Dorito Casserole Recipe

Name: Dorito Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8
Ingredients: 1 pound lean ground beef; 1 cup chopped yellow onion; 1 cup chopped red bell pepper; 1 (1-ounce) packet taco seasoning; 1/2 cup water; 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chiles, drained; 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 cup sour cream, plus more for serving; 1 (9 1/4-ounce) bag nacho cheese or cool ranch Doritos®, lightly crushed (about 5 cups); 3 cups shredded cheddar-jack cheese; 1 chopped tomato, or to taste for serving 2 sliced green onion, or to taste; 2 tabelspoons chopped fresh cilantro, or to taste; 1/2 cup salsa, or to taste

Cook Time: 35 minutes

Barrett Heald, a recipe tester, describes this delicious Dorito casserole as a great weeknight dinner, and its so good that she even took the leftovers home for her family!

Ingredients

1 pound lean ground beef
1 cup chopped yellow onion
1 cup chopped red bell pepper
1 (1-ounce) packet taco seasoning
1/2 cup water
1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chiles (such as ROTEL), drained
1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup sour cream, plus more for serving
1 (9-ounce) bag nacho cheese or cool ranch Doritos, lightly crushed (about 5 cups)
3 cups shredded Cheddar-Jack cheese
For serving: 1 tomato, chopped (or to taste), 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (or to taste), 1/2 cup salsa (or to taste)

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your mouth-watering Dorito casserole:

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350F (175C). Lightly grease a 3-quart baking dish with nonstick spray.

Step 2: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess grease.

Step 3: Add the chopped onion and red bell pepper to the skillet. Continue cooking for about 5 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.

Step 4: Sprinkle in the taco seasoning and add the water. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, until it thickens slightly.

Step 5: Stir in the drained diced tomatoes, black beans, and sour cream. Mix everything well.

Step 6: Sprinkle 1 1/2 cups of the crushed Doritos on the bottom of your prepared baking dish.

Step 7: Spoon about half of the beef and vegetable mixture over the Doritos layer.

Step 8: Top the meat mixture with another 1 1/2 cups of crushed Doritos and 1 1/2 cups of shredded Cheddar-Jack cheese.

Step 9: Repeat the layering with the remaining beef mixture, Doritos, and cheese.

Step 10: Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, or until the casserole is melted and bubbly.

Step 11: Remove from the oven and top with chopped tomato, green onions, and fresh cilantro. Serve with salsa and additional sour cream if desired.

Test Kitchen Tips

Feel free to use any Dorito flavor you like, from Nacho Cheese to Cool Ranch. Get creative!
Pair your Dorito casserole with your favorite side salad for a complete meal.

Storage Tips

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, its best to use the oven rather than the microwave to avoid soggy chips.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Nutrition	Amount
Calories	653
Total Fat	36g (46% DV)
Saturated Fat	15g (75% DV)
Cholesterol	109mg (36% DV)
Sodium	1322mg (57% DV)
Total Carbohydrate	47g (17% DV)
Dietary Fiber	9g (31% DV)
Protein	36g (71% DV)
Vitamin C	45mg (50% DV)
Calcium	429mg (33% DV)
Iron	4mg (23% DV)
Potassium	967mg (21% DV)

Nutrition facts are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your daily values may vary based on your calorie needs.

Dorito Casserole Recipe

The History and Cultural Background of Dorito Casserole

Dorito Casserole, sometimes called a Taco Dorito Bake, is a modern American comfort food that blends Tex-Mex flavors with the convenience of pre-packaged ingredients. Its roots can be traced back to the late 20th century when home cooks began experimenting with boxed snack foods like Doritos as a shortcut for traditional Mexican-inspired dishes. The casserole format made it popular in busy households because it allowed families to stretch ingredients like ground beef, beans, and cheese while adding the bold, familiar taste of Doritos. This dish embodies the creative, casual spirit of American home cooking, especially in regions where Tex-Mex cuisine is beloved.

Regional Variations

While Dorito Casserole can be made anywhere in the United States, it is particularly popular in the South and Midwest. In Texas, for example, cooks often emphasize spicier taco-seasoned beef and sometimes include jalapeos or green chilies to heighten the flavor. Midwestern variations may lean toward a milder, creamier style, often incorporating sour cream and multiple cheeses. Some versions layer additional ingredients like corn, pinto beans, or even chopped onions and peppers, reflecting regional produce availability and personal taste preferences. The choice of Dorito flavorNacho Cheese, Cool Ranch, or Spicy Sweet Chilialso varies by locale, influencing the dishs overall character.

Distinguishing Dorito Casserole from Similar Dishes

While reminiscent of traditional Mexican dishes like chilaquiles or layered taco casseroles, Dorito Casserole is unique due to its use of branded snack chips as a structural and flavor element. Unlike tacos or enchiladas that rely on tortillas, this casserole incorporates crushed Doritos in multiple layers, which adds both seasoning and crunch that softens when baked. It differs from nacho-based dishes as well; while nachos are typically served as a shared appetizer with minimal preparation, the casserole is baked as a complete, self-contained entre. This combination of convenience, cheesiness, and chip-based texture makes it a distinctively American take on Tex-Mex flavors.

Typical Serving Contexts

Dorito Casserole is commonly served as a weeknight family dinner or at casual gatherings. It is ideal for potlucks, parties, or game-day events because it is easy to prepare in large quantities and can be customized to suit different tastes. Home cooks often top it with fresh tomatoes, cilantro, green onions, or a dollop of sour cream, transforming it from a simple casserole into a crowd-pleasing centerpiece. Leftovers reheat well, though the Doritos layer will lose some crispness, making it perfect for the next days lunch or dinner.

Interesting Facts and Trivia

The dish is part of a broader trend in American cuisine that incorporates snack foods into homemade recipes, sometimes called convenience fusion cooking.
Despite its casual origins, Dorito Casserole has inspired numerous variations, including vegetarian versions using beans or lentils instead of meat, or even breakfast-inspired adaptations with eggs and sausage.
Some home chefs report that using Cool Ranch Doritos versus Nacho Cheese drastically changes the flavor profile, illustrating how branded snacks influence the final taste.
The recipe has gained a loyal following online, with communities sharing tweaks such as swapping black beans for pinto beans, adding cream of chicken soup, or mixing different cheeses for richer texture.
It demonstrates the inventive American approach to repurposing leftovers, as many cooks originally created the dish to use up leftover taco meat or bags of Doritos.

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FAQ about Dorito Casserole Recipe

Leftover Dorito casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. For best results, reheat it in the oven to maintain the texture of the Doritos.

Yes, you can freeze Dorito casserole. To freeze, allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil before placing it in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat it in the oven.

To reheat Dorito casserole, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the casserole with aluminum foil to prevent the chips from getting too hard, and heat for about 20-25 minutes until hot and bubbly. You can also microwave individual portions, but the texture may not be as crispy.

Yes, you can substitute the Doritos with any other chips of your choice, such as tortilla chips or even Ranch-flavored chips. However, the flavor profile may change slightly depending on the type of chip used.

Yes, you can prepare the casserole in advance. Assemble it up to the point of baking, then cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. When you're ready to bake, just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time to ensure it heats through.

Absolutely! You can substitute the black beans with other types of beans such as pinto beans, kidney beans, or even refried beans. The choice of beans will slightly change the texture but still complement the dish well.

Feel free to experiment with different toppings! Some great options include diced avocado, shredded lettuce, jalapeño slices, or a drizzle of hot sauce. You can also use sour cream, salsa, and chopped cilantro for extra flavor.

Yes, you can make Dorito casserole vegetarian by replacing the ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives, such as crumbled tofu, lentils, or a vegetarian meat substitute. You can also add extra vegetables for a more hearty dish.

Yes, you can use any cheese you like. If you're not a fan of Cheddar-Jack cheese, you can substitute with shredded mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack cheese for a spicier version.

If your Dorito casserole turns out too dry, you can try adding extra sour cream or salsa before serving to increase the moisture. You can also drizzle some additional broth or water over the casserole before baking to help it stay moist.

Comments

julieb

10/06/2025 01:52:54 PM

I would like to comment on the posts made by others who never made this casserole. I am disappointed that they are still on here and have not been removed. Secondly, people are very capable of chosing to make this or not. Third, I do plan on making this with some modifications. Left over taco shells, I season my own taco meat and do not use store bought, using fresh peppers, i will be adding a jalapeno for a kick, I do not like canned tomatos, so not adding. I will serve with taco ingredients, lettuce, tomatos, onions, sour cream. Let others make this as written or alter it. Don't speak negatively about a recipe you have never made or tried. Its a great recipe for those on a tight budget.

Anna Cruz

02/13/2024 11:37:18 PM

I’m literally in love ❤️

UniqueCrisp4525

09/10/2023 10:39:01 PM

I tried this one night to get rid of some Doritos and leftover taco meat. It was such a hit that it’s become a staple on our family menu. On different occasions I’ve subbed chicken for beef, ranch Doritos for the nacho cheese, or tortilla chips for Doritos. Every time it comes out great so if you don’t think you can make this to your taste or diet restrictions you’re probably wrong.

LLL

03/10/2024 07:28:37 PM

I reviewed how to make this from others suggestions. I made my own taco seasoning which lowered the salt. I chose 1/2 & 1/2 turkey and beef. I used reduced fat mexican & cheddar cheese. I may lower from 3 to 2 cups next time. I used low fat sour cream and fat free plain yogurt. Let's face it- it has a bag of Doritos, but why not lower calories where I can. I chose unsalted beef broth instead of water as I had some in the fridge. May consider another can of unsalted black beans as we love those. My husband definitely wants this added to the rotation.

CalmScale8796

01/20/2024 12:58:24 AM

Dorito Casserole was absolutely delicious, but I added extra sour cream and black beans to my mixture. I also added green onion and extra shredded sharp cheddar and monterey jack cheese. Taste like a new and improved Taco Bell mexican pizza. This recipe is a must.

BHemp

09/04/2023 08:32:35 PM

Substitute corn for the black beans, add chili, chili beans, cream of chicken soup, cream of celery soup and increase hamburger to 3 pounds. Use large roaster to cook. Increase other ingredients as well of course. I have been serving this recipe to my family for years and it goes over amazingly well. Everyone LOVES IT!!

DreamyPeach4116

09/05/2023 09:51:53 PM

Yes it's a sodium bomb - kinda of given away in the title as Dorito Casserole! But is it good? Also yes. I used refried beans instead of black beans since we didn't have any - worked just fine. I added less cheese and more veggies because that's what we had. Cooking is not about sticking to a recipe religiously but more of taking it as a guide and running with it. You do you but we liked it.

Lisa H

10/10/2023 11:18:11 PM

We liked this recipe a lot! I used low salt and no salt versions of diced tomatoes plus canned diced green chiles, black beans, and Mrs. Dash taco seasoning. You could use different cheeses per your personal taste. There are so many ways you can alter this recipe for you. It's a keeper!

SilverDip7816

09/26/2023 06:27:00 AM

I added 4 cheese Mexican cheese and lettuce with the toppings. Delicious 😋

N5232P

04/03/2025 03:29:24 AM

I will be honest, normally these are not the type of recipes I would make. Prepackaged food as an ingredient just isn’t my thing. But I had not had Doritos in a long time so why not. It does take a little time to make, I did my own taco seasoning because I find the packets to salty. My thought was the Doritos also have seasoning and that is what I want to taste, not the taco seasoning from some other company. So brown the meat with onions and add just a little of basic Mexican seasons. pepper, garlic, Mexican oregano, paprika, cumin, chili powder, Cayenne, chipotle, coriander. Finally salt to taste as the last thing before assembly. Next time I want to add more cheese on top and maybe some cream cheese inside. Have fun.

mtabor711

09/14/2023 04:40:43 PM

I made it last night, and my family loved it.I substituted the black beans with a can of pinto beans. IT TURNED OUT GREAT, that we went back for seconds.

TxCin2

08/27/2025 05:43:18 PM

This was good. It had a nice mexican flavor but wasn't spicy. I didn't have exact ingredients, but I used the closest substitute I had. I used jarred chopped pimento peppers and a quarter of a sweet onion chopped, then cooked it down until it disintegrated as I like onion flavor, but dislike the texture. I didn't have Ro-tel, but used Hatch chili pepper salsa with tomatoes instead. There were too many beans, so half a can would have been more to my liking. This was rather dry even with the sour cream and the salsa. Mine was well done by 19 minutes, and perhaps even a bit overcooked at that, so do check it as your timing may vary from the test kitchens' oven. This did fall apart when trying to dish up a serving. This would be a great way to repurpose yesterday's taco meat into a new meal. I'd fix this again.

Miranda Flamond

07/25/2025 11:30:50 PM

Even my boyfriend can make this... and it's still good lol

SpeedySole1600

07/25/2025 09:38:15 PM

So easy to make. Family loves it.

Bunny

07/18/2025 07:41:41 AM

Delicious! I used pinto beans since I don’t care for black beans. This is so good!

Diana

07/13/2025 12:22:43 AM

Made as directed, except for the onions and peppers, which were left out because my husband said all the fresh ones were bad. I mixed the chips and cheese for the topping. It was better with the salsa on top.

NickiK

06/21/2025 06:14:00 PM

Great recipe. I used ground turkey and my homemade taco seasoning. It's a good comfort food.

FlashyMango7350

06/14/2025 10:30:11 PM

I made this for my son all the time he was growing up! I make it now for my husband. I add a can of cream of chicken and some milk to soften the chips. Sometimes I use corn tortillas instead of chips.

WobblyUdo8258

06/12/2025 02:03:14 AM

Amazing, I made no changes this time, I really want to use taco flavor Doritos, I'm gonna try half size, not sure if you can freeze leftovers

SappyToast5055

05/09/2025 11:54:49 PM

Perfect! If you haven't made this you must! Don't buy cheap black beans (get Bush's) however and cilantro is a must.

Dorito Casserole Recipe

Ingredients

Instructions

Test Kitchen Tips

Storage Tips

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

The History and Cultural Background of Dorito Casserole

Regional Variations

Distinguishing Dorito Casserole from Similar Dishes

Typical Serving Contexts

Interesting Facts and Trivia

FAQ about Dorito Casserole Recipe