Ground Beef Doritos Casserole Recipe

This Ground Beef Doritos Casserole is a cheesy, crunchy, and flavor-packed comfort food classic. Loaded with seasoned ground beef, melty cheese, and layers of crunchy nacho cheese Doritos, this easy-to-make casserole is perfect for busy weeknights, game days, or family gatherings. It’s a crowd-pleasing dish that’s as fun to eat as it is easy to prepare!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy—ready in under 40 minutes
• Cheesy, crunchy, and packed with bold flavors
• Perfect for weeknight dinners or party food
• Customizable with your favorite toppings
• A family-friendly recipe everyone will love

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 packet taco seasoning mix
• 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel), undrained
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend)
• 1 bag (9.75 oz) nacho cheese Doritos, slightly crushed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For toppings (optional):

• Chopped green onions
• Sliced jalapeños
• Fresh cilantro
• Diced tomatoes
• Sour cream

Directions

this recipe

1. Preheat oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook the beef mixture:
   • Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add diced onions and cook until softened (about 3 minutes).
   • Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess grease.
   • Stir in taco seasoning, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and cook for 2-3 minutes.
3. Mix the filling:
   • Remove from heat and stir in the cream of mushroom soup and sour cream until well combined.
4. Assemble the casserole:
   • Spread half of the crushed Doritos evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
   • Add half of the beef mixture over the chips, then sprinkle with 1 cup of shredded cheese.
   • Repeat the layers with the remaining Doritos, beef mixture, and cheese.
5. Bake:
   • Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Garnish and serve:
   • Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes. Top with green onions, jalapeños, cilantro, diced tomatoes, or extra sour cream if desired. Serve warm.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 30 minutes
• Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Doritos Casserole: Use spicy nacho Doritos and add extra jalapeños or hot sauce for a fiery kick.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace ground beef with black beans, lentils, or a meat substitute.
• Chicken Doritos Casserole: Swap the ground beef for shredded rotisserie chicken.
• Low-Carb Version: Replace Doritos with crushed pork rinds or low-carb tortilla chips.

Storage/Reheating

• Store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions.
• Freeze: Assemble the casserole without baking, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a Mexican blend also work well in this recipe.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the casserole a day ahead, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. Bake it just before serving.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great lean substitute that works just as well with the seasonings.

How do I keep the Doritos from getting soggy?

Layer the Doritos just before baking, and avoid adding too much liquid to the beef mixture.

Can I use plain tortilla chips instead of Doritos?

Yes, but the flavor will be milder. Add extra taco seasoning or cheese to boost the taste.

Is this casserole spicy?

The heat level depends on the type of Doritos and diced tomatoes you use. Use mild ingredients if you prefer less spice.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free taco seasoning and cream of mushroom soup, and check that your Doritos are gluten-free.

What sides go well with this casserole?

Serve with a side of Mexican rice, refried beans, or a simple green salad.

Can I freeze individual portions?

Yes, freeze portions in airtight containers for easy meal prep. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.

How do I make this recipe creamier?

Add extra sour cream or a splash of heavy cream to the beef mixture for a creamier texture.

Conclusion

This Ground Beef Doritos Casserole is a cheesy, crunchy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or game day parties. Easy to prepare and packed with bold, Tex-Mex flavors, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite. Customize it with your favorite toppings, and watch it disappear fast at any gathering!

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