Dad'S Mexican Casserole
A hearty Mexican casserole layered with seasoned ground beef, crispy Doritos, and melted Cheddar cheese, perfect for family dinners and flavorful comfort food.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef and chopped onion.
- Add the Ro-Tel tomatoes, cream of mushroom soup, and enchilada sauce to the beef mixture.
- In a 2 1/2-quart casserole dish, layer the meat mixture and Doritos, repeating until all meat is used.
- Top the casserole with grated Cheddar cheese.
- Bake at 350°F until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra kick, consider adding some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili powder to the meat mixture. You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or a plant-based meat alternative for a lighter option. If Ro-Tel tomatoes are unavailable, regular diced tomatoes with green chilies can work. Make sure to crush the Doritos slightly before layering for better distribution throughout the casserole.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole with a side of sour cream and guacamole for added creaminess. A fresh green salad or some Mexican rice pairs beautifully with this dish. You may also want to offer some Bean Dip For Taco Chips as a starter to complement the meal. It’s a crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone satisfied.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Mexican casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes or until heated through. You can also reheat it in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes. Cover with foil to prevent the cheese from burning.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Dad'S Mexican Casserole contains roughly 451 calories, with 16g protein, 31g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 774mg per serving (34% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare the casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking step. Assemble it in the casserole dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove the plastic wrap and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it's cold from the fridge.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! This casserole freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bake in the oven until heated through, or microwave individual portions directly from the freezer.
What can I use instead of Cheddar cheese?
If you want a different flavor, you can substitute Cheddar cheese with Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a spicy twist. Alternatively, a blend of Mexican cheeses can enhance the dish's flavor profile. Just ensure the cheese you choose melts well for that perfect gooey topping.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).