Imagine your favorite taco night flavors packed into one cheesy, crunchy, and irresistible bite. That’s exactly what this Beef Dorito Casserole delivers. With layers of seasoned ground beef, melty cheddar, zesty salsa, and those unmistakable nacho cheese Doritos, it’s a comfort food dream that’s ready to steal the spotlight at your next dinner.

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, bringing a dish to a potluck, or just looking to spice up your weeknight menu, this casserole brings the flavor without the fuss. It bakes into a bubbly, golden-topped masterpiece that’s perfect for scooping onto plates and topping with all your favorite fixings like sour cream, diced tomatoes, and fresh cilantro.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you dive into layering cheesy, beefy goodness, make sure your kitchen is set up for success. Here’s what you need:

Large Skillet: To cook and season your ground beef evenly.
Mixing Bowls: Ideal for combining ingredients like sour cream, cream of mushroom, and salsa.
9×13-inch Casserole Dish: The perfect size for layering and baking this casserole to perfection.

Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Essential for breaking up beef while it browns and for stirring ingredients smoothly.
Aluminum Foil: Helps prevent the top from browning too quickly before the center is heated through.

Having the right tools not only makes prep easier but ensures your casserole cooks evenly and comes out just the way you want—melty, crunchy, and crave-worthy.

Ingredients for the Beef Dorito Casserole

Each ingredient in this casserole plays an important role in bringing big flavor and perfect texture. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ground Beef: The savory, hearty base of the casserole. Choose 80/20 for just enough fat to stay juicy without being greasy.
Taco Seasoning: Adds that classic Tex-Mex flavor to the beef.

Nacho Cheese Doritos: The ultimate crunchy layer and flavor boost. They replace a traditional crust or starch.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar melts beautifully and adds creamy richness.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: Gives the casserole a luscious, creamy texture that ties everything together.

Sour Cream: Balances the richness with a bit of tang.
Salsa: Brings moisture, spice, and a burst of tomato flavor.
Diced Tomatoes (optional topping): A fresh contrast to the rich interior.

Fresh Cilantro (optional garnish): Adds color and brightness.

How To Make the Beef Dorito Casserole

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until no longer pink. Drain any excess fat, then stir in taco seasoning and a splash of water. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes to absorb flavor.

Step 2: Mix the Creamy Base

In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and salsa. Stir until fully blended. This creamy mixture will keep the casserole from drying out.

Step 3: Preheat and Layer

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish. Spread a layer of slightly crushed Doritos on the bottom. Top with half the seasoned beef, half the creamy mixture, and a generous sprinkle of shredded cheddar.

Step 4: Repeat and Top

Add another layer of crushed Doritos, the rest of the beef, the remaining creamy mixture, and more cheese. Finish with a handful of Doritos on top for that extra crunch.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Cover the dish loosely with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving. Top with diced tomatoes, a dollop of sour cream, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro if desired.

Serving and Storing Beef Dorito Casserole

This casserole is best served hot, right out of the oven, when the cheese is gooey and the Doritos are crisp. Scoop generous portions onto plates and let everyone top theirs with sour cream, fresh tomatoes, avocado slices, or jalapeños for an extra kick.

Got leftovers? You’re in luck—this dish stores beautifully. Let it cool completely, then cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm individual servings in the microwave or pop the whole dish back in the oven at 300°F until heated through. Keep in mind the chips will soften over time, but the flavor only gets better!

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of ground beef should I use?

Stick with 80/20 ground beef for a good balance of flavor and moisture. Leaner beef can work too, but it might be a bit drier.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover it, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, add 5-10 extra minutes to the baking time.

Do I have to use cream of mushroom soup?

Not at all. You can swap it for cream of chicken or cream of cheddar if you prefer a different flavor profile.

How spicy is this dish?

That depends on your salsa and taco seasoning. Use mild versions for less heat or go bold with hot salsa and spicy seasoning.

Can I freeze Beef Dorito Casserole?

Technically yes, though the Doritos may lose their crunch. If you plan to freeze, assemble the casserole without the final top layer of chips, and add fresh ones just before baking.

What other toppings go well with this?

Try chopped green onions, sliced olives, diced red onions, or even a drizzle of hot sauce for extra personality.

Want More Casserole Ideas?

If this Beef Dorito Casserole hit the spot, you’re going to love these other cheesy, cozy, and totally satisfying dishes:

Mexican Cornbread Casserole for a spicy-sweet twist.
Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole packed with creamy layers.

Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole if you’re craving rich, classic comfort.
Cheesy Pizza Tater Tot Casserole with crispy tots and pizza flair.
Scalloped Corn Casserole for a buttery, golden-topped side.

Save This Recipe for Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so it’s ready when you need a crowd-pleasing comfort meal: Life With Olivia on Pinterest

And I’d love to hear how it turned out for you. Did you go extra cheesy? Toss in black beans or jalapeños? Drop a comment and share your version!

Let’s make weeknight cooking fun again. Questions, swaps, or just looking to rave? I’m all ears.

Beef Dorito Casserole

Author: Olivia McKenney
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6 servings

Print Recipe

Description

A cheesy, zesty, and crowd-pleasing casserole that combines seasoned ground beef, layers of nacho cheese Doritos, and creamy goodness into one baked dish. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or when you’re craving bold comfort food.