Layered Taco Casserole with Doritos & Ground Beef
Need a simple, crowd-pleasing dinner idea? This Layered Taco Casserole with Doritos & Ground Beef is a cheesy, crunchy, flavor-packed recipe your whole family will love. It's a Tex-Mex twist on comfort food—ready in about 40 minutes and made with easy pantry staples.
Why You’ll Love This Dorito Taco Casserole
- Quick prep – perfect for busy weeknights
- Ultra cheesy – melted layers of cheese throughout
- Crunchy base – crushed Doritos bring big flavor and texture
- Customizable – top it your way with olives, tomatoes, sour cream, or salsa
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 can corn (drained)
- 1 can black beans (rinsed & drained – optional)
- 1 1/2 cups salsa
- 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese
- 1 bag Nacho Cheese Doritos (9.75 oz), slightly crushed
- 1/2 cup chopped tomatoes
- 1/4 cup sliced black olives
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add taco seasoning and 1/2 cup water. Simmer for 3–5 minutes.
- Stir in corn, salsa, and beans (if using). Cook for another 2–3 minutes, then remove from heat.
- Layer 1/2 of the crushed Doritos in the bottom of the baking dish.
- Top with half the beef mixture, then sprinkle with 1 cup of cheese.
- Repeat with remaining Doritos, beef mixture, and cheese.
- Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and cheese is melted.
- Top with diced tomatoes, olives, and cilantro before serving.
Serving Tips
- Serve with sour cream or guacamole on the side.
- Add shredded lettuce after baking for extra crunch and color.
- Great with a side of Mexican rice or refried beans.
Make Ahead & Storage
- Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole (without the final cheese layer) up to 1 day in advance. Add cheese just before baking.
- To Store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To Reheat: Microwave individual portions or bake at 350°F for 10–15 minutes.
FAQ: Layered Taco Casserole
Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
A: Yes, ground turkey or chicken both work well as lighter alternatives.
Q: Will the Doritos stay crunchy?
A: They’ll soften slightly during baking but still offer a delicious texture and bold flavor.
Q: Can I freeze this taco casserole?
A: Yes, freeze before baking for best results. Thaw in the fridge overnight, then bake as directed.
Q: What toppings go best?
A: Diced tomatoes, green onions, sour cream, jalapeños, olives, shredded lettuce, or avocado slices.
Final Thoughts
This Layered Taco Casserole with Doritos & Ground Beef is everything you love about tacos in warm, cheesy casserole form. It’s fun, flavorful, and seriously satisfying—perfect for potlucks, casual dinners, or feeding a hungry family. Don’t be surprised if it becomes a regular in your dinner rotation!