Taco Doritos Casserole Bake
This Taco Doritos Casserole Bake is a quick, flavorful, and comforting one-dish meal that blends the bold flavors of seasoned meat, crunchy nacho cheese Doritos, melted cheese, and rich sauces to create a cheesy, crunchy casserole perfect for busy weeknights and family dinners.
- Author: Elena
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 2 cups nacho cheese Doritos, crushed fresh
- 2 cups shredded cheese blend (cheddar and Monterey Jack recommended)
- 1 can (15 oz) refried beans or black beans, drained
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 green onions, chopped or 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Optional: 1/2 cup salsa or diced tomatoes
- Cook the Meat: Brown the ground beef or turkey in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat, then stir in the taco seasoning and a splash of water. Let simmer briefly to infuse flavors.
- Prepare the Layers: Spread a layer of refried or black beans evenly on the bottom of a casserole dish. Sprinkle a generous amount of freshly crushed nacho cheese Doritos over the beans to form a crunchy base.
- Add Meat and Cheese: Evenly distribute the seasoned meat over the Doritos layer. Top with a layer of shredded cheese to ensure melty, comforting bites. Repeat layers if using a deeper dish.
- Bake Until Bubbly: Place the casserole in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is melted, golden, and bubbling.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes. Sprinkle with chopped green onions or fresh cilantro for brightness before serving.
Notes
- Use fresh Doritos: Crush just before layering to maintain crunchiness.
- Don’t skip resting time: Let casserole sit briefly after baking for easier serving and better set layers.
- Balance moisture: Avoid overly wet bean layers to prevent soggy Doritos.
- Double the cheese if you prefer a gooier melt.
- Add a dollop of sour cream on each serving for creamy contrast.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: Taco casserole, Doritos bake, cheesy casserole, quick dinner, family-friendly, gluten-free taco, Tex-Mex casserole