Description
This Dorito Casserole is a quick, easy, and satisfying one-dish meal perfect for busy weeknights. It combines seasoned ground beef, a creamy sauce, and plenty of cheese, all layered between crunchy Doritos for a textural and flavorful delight. Ready in just about an hour!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb Ground Beef (or ground turkey, plant-based meat)
- 1 small Onion, diced
- 1 can (10 oz) Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies
- 1 can (10.75 oz) Cream of Chicken Soup
- 1 cup Sour Cream
- 1 ½ cups Shredded Cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 1 bag (10.75 oz) Doritos, crushed
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Cook the ground beef and diced onion in a skillet over medium heat until the beef is browned. Drain any excess fat.
Step 3: Stir in the diced tomatoes, cream of chicken soup, and sour cream into the skillet with the beef. Warm the mixture through for about 5 minutes.
Step 4: Layer half of the crushed Doritos at the bottom of your prepared baking dish.
Step 5: Follow this with half of the beef mixture, spreading it evenly over the Doritos. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese on top.
Step 6: Repeat the layering with the remaining crushed Doritos, beef mixture, and shredded cheese.
Step 7: Bake the casserole for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown.
Step 8: Remove from the oven and let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving. This allows the layers to set slightly and prevents it from being too runny.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Dorito Casserole is more than just a meal; it’s a nostalgic comfort food experience! The combination of savory ground beef, creamy sauce, and the undeniable crunch and flavor of Doritos creates a symphony of textures and tastes that’s hard to resist. It’s incredibly easy to make with minimal prep time, making it a lifesaver on busy weeknights. Plus, it’s easily customizable – swap the ground beef for ground turkey or a plant-based alternative, use different flavors of Doritos, or add your favorite veggies for a personalized twist. Kids and adults alike will devour this cheesy, crunchy casserole!
DRINK Rating
Pairings:
- Soda: A classic pairing! A cool and crisp soda complements the richness of the casserole.
- Beer: A light, refreshing beer such as a pale ale can cut through the cheesy sauce.
- Margarita: A vibrant margarita is an excellent pairing if you want to lean into the Mexican flavors.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve hot, straight from the oven.
- Garnish with fresh chopped green onions or diced tomatoes for added flavor and color.
- Add a dollop of sour cream or guacamole for extra richness.
- Serve with a side of Mexican rice or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
- For a spicier kick, serve with a side of jalapeños or your favorite hot sauce.
Tips:
- Don’t over-crush the Doritos; you want them to retain some texture.
- For a creamier casserole, use a full-fat sour cream.
- To prevent the Doritos from becoming soggy, add them just before baking.
- If you like a crispier top, broil the casserole for the last minute or two of baking, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
- Feel free to add other vegetables such as corn, black beans, or bell peppers to the beef mixture.
Preparation Time:
15 minutes
Cook Time:
25-30 minutes
Total Time:
40-45 minutes
Nutrition Information:
(Note: Nutritional information is approximate and will vary based on specific ingredients used.)
- Calories: 450-550 per serving (estimated)
- Protein: 25-35g per serving (estimated)
- Sodium: 700-900mg per serving (estimated)
Conclusion
The Dorito Casserole is more than just a recipe; it’s an experience! With its irresistible blend of savory, creamy, and crunchy textures, it’s sure to become a family favorite. It’s perfect for potlucks, casual gatherings, or simply a comforting weeknight meal. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a casserole that’s as fun to make as it is to eat!
Questions and Answers
Q1: Can I use different flavors of Doritos?
A: Absolutely! Experiment with different flavors of Doritos to add your own unique twist to the casserole. Nacho Cheese, Cool Ranch, or Spicy Nacho would all be delicious choices.
Q2: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. However, it’s best to add the Doritos just before baking to prevent them from becoming soggy.
Q3: Can I freeze this casserole?
A: While you can freeze the casserole, the texture of the Doritos may change upon thawing. If you do freeze it, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Thaw completely before baking.
Q4: Can I use ground turkey or a plant-based meat substitute instead of ground beef?
A: Yes, both ground turkey and plant-based meat substitutes work well in this recipe. Just make sure to cook them thoroughly before adding them to the casserole.
Q5: Can I add more vegetables to this casserole?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the beef mixture. Corn, black beans, bell peppers, and onions would all be great additions.
