Are you looking for a dinner idea that’s quick, delicious, and guaranteed to please the whole family? This beef Dorito casserole is the answer!
Layers of crunchy Doritos, flavorful ground beef, creamy sour cream, and gooey melted cheese come together to create a dish that’s as fun to eat as it is to make.
Perfect for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers, this casserole will quickly become a household favorite!
Here’s how to create this irresistible casserole using simple ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Family-Friendly: A dish everyone will enjoy, from kids to adults.
- Bold Flavors: Cheesy, crunchy, and packed with taco-seasoned beef—it’s a fiesta in a dish!
- Customizable: Adjust the spice level or toppings to suit your taste.
- Quick and Easy: Minimal prep and simple ingredients make it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Great for potlucks, game days, or casual get-togethers.
Beef Dorito Casserole Recipe
For this delicious casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Ingredients
Serves: 6-8
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps sauté the beef and onion, adding flavor and preventing sticking.
- 1 pound ground beef: The hearty base for the casserole, providing rich flavor and protein.
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped: Adds a savory sweetness that enhances the beef mixture.
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade mix): Brings bold, zesty flavors to the dish.
- 1 cup salsa (mild, medium, or hot based on preference): Adds moisture and a spicy kick, balancing the richness of the beef.
- 1 cup sour cream: Creamy and tangy, it creates a smooth layer that complements the spiced beef.
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend): The melty, cheesy goodness that holds everything together.
- 1 bag (10 oz) Doritos chips, crushed: Adds a satisfying crunch and a bold, cheesy flavor.
- 2 medium tomatoes, diced: Fresh and juicy, these provide a bright contrast to the rich casserole.
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced: Adds a pop of color and a mild onion flavor.
Optional Toppings
- Additional sour cream: For a creamy finish on top.
- Salsa: Adds extra moisture and a spicy kick.
- Fresh cilantro leaves: Brightens the dish with fresh, herbal notes.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Beef Mixture
- Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly with olive oil or non-stick spray and set aside. - Cook the Beef and Onion
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and chopped onion, breaking up the beef with a wooden spoon or spatula as it cooks. Sauté for 7-8 minutes until the beef is browned and fully cooked, and the onions are soft and translucent. - Add Flavor
Drain any excess grease from the skillet to keep the dish from becoming oily. Stir in the taco seasoning and salsa, mixing thoroughly. Let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
Step 2: Assemble the Casserole
- Layer the Doritos
Spread a layer of crushed Doritos chips evenly over the bottom of the prepared baking dish. This creates a crunchy base for the casserole. - Add the Beef Mixture
Spoon the seasoned beef mixture over the Doritos, spreading it evenly to cover the chips completely. - Layer the Sour Cream
Using the back of a spoon, gently spread the sour cream over the beef layer. Take care not to mix the layers. - Sprinkle Cheese
Sprinkle 1 ½ cups of shredded cheese over the sour cream layer, ensuring even coverage. The cheese acts as a glue, holding the layers together as they bake.
Step 3: Bake and Garnish
- Top with Doritos and Cheese
Sprinkle a generous layer of crushed Doritos over the cheese layer. Follow with the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheese for an extra cheesy, golden topping. - Bake
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden around the edges. - Garnish and Serve
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly for 5 minutes. Garnish with diced tomatoes, green onions, and your choice of optional toppings like sour cream, salsa, or fresh cilantro.
Tips for Success
- Layer Carefully: Take your time spreading each layer evenly to ensure the casserole bakes uniformly.
- Adjust Heat Levels: Choose mild, medium, or hot salsa and taco seasoning to suit your spice tolerance.
- Use Fresh Doritos: Fresh chips maintain their crunch better during baking. Stale chips can become chewy.
- Don’t Overbake: Remove the casserole as soon as the cheese is bubbly to avoid drying out the layers.
Serving Suggestions
- With a Side Salad: Pair this rich casserole with a crisp green salad or coleslaw to balance the flavors.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet, buttery corn complements the spicy, cheesy notes perfectly.
- Rice or Quinoa: Serve alongside rice or quinoa for a heartier meal.
- Tortilla Chips and Dip: Offer chips with guacamole, salsa, or queso for a fun appetizer or side.
- Roasted Vegetables: Lightly roasted zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus add a healthy touch.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigerator Storage
- Cool the casserole completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezer Storage
- To freeze, portion the casserole into freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating Instructions
- Oven Method: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole (or a portion) in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for 20-25 minutes, or until warmed through. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes to crisp up the top layer.
- Microwave Method: For individual portions, microwave on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
- Air Fryer: For a crispy topping, reheat small portions in the air fryer at 320°F (160°C) for 5-7 minutes.