This Dorito Casserole with Ground Beef is the ultimate comfort food mashup, combining the bold flavors of Doritos chips with a hearty, cheesy beef casserole. It’s like nachos in casserole form—layered with seasoned ground beef, creamy cheese, and crunchy Doritos for a satisfying crunch on top. Perfect for game days, family dinners, or potlucks, this dish is easy to make, endlessly customizable, and guaranteed to be a hit with kids and adults alike. Let’s whip up this fun, flavorful casserole and enjoy every cheesy, beefy bite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bold Flavors: The zesty kick of Doritos pairs perfectly with seasoned beef and melty cheese.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make it perfect for busy nights.
- Customizable: Add toppings like jalapeños, sour cream, or guacamole to suit your taste.
- Kid-Friendly: Who can resist a dish topped with crunchy chips?
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Casserole:
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey/chicken for a lighter option)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade blend: chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper)
- 1 cup water or beef broth
- 1 can (15 oz) refried beans (optional, for extra heartiness)
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel), drained
- 2 cups shredded Mexican-blend cheese (divided)
For the Topping:
- 1 bag (9–10 oz) Doritos chips, lightly crushed (leave some chunks for crunch!)
- Optional toppings: sour cream, guacamole, salsa, chopped green onions, jalapeños
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat and Prep
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook the Beef Mixture
- Heat the olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes, until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned and no longer pink (about 6–8 minutes). Drain excess fat if needed.
- Stir in the taco seasoning, water (or broth), refried beans (if using), and diced tomatoes with green chilies. Simmer for 5 minutes to let the flavors meld.
3. Assemble the Casserole