Doritos Casserole with Ground Beef Recipe | Easy and Cheesy Weeknight Dinner
Introduction
Doritos casserole with ground beef is the ultimate comfort food that combines bold flavors with simple, satisfying ingredients. Every bite offers a crunchy, cheesy, and savory experience that delights both kids and adults alike. The appeal of this dish lies in its versatility and ease of preparation. Ground beef provides a hearty and protein-rich base, while crushed Doritos create a unique texture and intense flavor that is impossible to resist. Unlike traditional casseroles, which can sometimes feel heavy or bland, the addition of Doritos brings a playful crunch that enhances every mouthful.
Ingredients Needed
Creating a Doritos casserole with ground beef requires a mix of pantry staples and fresh ingredients. Below is a table outlining the essentials along with approximate calorie counts to help you plan your meal.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories per Serving |
|---|---|---|
| Ground beef (85% lean) | 1 pound | 960 |
| Doritos chips (Nacho Cheese) | 6 ounces | 840 |
| Shredded cheddar cheese | 2 cups | 450 |
| Cream of mushroom soup | 1 can (10.5 oz) | 200 |
| Sour cream | 1 cup | 480 |
| Onion (diced) | 1 medium | 45 |
| Garlic cloves | 2 | 10 |
| Green bell pepper | 1 medium | 25 |
| Taco seasoning | 1 packet | 70 |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon | 0 |
| Black pepper | ½ teaspoon | 0 |
| Olive oil | 1 tablespoon | 120 |
Total approximate calories: 3200 for the whole casserole, serving about 6-8 people.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly with olive oil or non-stick spray to prevent sticking. - Prepare the Ground Beef
Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a tablespoon of olive oil, then sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until fragrant and slightly translucent. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain excess fat to ensure the casserole is not greasy.You can also explore Beef Meatballs_ for a unique twist. - Season the Meat
Sprinkle taco seasoning over the cooked beef, stirring well to evenly coat. Add salt and black pepper to taste. If desired, you can also add a small splash of water or beef broth to help distribute the seasoning. - Mix the Creamy Layer
In a separate bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup with sour cream. Mix thoroughly until smooth. Add the sautéed vegetables into this mixture if you want extra flavor. - Layer the Casserole
Begin by placing half of the crushed Doritos at the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Spread the seasoned ground beef over the Doritos layer. Pour the soup and sour cream mixture evenly over the meat. Sprinkle one cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top. Finish by adding the remaining Doritos and topping with the rest of the cheese. - Bake the Casserole
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. The cheese should be melted, bubbly, and lightly golden, and the Doritos on top should achieve a crispy texture. - Cool and Serve
Allow the casserole to cool for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the layers set slightly, making it easier to - cut and serve.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
Adding personal touches can elevate this casserole to a gourmet-level dish. Consider these ideas:
- Vegetables: Include diced tomatoes, corn, or black beans to increase nutritional value and add a pop of color.
- Cheese Variations: Swap cheddar for Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese for a spicier kick.
- Meat Options: Ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of beef for a lighter version.
- Doritos Flavors: Nacho Cheese works well, but Cool Ranch or Spicy Sweet Chili can bring new layers of flavor.
- Toppings: Garnish with sliced green onions, jalapenos, or fresh cilantro to enhance taste and presentation.
- Spice Levels: Add hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the meat mixture for heat.
Nutritional Information
Understanding the nutritional profile helps in balancing indulgence and health:
Although this dish is indulgent, it provides protein and energy, making it a hearty meal option for families and gatherings. Pairing it with a fresh side salad can help balance the richness.
Serving Suggestions
Doritos casserole with ground beef pairs beautifully with various side dishes. A crisp garden salad with a light vinaigrette complements the cheesy richness. Steamed vegetables such as broccoli or green beans also provide freshness and color contrast. For a more indulgent meal, serve it alongside garlic bread or warm tortillas. This casserole can be portioned into single servings and reheated easily, making it ideal for leftovers or meal prep.
For gatherings, consider serving in a large baking dish at the center of the table with toppings like diced tomatoes, avocado, or salsa on the side. Guests can customize their portions, adding extra cheese, sour cream, or jalapenos according to taste.
Doritos Casserole with Ground Beef Recipe | Easy and Cheesy Weeknight Dinner
Course: Blog6-8
servings15
minutes30
minutes400
kcalIngredients
1 pound ground beef (85% lean)
6 ounces Doritos chips (Nacho Cheese)
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
1 cup sour cream
1 medium onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 medium green bell pepper, diced
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook the vegetables and beef: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté diced onion and minced garlic until fragrant. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Season the meat: Add taco seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
- Prepare the creamy mixture: In a bowl, mix cream of mushroom soup with sour cream until smooth. Add sautéed vegetables if desired.
Recipe Video
Notes
- For a spicier version, add diced jalapenos or a splash of hot sauce to the meat mixture.
You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Freeze unbaked casserole for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes. Prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, cover with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready to serve, adding 5 to 10 extra minutes to ensure it is heated through.
Can I freeze Doritos casserole?
Absolutely. Assemble the casserole and freeze before baking. Wrap tightly in foil and store for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
Is it possible to make a vegetarian version?
Yes. Substitute ground beef with plant-based crumbles or cooked lentils. Add more vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers for heartiness.
How can I make it spicier?
Incorporate diced jalapenos, hot sauce, or use a spicy Doritos flavor. Adjust seasonings to your heat preference.
Can I use low-fat ingredients?
Certainly. Use lean ground beef, reduced-fat cheese, and low-fat sour cream. This reduces calories while keeping the dish creamy and flavorful.
Conclusion
Doritos casserole with ground beef is more than just a meal; it is a celebration of flavors, textures, and convenience. Its crispy Doritos topping, cheesy layers, and savory ground beef make it a crowd-pleaser that is perfect for family dinners, gatherings, and casual meals. With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, anyone can create a dish that tastes indulgent while remaining approachable.
