Name: Beef Dorito Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 packet taco seasoning; 1 small yellow onion, diced; 1 green bell pepper, diced; 1 can Rotel (diced tomatoes with green chilies), drained; 1 cup sour cream; 1 can cream of mushroom soup (10.5 oz); 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 4 cups Nacho Cheese Doritos, crushed

Craving a weeknight dinner that’s bold, beefy, cheesy, and utterly addictive? The Beef Dorito Casserole might just become your next go-to comfort dish. It’s got everything: layers of spiced ground beef, gooey melted cheese, and that unmistakable crunch from nacho cheese Doritos. A true crowd-pleaser that wins over adults and kids alike.

This casserole is the kind of recipe that feels like a hug in a dish. It brings together classic Tex-Mex flavors with a cheesy, baked twist that’s both satisfying and low-effort. Whether you’re hosting friends or feeding hungry teens, this dish holds its own at the table and reheats like a dream.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into the layers of cheesy goodness, make sure you’ve got these essential tools on hand:

Large Skillet: Crucial for browning the beef and sautéing onions and peppers evenly. A deep skillet helps avoid splatters and keeps your mixture contained.
Mixing Bowl: Ideal for combining the beef mixture with sour cream, taco seasoning, and cheese before layering. A wide bowl gives you space to stir everything together thoroughly.
9×13-Inch Casserole Dish: This is the hero dish that will bake everything into bubbly, golden perfection. The size ensures even baking and perfect depth for layers.
Silicone Spatula or Spoon: Makes spreading each layer easier without breaking the chips or over-mixing the filling.
Aluminum Foil (optional): Useful for covering the dish mid-bake if the top starts browning too quickly.

Once your tools are prepped and ready, you’re only steps away from diving into the cheesy, crunchy magic of this casserole.

Ingredients for the Beef Dorito Casserole

Each ingredient in this dish has a job to do—from adding flavor and texture to creating that gooey, crave-worthy finish.

Ground Beef: The hearty base of the casserole. Go for 80/20 for best flavor without too much grease.
Taco Seasoning: This is where the Tex-Mex flavor kicks in. Adds depth, smokiness, and spice.
Yellow Onion: Sautéed with the beef, it brings sweetness and savory balance.
Green Bell Pepper: Adds a subtle crunch and a fresh contrast to the creamy textures.
Rotel (Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies): Brings tang, moisture, and a mild heat that lifts the whole dish.
Sour Cream: Creamy and cooling, it binds the filling while taming the spices.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: Adds richness and a smooth, comforting consistency.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Melts into golden deliciousness and ties every bite together.
Nacho Cheese Doritos: The signature crunch! They give the casserole its bold, fun twist.

How To Make the Beef Dorito Casserole

Step 1: Brown and Season the Beef

Heat your skillet over medium-high heat and add the ground beef. Cook until it’s fully browned, then add chopped onions and diced green pepper. Continue cooking until vegetables are tender. Drain any excess fat. Stir in taco seasoning and Rotel. Let it simmer for a few minutes so flavors meld.

Step 2: Mix in the Creamy Elements

Remove the skillet from heat and stir in sour cream and cream of mushroom soup. Mix until everything is well incorporated and creamy.

Step 3: Layer the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish. Start with a layer of crushed Doritos at the bottom. Spoon half of the beef mixture over the chips, sprinkle on shredded cheese. Repeat layers: Doritos, beef mixture, cheese.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Cover loosely with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 10 minutes or until the cheese on top is melted and bubbly.

Step 5: Let It Set and Serve

Allow the casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes before scooping. Top with green onions, extra crushed chips, or a drizzle of hot sauce if you like it fiery!

How to Serve and Store Beef Dorito Casserole

Once baked, this casserole is best served warm with a side of tangy salsa or a simple green salad to balance the richness. You can top each serving with fresh cilantro, chopped green onions, or even a dollop of guacamole for extra flair. It’s also a fun dish for gatherings—serve it in a bowl with extra Doritos on the side and let guests scoop their way to happiness.

For storage, let the casserole cool to room temperature, then cover it tightly or transfer to an airtight container. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave or pop the entire dish back in the oven at 325°F until heated through. Note: The chips will soften over time, but the flavor holds strong.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of Doritos works best?

Nacho Cheese Doritos are the classic pick because they complement the beef and cheese perfectly. You can also try Spicy Nacho or Cool Ranch for a flavor twist.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the casserole up to the baking step and store it covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready to serve.

Is there a substitute for cream of mushroom soup?

Cream of chicken soup or cream of cheddar soup works well if you prefer a different base. For a homemade option, a roux-based white sauce can also substitute.

How can I make this casserole spicier?

Add chopped jalapeños to the beef mixture or use spicy taco seasoning. A drizzle of hot sauce or pepper jack cheese also adds a nice kick.

Can I freeze this casserole?

It’s possible, but note that the texture of the Doritos may not hold up well. If freezing, consider assembling without chips, then adding fresh ones when reheating.

What can I serve with this dish?

It pairs wonderfully with a corn salad, Mexican street corn, or even just some seasoned black beans on the side for a heartier meal.

Want More Casserole Dinner Ideas?

You might also like the Delicious Beef Bowtie Pasta, a creamy tomato-based dish that brings ground beef into a pasta-lover’s dream. Or try the Pepperoni Pizza Casserole, layered with pasta, marinara, cheese, and zesty pepperoni for a family-style pizza fix.

If you love Tex-Mex vibes, don’t miss the Taco Bake Casserole—it’s bold, beefy, and layered like a lasagna with serious flair. Or check out the Sloppy Joe Casserole, a nostalgic twist packed with saucy meat and buttery biscuits.

For a creamy indulgence, the Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole might just hit the spot. It’s veggie-forward but still satisfies like comfort food should.

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If you give this Beef Dorito Casserole a try, let me know! Did you add jalapeños? Swap out the cheese? Leave a comment below—I love seeing how others make these recipes their own.

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Beef Dorito Casserole

Author: Julia Koch
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6 servings

Print Recipe

Description

This Beef Dorito Casserole layers savory ground beef, melty cheddar cheese, sour cream, and crushed Nacho Cheese Doritos into one bubbly, golden bake. A Tex-Mex inspired comfort dish that’s weeknight-friendly and always a hit with the whole family.