Introduction
Dorito casserole is a delightful dish that combines the crunch of everyone's favorite nacho cheese chips with savory layers of beef, creamy sauces, and melted cheese. It's a dish that evokes nostalgia and is perfect for family gatherings or casual weeknight dinners.
This casserole is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a meal that's both satisfying and full of flavor. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is designed to bring joy and comfort to your table.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 can (10 oz) Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 large bag (9.75 oz) Nacho Cheese Doritos, crushed
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional)
Directions & Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat.
- Add water, cream of chicken soup, and drained Rotel tomatoes to the skillet. Stir well to combine and let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the sour cream and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until evenly mixed.
- In a large casserole dish, layer half of the crushed Doritos on the bottom.
- Spread the beef mixture evenly over the Doritos layer.
- Top the beef mixture with the remaining crushed Doritos and sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese on top.
- For added flavor, sprinkle chopped green onions over the cheese if desired.
- Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

FAQs
What can I do if my casserole is too dry?
If your casserole turns out dry, consider adding a bit more sour cream or a splash of broth to the mixture before baking.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, feel free to substitute cheddar with Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a spicier kick.
What if my ground beef is too greasy?
Ensure to drain off excess grease after browning the beef to prevent a greasy casserole.
Can I add vegetables to the casserole?
Absolutely! Chopped bell peppers or black beans can be added to enhance flavor and nutrition.
What if I want a spicier version?
You can add jalapeños to the beef mixture or use spicy Rotel to increase the heat.
How can I scale this recipe for a larger crowd?
Simply double the ingredients and use a larger casserole dish, adjusting baking time as necessary.
Conclusion
Dorito casserole is a crowd-pleaser that combines comfort food with a fun twist. It’s ideal for potlucks, family dinners, or even a cozy night in.
With its layers of flavor and crunch, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your home. Gather your ingredients and enjoy the process of creating this hearty meal!
Recipe Card

Comforting Dorito Casserole for Family Gatherings
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 can 10.5 oz cream of chicken soup
- 1 can 10 oz Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese divided
- 1 large bag 9.75 oz Nacho Cheese Doritos, crushed
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions optional
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat.
- Add water, cream of chicken soup, and drained Rotel tomatoes to the skillet. Stir well to combine and let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the sour cream and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until evenly mixed.
- In a large casserole dish, layer half of the crushed Doritos on the bottom.
- Spread the beef mixture evenly over the Doritos layer.
- Top the beef mixture with the remaining crushed Doritos and sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese on top.
- For added flavor, sprinkle chopped green onions over the cheese if desired.
- Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Notes
Additional serving suggestions: pair with a crisp salad, garlic bread, or roasted seasonal vegetables for balance.
For make-ahead, prep components separately and assemble just before heating to preserve texture.
Taste and adjust with acid (lemon/vinegar) and salt right at the end to wake up flavors.