Name: Dorito Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1/2 cup onion, diced; 1 packet taco seasoning (or 3 tbsp homemade); 1 1/2 cups thick salsa; 1 cup sour cream; 1 cup corn; 1/2 cup black beans; 2 cups shredded cheese; 4 cups crushed Nacho Cheese Doritos; 1/2 cup tomatoes, diced; 1/2 cup black olives, diced; 1/4 cup green onions, sliced

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Dorito Casserole is a fun, cheesy, and flavorful dish layered with seasoned ground beef, salsa, sour cream, black beans, corn, and plenty of Nacho Cheese Doritos. Baked until golden and bubbly, this Tex-Mex–inspired comfort food is easy to make and perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or family gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This casserole is a crowd-pleaser that combines all the best taco flavors in one dish. The Doritos add a crunchy, cheesy base that softens slightly during baking while still keeping their signature flavor. It’s simple to prepare, customizable with your favorite toppings, and hearty enough to feed a family. Every bite is loaded with Tex-Mex goodness!

Dorito Casserole

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 pound ground beef
1/2 cup onion, diced
1 packet taco seasoning (or 3 tablespoons homemade)
1 1/2 cups thick salsa
1 cup sour cream
1 cup corn
1/2 cup black beans
2 cups shredded cheese
4 cups crushed Nacho Cheese Doritos
1/2 cup tomatoes, diced
1/2 cup black olives, diced
1/4 cup green onions, sliced

Directions

Preheat the oven to 375°F. Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef for 4–5 minutes, breaking it up with a spatula. Drain excess fat.
Add the diced onion and cook for another 3–4 minutes until softened.
Stir in taco seasoning and cook for 1 more minute.
Add salsa, black beans, and corn, mixing until combined. Turn off heat, then stir in the sour cream.
Layer 1/3 of the crushed Doritos on the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Top with half of the meat mixture and 1/3 of the cheese.
Repeat with another 1/3 of the Doritos, the remaining meat mixture, and 1/3 of the cheese.
Finish with the last 1/3 of the Doritos and the remaining cheese.
Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 15 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Remove from oven, then top with diced tomatoes, olives, and green onions. Serve hot with sour cream, salsa, and guacamole.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 6 servings.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour

Variations

Protein Options: Swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even shredded rotisserie chicken.
Spice Level: Add diced jalapeños or hot salsa for more heat.
Vegetarian Version: Skip the beef and use extra beans, corn, or sautéed veggies like bell peppers and zucchini.
Cheese Variety: Use a mix of Monterey Jack, cheddar, or pepper jack for extra flavor.
Individual Servings: Make mini casseroles in ramekins for personalized portions.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F for 15–20 minutes, or microwave individual portions for 1–2 minutes.
Freezing: Assemble the casserole without toppings, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

FAQs

Can I use different flavors of Doritos?

Yes, try Cool Ranch or Spicy Nacho Doritos for a different twist.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the casserole (without baking) up to 24 hours in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake as directed when ready to serve.

Do the Doritos stay crunchy after baking?

They soften slightly but retain some crunch, especially the top layer.

What’s the best cheese to use?

Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend all work great.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, double the ingredients and bake in two 9×13 pans to feed a crowd.

Is this casserole gluten-free?

Not as written, since Doritos contain gluten. Use a gluten-free chip alternative if needed.

Can I add rice to this casserole?

Yes, add 1–2 cups of cooked rice to the meat mixture for extra bulk.

How do I make it creamier?

Add a can of condensed cream of chicken or cream of mushroom soup to the meat mixture.

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?

Yes, Greek yogurt works as a lighter substitute.

What toppings go best with this casserole?

Sour cream, salsa, guacamole, jalapeños, shredded lettuce, or extra cheese are all delicious.

Conclusion

Dorito Casserole is the ultimate comfort food with layers of seasoned beef, melty cheese, and crunchy Doritos baked to perfection. It’s easy, customizable, and perfect for family dinners or potlucks. Serve it with fresh toppings and sides, and watch it disappear—this dish is sure to become a go-to favorite!