and grating it at home makes the casserole especially gooey
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Brown the Beef:
- Start by cooking ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat breaking it up with a spoon Cook until the beef is browned through and any juices have mostly evaporated This step should take about seven minutes and develops the base flavor for the entire casserole
- Season and Simmer:
- Add in the taco seasoning followed by the full can of diced tomatoes with green chilies the condensed cheddar cheese soup and the milk Stir everything together and reduce the heat Let the mixture simmer gently for five minutes allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken just slightly
- Layer the Base:
- Grease a nine by thirteen inch baking dish Spread half of your crushed Doritos evenly in the bottom of the pan You want to create a shallow crunchy bed for the meat mixture which helps keep things from getting soggy
- Add the Beef Filling:
- Carefully spoon the hot beef mixture across the Doritos base Use a spatula to spread it into an even layer which allows every bite to have some saucy cheese and seasoned meat
- Top and Bake:
- Finish by topping with the rest of the crushed Doritos and sprinkling the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the whole pan Place in your preheated oven on the center rack and bake for fifteen to twenty minutes until the cheese is bubbling and starting to brown in spots
- Cool and Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let sit for five minutes to set up slightly This makes it easier to scoop and brings all those layers together
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Storage Tips
Let the casserole cool completely before covering tightly and storing in the refrigerator It keeps well for up to four days Reheat portions in the oven or microwave for best results If you want to freeze it wrap portions individually and store in airtight containers Thaw overnight and reheat until steaming
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap ground beef with ground turkey or shredded rotisserie chicken for a slightly healthier twist Use black beans or corn in the filling to sneak in extra veggies You can mix cheeses try Colby Jack or Monterey Jack for a new flavor If you need to go gluten free choose a taco seasoning and soup without wheat
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is delicious with a simple green salad and some sliced avocados Serve with extra salsa or a dollop of sour cream My kids love adding a spoonful of jarred jalapenos or their favorite hot sauce for extra kick
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Cultural History
Dorito casserole became a sensation in American kitchens in the late twentieth century combining the convenience of pantry staples with bold snack chip flavors It is a comfort food classic that brings together the best of Tex Mex and American family cooking traditions
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use different Dorito flavors?
Yes, any Dorito flavor works well. Try ranch or spicy varieties to change up the taste.
- → What protein alternatives can I use?
Ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meats can replace ground beef for different tastes or diets.
- → How can I add more vegetables?
Add black beans, corn, or chopped bell peppers to the meat mixture for extra texture and nutrition.
- → Can this casserole be made ahead?
Prepare and refrigerate the casserole before baking. Add the final cheese topping right before baking for best results.
- → Is it freezer-friendly?
Yes, assemble and freeze before baking. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake as directed.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.