Slow Cooker Ground Beef Dorito Casserole is a fun, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. This casserole combines seasoned ground beef, gooey cheese, and crunchy Doritos to create a delicious, crowd-pleasing meal. Let your slow cooker do all the work while you enjoy the comfort of this cheesy, savory delight. Serve it with a side salad or your favorite toppings for a complete meal.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Ingredients
- Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook Notes & Tips
- Variations
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients
For Slow Cooker Ground Beef Dorito Casserole
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix
- 1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (such as Rotel)
- 1 (10.5-ounce) can cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 (10-ounce) bag nacho cheese Doritos, crushed
- Fresh chopped cilantro, for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ground Beef
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion until the beef is browned and the onion is softened. Drain any excess fat.
- Stir in the taco seasoning mix and diced tomatoes with green chilies. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until well combined.
Step 2: Prepare the Slow Cooker
- Lightly grease the inside of a 6-quart slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray.
- Spread a layer of crushed Doritos on the bottom of the slow cooker.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup and sour cream until smooth.
- Layer half of the ground beef mixture over the crushed Doritos in the slow cooker.
- Spread half of the sour cream mixture over the beef, followed by 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
- Repeat the layers, ending with a final layer of shredded cheese.
- Sprinkle the remaining crushed Doritos over the top of the casserole.
Step 4: Cook
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-5 hours, or on high for 2-3 hours, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 5: Serve
- Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro before serving.
- Serve hot with your favorite toppings, such as diced tomatoes, jalapeños, or extra sour cream.
Cook Notes & Tips
- Ground Beef: You can use ground turkey or chicken as a lighter alternative to ground beef.
- Doritos: Nacho cheese Doritos work best, but you can use any flavor you like to customize the taste.
- Cheese: Feel free to use a blend of cheeses, such as cheddar and Monterey Jack, for added flavor.
Variations
- Spicy Dorito Casserole: Add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the ground beef mixture for extra heat.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef with black beans and corn for a delicious vegetarian version.
- Mexican Street Corn Topping: Add some Mexican street corn salad on top just before serving for a fresh twist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the ground beef mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to cook, layer it in the slow cooker with the other ingredients and cook as directed.
2. How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
3. Can I Use a Different Soup?
Yes, you can use cream of chicken or cream of cheddar soup instead of cream of mushroom for a different flavor.
4. What Can I Serve with This Casserole?
This casserole pairs well with a side salad, Mexican rice, or black beans. You can also serve it with extra toppings like guacamole or pico de gallo.
Slow Cooker Ground Beef Dorito Casserole is a fun and easy meal that combines all your favorite Tex-Mex flavors into one dish. With its layers of seasoned beef, creamy sauce, gooey cheese, and crunchy Doritos, it’s sure to be a hit with family and friends. Customize it to your liking, and enjoy this comforting, flavorful casserole whenever you’re craving a hearty, satisfying meal.
Happy cooking!
