Easy Mexican Dorito Casserole (Kid-Friendly & Budget-Friendly Dinner!)

If you're searching for a family-friendly, budget-conscious, and flavor-packed meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds, look no further than this Mexican Dorito Casserole! This easy casserole recipe is made with layers of cheesy goodness, seasoned ground beef, creamy soup, and crunchy nacho cheese Doritos, making it the perfect weeknight dinner for busy parents.

Not only is it quick to prepare, but it's also a great way to use up pantry staples. Whether you're hosting a casual dinner or meal prepping for the week, this easy Dorito casserole will be your new go-to comfort food.

Why You'll Love This Mexican Dorito Casserole

Kid-approved: Crunchy chips, cheesy topping, and taco meat? Yes, please!

Quick & easy: On the table in under 45 minutes.

Budget-friendly: Uses canned and common grocery store items.

Freezer-friendly: Perfect for doubling and freezing for later.

Versatile: Easily customizable with what you have on hand. Like deer meat venison if there’s a hunter in the family.

Ingredients

Here's what you’ll need to make this delicious Mexican-inspired casserole. Most of these items are probably already in your pantry!

1 lb. ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option)

1 small onion, chopped

1 (1 oz) packet taco seasoning

1/2 cup water

1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom)

1/2 cup sour cream

1 (10 oz) can Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided

1 (9.75 oz) bag nacho cheese Doritos, crushed lightly

Optional: chopped green onions, black olives, or jalapeños for topping

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.

Cook the meat: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion until the beef is browned and the onion is tender. Drain any excess grease.

Season: Stir in the taco seasoning and water. Let simmer for about 5 minutes until thickened.

Mix the filling: In a large bowl, combine the taco meat, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, Rotel, and 1 cup of the shredded cheese. Mix until well combined.

Layer the casserole:

Spread a layer of crushed Doritos on the bottom of the prepared baking dish.

Top with half of the meat mixture.

Add another layer of Doritos and then the remaining meat mixture.

Finish with the remaining Doritos and sprinkle the rest of the cheese on top.

Bake: Cover loosely with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serve: Garnish with chopped green onions, black olives, or jalapeños if desired. Serve hot!

What to Serve with Dorito Casserole

This dish is filling on its own, but here are a few simple side options that pair perfectly:

Mexican rice or Spanish rice

Refried beans or black beans

A crisp green salad with lime vinaigrette

Corn on the cob or elote (Mexican street corn)

Fresh fruit or avocado slices for a refreshing contrast

How to Store & Reheat Leftovers

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: This casserole freezes beautifully! Just assemble in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months.
To reheat: Warm individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire dish in the oven at 350°F until heated through.

Make It Your Own: Variations & Substitutions

This Mexican Dorito Casserole is super versatile! Here are some ways to switch things up:

Vegetarian version: Use black beans or lentils instead of meat.

Spicy twist: Add a can of diced jalapeños or pepper jack cheese.

Healthier option: Use baked tortilla chips and Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.

Double the protein: Mix in a can of drained pinto beans or corn for extra texture and nutrients.

Why This Recipe is Great for Busy Families

As a single mom and full-time teacher, I know how hard it is to get a meal on the table after a long day. This recipe saves time, reduces dishes (hello, one pan!), and satisfies picky eaters. It’s also a great recipe to bring to potlucks or to prep ahead on weekends when you know your week will be chaotic.

Final Thoughts

If your family loves tacos, nachos, or anything with gooey cheese and a little crunch, they’ll devour this Mexican Dorito Casserole. It’s a fun twist on taco night that’s hearty, comforting, and simple to throw together.

So, grab that bag of Doritos and whip up a dish the whole family will request again and again!

Pin It for Later!

Want to save this recipe? Make sure to pin it on Pinterest and follow @diana_chastain_ for more easy family meals, budget dinners, and parenting hacks!

Written by Diana Chastain from Nanny to Mommy

Nanny to Mommy