Baked Taco Casserole with Doritos and Ground Beef

A hearty family-friendly casserole that combines seasoned ground beef with black beans, corn, and salsa, topped with melted Mexican cheese and crushed Doritos for a satisfying crunch. This easy weeknight dinner delivers all the flavors of tacos in convenient casserole form, perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping. The Doritos topping adds a fun twist that kids and adults alike will love, while the one-dish format makes cleanup a breeze.
Ingredients
Instructions
- 1
Preheat oven to 350°F
- 2
Cook ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until browned and drain excess fat
- 3
Add taco seasoning and water according to packet instructions and simmer for a few minutes
- 4
Combine cooked beef, black beans, corn, and salsa in a large bowl
- 5
Transfer mixture to a baking dish
- 6
Top with shredded cheese and crushed Doritos
- 7
Bake for 20-25 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly
- 8
Serve hot
Tips
Crush Doritos in the bag before opening to avoid mess and ensure even distribution over the casserole.
Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes after baking to help it set up and make serving easier.
Good to Know
Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days in covered container
Can assemble casserole up to 1 day ahead without Dorito topping, add chips just before baking
Serve with sour cream, guacamole, or additional salsa
Common Mistakes
Add Doritos just before baking to prevent them from getting soggy
Drain ground beef well to avoid watery casserole
Substitutions
FAQ
Can I freeze this taco casserole?
Yes, freeze assembled casserole without Doritos for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and add chips before baking.
What if I don't have taco seasoning packets?
Make your own with chili powder, cumin, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and salt to taste.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Replace ground beef with extra black beans, lentils, or plant-based ground meat substitute for similar texture.