Doritos Taco Casserole

This Doritos taco casserole brings together all the best of a taco night in an easy, layered dish perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as a cozy family dinner. The combination of ground beef, seasoned tomatoes with green chilies, crunchy Doritos, and melty cheese creates a comforting blend of textures and flavors that makes every bite satisfying.

I first cooked this for a casual family get-together and it was an instant hit with both kids and adults. Ever since, it’s become a go-to for busy weeknights when I want something flavorful without a lot of fuss.

Ingredients

• Two cups Doritos: crushed finely to a breadcrumb texture add great binding and flavor without overpowering
• One cup Doritos: crushed loosely to give a crunchy topping that stays crisp after baking
• One pound ground beef: for a hearty and protein-packed base choose lean for less grease
• Half a yellow onion: diced finely to build flavor depth in the meat mixture
• One teaspoon minced garlic: adds aromatic warmth and a punch of savoriness
• Twelve ounces frozen corn: brings a touch of sweetness and a pop of texture
• One packet taco seasoning: for quick, bold flavor boosts use your favorite brand or homemade mix if preferred
• One 14.5 ounce can petite diced tomatoes with green chilies: contributes moisture and a gentle spicy kick do not drain to keep the casserole juicy
• One cup sour cream: adds creaminess and mild tang while balancing the spices
• Three cups Mexican cheese blend: for melty richness and authentic taste freshly shredded cheese works best for melting
• Optional garnishes: like sliced green onions diced tomatoes shredded lettuce avocado and extra sour cream to brighten and customize every serving

Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics:

In a large skillet cook the ground beef and diced onions over medium heat until the beef is browned and onions are soft about 7 to 8 minutes. Drain excess grease carefully to avoid sogginess later.

Add Garlic and Seasoning:

Stir in minced garlic and cook for one full minute so it releases its flavor evenly without burning. Next add the frozen corn taco seasoning and the entire can of diced tomatoes including juices to keep the mixture juicy and well seasoned.

Combine with Chips and Dairy:

Remove skillet from heat and gently mix in the two cups of finely crushed Doritos. Add the sour cream and two cups of shredded Mexican cheese. Stir all ingredients until uniform and creamy.

Prepare the Casserole Dish:

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and spray a 9 by 13 inch casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Bake the Filling:

Pour the prepared meat chip cheese mixture into the casserole dish spreading evenly. Bake uncovered for five minutes just until it heats through and the cheese begins melting.

Add Toppings and Finish Baking:

Sprinkle the remaining one cup of cheese evenly on top then sprinkle the loosely crushed Doritos over the cheese layer. Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional five minutes until the cheese is melted and the crunchy topping is slightly toasted.

Serve:

Remove casserole from the oven and let it sit a few minutes before serving. Garnish with your choice of green onions diced tomatoes shredded lettuce avocado or a dollop of sour cream to add freshness and texture.

My favorite part of this casserole is the crunchy top layer made from loosely crushed Doritos. It adds just the right amount of texture and keeps the casserole from feeling heavy. One family dinner I remember we ran out of the topping and improvised with tortilla chips. It wasn’t the same but still delicious and reminded me how easy it is to adapt.

Storage Tips

Keep leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. Avoid reheating multiple times to maintain the best texture especially of the crunchy topping.

Ingredient Substitutions

Ground turkey or chicken can replace beef for a lighter version. Use pepper jack cheese for extra spice or Monterey Jack for milder flavor. Swap frozen corn for fresh kernels when in season for a fresher bite. Plain diced tomatoes work fine if you do not have tomatoes with green chilies on hand.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a simple side salad tossed in lime vinaigrette to balance richness. Offer sliced avocado or guacamole to complement the spices and cheese. A dollop of extra sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce can elevate each portion for more zest.

This casserole blends convenience with bold flavors for a quick family favorite that satisfies every time.

FAQs about Recipes

→ Can I substitute the ground beef with another protein?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative while maintaining a similar texture and flavor profile.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

Adding extra diced green chilies, jalapeños, or a spicy taco seasoning can enhance the heat level to your preference.

→ What type of cheese works best for this casserole?

A Mexican cheese blend combines cheddar, Monterey Jack, and queso quesadilla perfectly for melting and rich taste.

→ Can I prepare this casserole in advance?

Yes, assemble the layers and refrigerate it overnight. Bake as directed before serving for best results.

→ Are there suitable garnishes to complement this dish?

Sliced green onions, diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, and avocado add freshness and bright flavors as garnishes.