This hearty casserole combines seasoned ground beef with diced tomatoes, creamy cheddar soup, and crunchy Doritos, all topped with melted cheddar cheese. Quick to prepare, it uses simple steps—browning the beef, mixing flavorful ingredients, layering over crushed Doritos, and baking until bubbly. Ideal for weeknights, each bite offers gooey cheese, satisfying crunch, and zesty taco-inspired goodness. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings when you want comfort food fast.
This creamy zesty Dorito casserole is what I make when everyone needs a smile fast The crunchy chips melty cheese and hearty beef come together in just half an hour for a weeknight meal that tastes like a party but comes together with pantry basics This is that comfort food shortcut you will reach for over and over
I first whipped this up on a busy soccer night and now it always disappears in minutes at my table The Dorito crunch makes it a top request from everyone
Ingredients
- Ground beef: This provides a savory base Look for eighty to eighty five percent lean for flavor without excess grease
- Taco seasoning: Adds instant layers of spice Choose a low sodium packet if you prefer less salt
- Diced tomatoes with green chilies:Brings tang and just enough heat Use well drained fire roasted for smoky depth
- Condensed cheddar cheese soup:Binds the casserole and makes it ultra creamy Campbell’s brand works well here but any thick cheese soup will do
- Milk: Loosens the mixture for saucy results Whole milk gives the richest texture
- Doritos: Bring the iconic crunch and cheesy flavor Cool Ranch or Nacho Cheese both deliver
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts on top for a gooey finish Always opt for freshly shredded if time allows it melts better and tastes fresher
Instructions
- Brown The Beef:
- Sauté ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat until fully browned and crumbly Stir gently and do not rush this part as caramelization gives a deeper flavor Drain off any excess fat so the casserole is not greasy
- Mix The Sauce:
- Add the taco seasoning the can of diced tomatoes with green chilies condensed cheddar cheese soup and milk into the browned beef Stir well to combine and let this mixture simmer for about five minutes This step infuses the beef with all that punchy seasoning
- Layer The Doritos:
- Crush half of the Doritos lightly so there are both small bits and some larger shards Spread them evenly in the bottom of a nine by thirteen inch baking dish This gives every bite the signature Dorito experience
- Add The Beef Mixture:
- Spoon the beef and sauce mixture carefully over the Dorito layer Distribute evenly with a spatula so every section gets saucy goodness
- Top With More Doritos And Cheese:
- Sprinkle the remaining crushed Doritos on top for texture and finish with a generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese covering every bit for even melting
- Bake The Casserole:
- Place the dish in the preheated oven at three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit Bake for fifteen to twenty minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbling The edges should be just starting to brown for maximum crunch
