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Transform your taco night with this crowd-pleasing Mexican casserole that layers seasoned beef, melted cheese, and crunchy Doritos into a satisfying one-dish meal. This family-favorite recipe delivers all the beloved taco flavors in an easy-to-serve casserole format.
The beauty of this casserole lies in its versatility - it's equally suited for casual family dinners or potluck gatherings. The combination of flavors and textures keeps everyone coming back for more.
Key Ingredients
- Ground Beef: Choose 85% lean for optimal flavor and texture
- Doritos: Nacho Cheese flavor provides the perfect seasoned crunch
- Black Beans: Adds hearty protein and authentic Mexican flavor
- Mexican Cheese: A blend of cheeses creates the ideal melting texture
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Preparation Steps
- Prepare the Meat Base:
- Brown beef with onions until fully cooked. Season thoroughly and drain excess fat. The meat should be well-seasoned but balanced.
- Create the Filling:
- Combine meat with corn and beans. Mix in salsa and half the cheese. Ensure mixture is moist but not watery.
- Layer the Casserole:
- Start with crushed Doritos, add meat mixture, top with remaining cheese. Keep layers loose for proper texture.
Baking Temperature
Bake at 350°F until cheese melts completely and edges become lightly crispy. Monitor closely in the final minutes.
Serving Suggestions
Arrange fresh toppings in separate bowls so each person can garnish their portion. Fresh ingredients should be added just before eating.
Advance Preparation
Prepare the meat mixture up to 24 hours ahead. Store separately from chips and assemble just before baking.
Storing and Reheating
Transform leftover casserole into burritos or taco filling. The flavors develop nicely overnight.
Professional Tips
- Create a crunchy edge by adding chips around the dish sides
- Properly drain meat to prevent sogginess
- Reserve some crushed chips for serving
This versatile casserole proves that creative cooking often yields the most memorable recipes. It's perfect for any occasion where you want to serve satisfying Mexican-inspired comfort food.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can this dish be prepped in advance?
- Yes, cook the beef mixture ahead of time, but add the chips and cheese right before baking so they stay crisp.
- → Is there a substitute for the chips?
- Swap Doritos for plain tortilla chips or any other crunchy corn chip you like.
- → Can different meats be used?
- Definitely! Ground turkey or chicken make flavorful substitutes for beef.
- → How should I store any extras?
- Keep leftovers in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 3 days, but be aware the chips may soften over time.
- → How can this be turned vegetarian?
- Simply leave out the meat and toss in more beans and vegetables to keep it hearty and filling.