Baked Taco Casserole with Doritos and Ground Beef

Prep: 15 minCook: 25 min6 servingsmediumMexican
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

6 servings
  • 1 lb ground beef
    ground turkey1:1

    Use same cooking method

    Full guide →
  • 1 packet taco seasoning
  • 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can corn, drained
  • 1 cup salsa
  • 2 cups shredded cheese, Mexican blend
    cheddar cheese1:1

    Works well but less complex flavor

    Full guide →
  • 1 bag Doritos, crushed
    tortilla chips1:1

    Less flavor but still provides crunch

Instructions

  1. 1

    Preheat oven to 350°F

  2. 2

    Cook ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until browned and drain excess fat

  3. 3

    Add taco seasoning and water according to packet instructions and simmer for a few minutes

  4. 4

    Combine cooked beef, black beans, corn, and salsa in a large bowl

  5. 5

    Transfer mixture to a baking dish

  6. 6

    Top with shredded cheese and crushed Doritos

  7. 7

    Bake for 20-25 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly

  8. 8

    Serve hot

Tips

Tip 1

Crush Doritos in the bag before opening to avoid mess and ensure even distribution over the casserole.

Tip 2

Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes after baking to help it set up and make serving easier.

Good to Know

Storage

Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days in covered container

Make Ahead

Can assemble casserole up to 1 day ahead without Dorito topping, add chips just before baking

Serve With

Serve with sour cream, guacamole, or additional salsa

See pairing guide →

Common Mistakes

Watch

Add Doritos just before baking to prevent them from getting soggy

Watch

Drain ground beef well to avoid watery casserole

Substitutions

ground beef
ground turkey1:1

Use same cooking method

Full guide →
Mexican cheese blend
cheddar cheese1:1

Works well but less complex flavor

Full guide →
Doritos
tortilla chips1:1

Less flavor but still provides crunch

Full guide →
Find more 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.