Doritos Mac and Cheese Casserole

Okay, picture this: It’s a chilly evening, you’re craving something totally comforting, but you also want something a little different, a little…unexpected. That’s exactly when this Doritos Mac and Cheese Casserole comes to the rescue! It’s like your favorite creamy, cheesy mac and cheese had a delicious, crunchy collision with everyone’s beloved Doritos. Seriously, the first time I made this, my kids went absolutely wild, and honestly, I did too. It’s way easier than making lasagna from scratch, and the cheesy, crunchy combination? Irresistible. It reminds me a bit of those loaded baked potatoes, but with a cheesy, pasta twist that is pure magic. This cheesy dream is perfect on its own or as a side. It’s comfort food at its finest and a definite crowd-pleaser!

What is a Doritos Mac and Cheese Casserole?

Think of it as your classic, go-to mac and cheese, but amped up to eleven. We’re talking perfectly cooked pasta swimming in a creamy, dreamy cheese sauce, all topped with a generous layer of crushed Doritos. It’s essentially a baked casserole that combines the creamy comfort of mac and cheese with the salty, savory crunch of Doritos. The name pretty much says it all! It’s one of those dishes where you take something familiar and give it a fun, playful twist. I mean, who doesn’t love mac and cheese? And who can resist a bag of Doritos? Marry the two, and you’ve got a culinary masterpiece…or at least, that’s what my family tells me!

Why you’ll love this recipe?

Where do I start? What I love about this Doritos Mac and Cheese Casserole is how ridiculously easy it is to make. Is it faster than ordering takeout?

Flavor Explosion:What’s the best combination of cheese and Doritos? The texture contrast is just as amazing as the taste. What is that savory umami flavor with a creamy rich sauce that will have you wanting more?
Simple Ingredients: You probably already have most of the ingredients in your pantry and fridge. No fancy, hard-to-find items here! I always have pasta and cheese on hand.
Budget FriendlyWhat is the best way to feed a crowd without breaking the bank? Can be used as a side dish or as an appetizer.
Kid-Approved:What are some of the best foods to eat with kids? I like to add a few veggies to the cheese sauce to sneak some greens into their diet, and they never have to.
Versatile:Can you customize this with different cheeses, add-ins like bacon or jalapeos? What are the different flavors of Doritos?

What is the difference between Baked Ziti and cheesy goodness? What is the best way to take a business to the next level? What is a game changer?

How do I make a Doritos Mac and Cheese Casserole?

Quick Overview

How do I make a Doritos Mac and Cheese Casserole? How do you cook pasta, whip up a creamy cheese sauce, mix it all together, top it with crushed red peppers? If you like to bake Doritos, and bake it until bubbly and golden. What is the secret to getting the cheese sauce just right? How do I get my kids to help me with the whole process? Is it perfect for a weeknight dinner?

Ingredients

For the Mac and Cheese: What are some good examples?

What is a 1 pound elbow macaroni
What is the recipe for butter?
1/2 cup all-purpose flour.
I’ve tested this with almond milk, and it actually made it even creamier!
What is the flavor of cheddar cheese?
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese. Add more cheese if desired.
1/2 teaspoon salt. 1 teaspoon pepper.
1/4 teaspoon black pepper, 1 teaspoon salt.

For the Doritos Topping:

1 (10-ounce) bag Doritos, crushed (I usually go with Nacho Cheese, but Cool Ranch is also amazing!)
2 tablespoons melted butter (this helps the Doritos get crispy! )

What are the steps to

Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. What is the best way to keep your mac and cheese from sticking to the bottom? I usually use cooking spray, but butter works too.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. You want it slightly undercooked because it will continue to cook in the oven. Drain pasta and set aside. I always add salt to pasta water to give it some extra flavor.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour until smooth. Gradually whisk in the milk until there are no lumps. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly. Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened. How do you make a creamy cheese sauce?

Step 4: Add the Cheese

What is the best way to cook the cheddar cheese and mozzarella cheese? I sometimes add a dash of garlic powder for extra flavor. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well coated. Make sure every noodle is getting some cheesy love!

Step 6: Prepare the Doritos Topping

In a medium bowl, combine the crushed Doritos with the melted butter. Toss to coat. I like to crush the Doritos in a ziplock bag with a rolling pin – it’s a great stress reliever!

Step 7: Assemble the Casserole

What is the best way to make macaroni and cheese? Pour the mixture into a baking dish. Sprinkle the crushed Doritos evenly over the top. Make sure you get those Doritos all the way to the edge. Where do they get the most golden brown?

Step 8: Bake

Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the Doritos are golden brown. Keep an eye on it so the Doritos don’t burn!

Step 9: Cool & Serve

Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. How do you set up cheese? I love to sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a pop of color.

What is the best way to serve it?

What are some good ideas for a Mac and Cheese Casserole? How can I take my business to the next level?

As a main course: As an appetizer. Serve it with a side salad or some steamed vegetables for a complete meal. A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing is a perfect counterpoint to the richness of the casserole.
As a Side Dish: Pair it with grilled chicken, burgers, or BBQ ribs. It’s a fantastic alternative to traditional mashed potatoes or coleslaw.
For a Potluck: This casserole is always a hit at potlucks and gatherings. It’s easy to transport and everyone loves it! Just be prepared to share the recipe.
Game Day: Serve it as a fun and festive snack during football games or other sporting events. It’s the ultimate comfort food for cheering on your favorite team.
Make it a meal: Add in shredded chicken, bacon bits, chopped ham, or cooked sausage for a protein boost. I like to add some cooked broccoli or peas for some extra nutrients.

Growing up, my family always had mac and cheese with a side of sliced tomatoes. Something about that simple combination just hits the spot!

Top Tips for Perfecting Your Doritos Mac and Cheese Casserole

Here are some of my best tips for making this Doritos Mac and Cheese Casserole absolutely perfect every time:

Cheese Choice: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different cheeses! Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack can add a unique twist to the flavor. I always use a combination of cheddar and mozzarella, but you can mix and match to your heart’s content.
Doritos Crunch: For maximum crunch, add the Doritos topping just before baking. If you add it too early, they might get soggy. I also like to reserve a few crushed Doritos to sprinkle on top after baking for an extra burst of flavor and texture.
Sauce Consistency: Make sure your cheese sauce is nice and smooth. If it’s too thick, add a little more milk. If it’s too thin, simmer it for a few more minutes until it thickens up. The key is to whisk constantly to prevent lumps.
Pasta Perfection: Don’t overcook the pasta! You want it to be al dente because it will continue to cook in the oven. Overcooked pasta will result in a mushy casserole.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce for a little heat. You can also use spicy Doritos for the topping for an extra kick.
Mix-Ins: Get creative with your mix-ins! Add cooked bacon, ham, jalapeños, or even some roasted vegetables for added flavor and texture. The possibilities are endless!
Make Ahead: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through.

One time, I accidentally used Sweetened Condensed Milk instead of regular milk in the cheese sauce (don’t ask!). It actually turned out surprisingly delicious, with a subtle sweetness that complemented the savory flavors perfectly. It was a happy accident!

Storing and Reheating Tips

Here’s how to properly store and reheat your leftover Doritos Mac and Cheese Casserole:

Room Temperature: I wouldn’t recommend leaving it at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
Refrigerator Storage: Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It tastes great cold, too!
Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the casserole for up to 2-3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Don’t add the Doritos until you bake!
Reheating: To reheat, bake the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick and easy meal. When reheating from frozen, bake covered in foil for about 30 minutes, then uncovered for another 15-20 to crisp up the top.

Pro tip: If you’re planning to freeze the casserole, it’s best to undercook it slightly before freezing. This will prevent it from becoming mushy when you reheat it. I like to add the Doritos topping just before baking, even when reheating from frozen. It keeps them extra crunchy!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just use gluten-free elbow macaroni and gluten-free all-purpose flour. You might need to add a little more milk to the cheese sauce to achieve the desired consistency. Also, make sure your Doritos are gluten-free, as some flavors may contain gluten.

Do I need to peel the zucchini?

I’m sorry there is no zucchini in this recipe so I think you are on the wrong recipe.

Can I make this as muffins instead?

I’m sorry I have not ever done this as a muffin, so i cannot give accurate advice on this.

How can I adjust the sweetness level?

I’m sorry there is no added sugar in this recipe so I think you are on the wrong recipe.

What can I use instead of the glaze?

I’m sorry there is no glaze in this recipe so I think you are on the wrong recipe.

Final Thoughts

This Doritos Mac and Cheese Casserole is more than just a recipe; it’s an experience! It’s that perfect blend of comfort and fun, guaranteed to bring smiles to your table. It is my go-to recipe when I am short on time. The best part is how the Doritos get extra brown on the edges! If you loved this, you might also enjoy my Bacon Mac and Cheese Casserole or my Spicy Jalapeño Popper Mac and Cheese. Let me know in the comments how it turned out for you, and if you tried any fun variations! Happy cooking!

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