Go Back

Taco Bake with Doritos

A comforting and easy-to-make Taco Bake featuring ground beef, vibrant peppers, and the crunch of Doritos, perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Comfort Food, Mexican
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 lb ground beef Juicy meat forms the heart of the dish
  • 1 red bell pepper (seeded and diced) Adds color and a slightly crunchy texture
  • 1 ounce packet taco seasoning mix Infuses the dish with classic Mexican flavors
  • ⅔ cup water Essential for bringing flavors together
  • 2 ½ cups salsa Adds sweetness and tang
  • 1 can corn (drained, or about 1 cup of frozen corn) Adds sweetness and a vibrant yellow hue
  • 9.25 ounce bag Nacho Cheese flavored Doritos (coarsely crushed, about 4 cups crushed) Provides a delightful crunchy texture
  • 2 cups shredded Mexican-blend or sharp cheddar cheese Brings everything together with comfort
Optional Toppings
  • sour cream For a creamy topping
  • sliced green onion Adds freshness
  • olives For added flavor
  • diced avocado Enhances richness
  • fresh cilantro Adds brightness
  • diced red onion For an extra crunch
  • guacamole For creaminess
  • diced tomatoes For freshness
  • lime wedges To add a zesty kick
  • extra salsa For more flavor

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Prepare a 13 x 9-inch baking dish by coating it with nonstick cooking spray.
  2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and diced red bell pepper over medium-high heat until the beef is no longer pink, about 5 to 7 minutes. Drain excess grease.
  3. Add taco seasoning and water to the beef mixture and simmer for about 3 to 4 minutes, stirring frequently.
  4. Stir in the salsa and drained corn, mixing well.
Assembly
  1. Layer half of the crushed Doritos at the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
  2. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese on top, then spread the beef mixture evenly over it.
Baking
  1. Bake uncovered for about 20 minutes until hot and bubbly.
  2. Remove from the oven, sprinkle remaining cheese and crushed Doritos on top, and bake for an additional 5 minutes until cheese melts.

Notes

Substitute ground turkey for a lighter version or use black beans for a vegetarian option. Adjust spice levels by adding chili powder or jalapeños. Experiment with cheese blends.