If you’re on the hunt for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that’s bursting with flavor and a delightful crunch, look no further than the Doritos Casserole.
This hearty and cheesy casserole combines seasoned ground beef, creamy sauces, and a generous layer of Nacho Cheese Doritos.
It’s an easy-to-make, satisfying meal that will become a family favorite.
Perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients
For the Casserole
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 packet taco seasoning mix
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 1 green bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
– 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup
– 1 can (10 ounces) Rotel tomatoes and green chilies, undrained
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 large bag (10.5 ounces) Nacho Cheese Doritos, slightly crushed
For Topping (Optional)
– 1/2 cup sliced black olives
– 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– Sour cream for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
1. Set the Oven Temperature
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 2: Prepare the Ground Beef Mixture
1. Cook the Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it is browned and fully cooked,
Then break it up into small pieces with a spatula as it cooks.
2. Add Vegetables
Add the chopped onion and diced green bell pepper to the skillet.
Cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened.
3. Season
Stir in the taco seasoning mix and 1/2 cup of water.
Simmer for 5 minutes until the seasoning is well incorporated and the mixture thickens slightly.
Step 3: Mix the Creamy Base
1. Combine Soups and Tomatoes
In a large bowl, mix together the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, and Rotel tomatoes and green chilies until well combined.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
1. Layer the Ingredients
In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a layer of slightly crushed Doritos on the bottom.
Top with half of the ground beef mixture, then half of the soup mixture.
Sprinkle with 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
2. Repeat Layers
Add another layer of crushed Doritos, the remaining ground beef mixture, and the remaining soup mixture.
Top with the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
1. Cover and Bake
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
2. Uncover and Continue Baking
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 6: Add Toppings and Serve
1. Optional Toppings
If desired, sprinkle the casserole with sliced black olives, diced tomatoes, chopped green onions, and chopped cilantro.
2. Serve
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.
Serve with a dollop of sour cream on top for an extra creamy touch.
Tips for the Perfect Doritos Casserole
1. Customize Your Ingredients
Feel free to add or substitute ingredients based on your preferences.
You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef, or add extra vegetables like corn or black beans.
2. Spice Level
Adjust the spice level to your liking by using mild, medium, or hot Rotel tomatoes and green chilies.
3. Cheese Choices
Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or a Mexican blend for a different flavor profile.
4. Keep it Crunchy
To maintain the crunchiness of the Doritos, add some fresh crushed Doritos on top just before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Doritos Casserole is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways:
– Main Course: Serve it as the main dish with a side salad or steamed vegetables.
– Potluck Favorite: Bring it to a potluck or family gathering, and watch it disappear in no time.
– Leftovers: Enjoy the leftovers for lunch or dinner the next day. Simply reheat in the oven or microwave.
Storage and Leftovers
1. Refrigerate
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
2. Reheat
Reheat individual servings in the microwave, or reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
3. Freeze
You can freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 2 months.
Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
Conclusion
The Doritos Casserole is a deliciously crunchy and cheesy dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Its combination of seasoned ground beef, creamy soups, and the irresistible crunch of Doritos makes it a standout recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this casserole is guaranteed to impress.
