Next, repeat the layering process. Add the crushed Doritos, the remaining meat mixture, and one final layer of cheddar cheese on top. Dollop spoonfuls of sour cream over the cheese layer and sprinkle diced tomatoes and green onions for an extra pop of color and flavor. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and pop it in the oven for about 25 minutes. After that, remove the foil and let it bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and starting to brown. Your kitchen will fill with mouth-watering aromas! Once it’s done, let it sit for a few minutes before serving; this helps everything hold together nicely.
Pro Tips for Best Results
I’ve made this casserole a few times, and one thing I’ve learned is that letting it cool for 5–10 minutes after baking makes serving much easier. If you dive right in, you’re likely to end up with a gooey mess! Also, I tested using corn tortillas instead of Doritos, and while they were tasty, the crunchy texture of Doritos is simply irreplaceable. Trust me on this one! Lastly, you can customize the spice level by choosing mild or hot salsa, depending on what your family prefers.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake I made the first time was using low-fat cheese. Let me just say, while I’m all for healthier options, low-fat cheese doesn’t melt quite the same way and can lead to a less satisfying experience. If you’re going for cheesy goodness, stick with full-fat cheese! Another issue is overloading the dish with too many toppings. It’s tempting to go wild with ingredients, but a little goes a long way—especially with the sour cream. (See the next page below to continue…)