Ground Beef Dorito Casserole

Introduction

If you love taco night, you’re going to adore Ground Beef Dorito Casserole. This casserole is a fun, indulgent twist on classic taco flavors, layering seasoned ground beef, gooey cheese, and crunchy Doritos to create a dish that’s both flavorful and comforting. It’s easy to make, family-friendly, and perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or game-day gatherings.

I love this recipe because it combines all the flavors I crave in a taco—savory beef, melted cheese, creamy sauce, and a satisfying crunch—into one simple, all-in-one casserole. Unlike traditional tacos, this dish requires minimal prep and cleanup, yet it delivers maximum flavor. The combination of creamy layers and crunchy Doritos creates a texture that is irresistible, and the dish can be easily customized to suit your taste.

It’s a must-try because it’s fun, versatile, and crowd-pleasing. Kids love it, adults love it, and it’s a guaranteed hit at gatherings. With its mix of bold flavors and textures, Ground Beef Dorito Casserole transforms simple pantry ingredients into a dish that feels like a special treat.

Recipe Information

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25–30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 6–8
• Calories per Serving: ~450 calories
• Course: Main Course / Casserole
• Cuisine: American / Tex-Mex

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tablespoons homemade taco seasoning)
• 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (drained)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup
• ½ cup sour cream
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
• 1 bag (10–11 oz) Doritos, crushed
• ½ cup sliced black olives (optional)
• 1–2 green onions, chopped (optional, for garnish)
• Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Preheat Oven

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 2: Cook the Beef

• In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef and diced onion until beef is browned and onions are soft.
• Drain excess fat.
• Add garlic and cook for another minute.
• Stir in taco seasoning and diced tomatoes with green chilies. Mix well.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

• In a bowl, mix together condensed soup and sour cream until smooth.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

1. Spread half of the crushed Doritos evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
2. Layer the cooked ground beef mixture on top.
3. Pour the sour cream and soup mixture evenly over the beef.
4. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
5. Add the remaining crushed Doritos and top with the remaining cheese.
6. Optionally, sprinkle sliced black olives on top.

Step 5: Bake

• Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 6: Garnish & Serve

• Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes.
• Garnish with chopped green onions and fresh cilantro before serving.

How to Serve

• Serve hot as a main dish with a side of sour cream, salsa, or guacamole.
• Pair with a green salad or corn salad for a balanced meal.
• Works well for potlucks or game-day parties because it’s easy to transport and reheat.

Recipe Tips

1. Crispier Doritos topping: For extra crunch, lightly toast the crushed Doritos in the oven for 3–5 minutes before layering.
2. Cheese options: Use a mix of cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for added flavor.
3. Vegetable boost: Add bell peppers, corn, or black beans to the beef mixture.
4. Avoid sogginess: Don’t overmix Doritos into the wet ingredients—they should remain on top for crunch.

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the beef mixture.
• Low-Carb: Skip the Doritos topping and use crushed pork rinds or almond flour for crunch.
• Taco Salad Style: Serve deconstructed over lettuce as a taco salad casserole.
• Tex-Mex Twist: Stir in cooked rice or quinoa for a heartier meal.
• Vegetarian Version: Replace beef with sautéed mushrooms, beans, or plant-based meat.

Freezing & Storage

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer (uncooked): Assemble the casserole without baking, wrap tightly, and freeze up to 3 months. Bake from frozen at 350°F for 35–40 minutes.
• Freezer (baked): Freeze cooled portions for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large skillet
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Mixing bowls
• Wooden spoon or spatula

FAQ

Q1: Can I use another type of chip instead of Doritos?
Yes! You can use tortilla chips, Fritos, or any crunchy corn chip you prefer.

Q2: Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Q3: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, but drain them well to avoid excess moisture.

Q4: Is this recipe spicy?
It depends on your taco seasoning. Use mild seasoning for a kid-friendly version or add extra spices for heat.

Conclusion

Ground Beef Dorito Casserole is the ultimate comfort food for taco lovers, combining the savory flavors of seasoned ground beef, creamy sauce, gooey cheese, and the addictive crunch of Doritos. It’s easy to prepare, family-friendly, and perfect for weeknights, gatherings, or potlucks. With endless variations and make-ahead options, this casserole is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Fun, flavorful, and utterly satisfying—this is one Tex-Mex dish you don’t want to miss!