Dorito Meatloaf Casserole (Print Version)

Layered ground beef with creamy ranch, bell peppers, mozzarella, and crunchy Doritos baked until bubbly.

# Ingredients:

Meat Mixture

01 - 1 lb extra lean ground beef
02 - 2 large eggs
03 - 1/3 cup milk
04 - 2 cups crushed Doritos (approximately two-thirds of a 9.25 oz bag)

Cream Cheese Layer

05 - 8 oz cream cheese, softened
06 - 1 oz ranch dressing mix
07 - 1 tablespoon milk

Toppings

08 - 1 cup diced green bell pepper
09 - 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
10 - 1 cup crushed Doritos (remaining from the 9.25 oz bag)

# Instructions:

01 - Set the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, eggs, 1/3 cup milk, and 2 cups crushed Doritos. Mix thoroughly by hand until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
03 - Lightly coat a 9 x 13 inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
04 - Press half of the meat mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, ensuring an even layer.
05 - In a separate bowl, blend softened cream cheese, ranch dressing mix, and 1 tablespoon milk with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
06 - Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the meat layer. Sprinkle diced bell pepper over the cream cheese, then distribute half of the shredded mozzarella evenly on top.
07 - Cover the layered ingredients by pressing the remaining meat mixture atop the casserole evenly.
08 - Place the assembled dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40 minutes, allowing the meat to cook through.
09 - Remove the casserole from the oven. Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella and 1 cup crushed Doritos evenly over the top. Return to oven and bake until cheese is fully melted, approximately 10 minutes.
10 - Allow the casserole to rest for several minutes after baking to set before slicing and serving.

# Notes:

01 - Using extra lean ground beef reduces excess fat but retains flavor; ensure the cream cheese is softened for easier mixing.