Description
Doritos Mac and Cheese Casserole with Chicken is the ultimate comfort food, combining creamy, cheesy pasta with tender shredded chicken and a crispy, flavorful Doritos topping. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, and game nights. The combination of rich cheese sauce, seasoned chicken, and crunchy Doritos makes every bite irresistible. Plus, it’s highly customizable, allowing you to adjust the spice level, cheese blend, and protein options to fit your preferences.
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 (10 oz) can condensed cheddar cheese soup
- 1 cup milk
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups crushed Nacho Cheese Doritos
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for about a minute until slightly golden.
Gradually whisk in milk and heavy cream, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens.
Add cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
Add the cooked macaroni and shredded chicken to the sauce, mixing well to coat everything evenly.
Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Sprinkle the crushed Doritos evenly over the top, followed by the remaining cheddar cheese.
Bake for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Drizzle with sour cream and sprinkle with chopped green onions before serving.
Notes
- Best Doritos Flavor: Nacho Cheese Doritos is the classic choice, but Cool Ranch, Spicy Sweet Chili, or Flamin’ Hot work great for variety.
- Pasta Choice: Stick to elbow macaroni for traditional mac and cheese texture, or use shells, rotini, or gluten-free pasta as an alternative.
- Keep the Crunch: To maintain a crispy topping, add Doritos just before baking and avoid covering with foil.
- Make Ahead Tip: Assemble the casserole without the topping, store in the fridge for up to 24 hours, then bake fresh with crushed Doritos on top.
- Storage: Leftovers stay fresh for 3 days in the fridge or 2 months in the freezer. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best results.
- Spicy Version: Add hot sauce, jalapeños, or spicy Doritos for an extra kick.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with roasted veggies, black beans, or plant-based protein for a meat-free version.